1974 Opel Ascona Injection 1.9 E

Summary:

265k miles with a 1900cc engine and and no end in sight

Faults:

Rear quarter panels started rusting and the radiator failed once. The seats virtually disintegrated in the Texas heat.

General Comments:

Most fun to drive Opel I ever owned. Parts are cheap and the car is gas efficient with about 22-25miles per gallon. Interest groups for pre-1975 Opel are decently organized and you will meet very helpful folks.

Just do not expect any dealer support, especially in the USA. I tried to get a key remade at a Buick dealership and they refused to make it (I brought even an original blank), stating they service only what Buick sold. I got a good laugh, but no key.

If you can do body work yourself then this is the car for you. Easy to work on, easy to transform into a race car. Sadly there will be no survivor out there that does not need some rust prevention now and again.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th December, 2004

18th Dec 2004, 06:24

Why have you put the car review is from Germany when in fact its America?

20th Dec 2004, 09:19

The Opels imported from Germany to the US did not get injection until the 1975 (and final) model year.

My experience with Opels is the same as regards the rust and interior not holding up in heat, however. Both were weak points on these cars. Since it has been almost 30 years since the last ones were sold new in the US, it is now almost impossible to find any in salvage yards. An Opel enthusiasts group, or ebay, is about your only option for body and trim parts.

Forget Buick dealers, there is probably no one there who even still remembers them!

15th Jul 2007, 20:18

I love my 1975 fuel injected Opel Ascona (1900) Wagon. The reason I bought it was because I was a mechanic at a Buick dealer in the late 70's. When I had the opportunity to pick up this rare car, I jumped on it. Yes, it has the typical high running temperature, and the rusting out battery box. However, after cleaning up the fuel system, and installing a rebuilt higher compression engine, this little car scoots! I'm not sure, but I think it's the only remaining running Ascona wagon in California. Anybody else got one?

Mike.

20th Jan 2008, 17:23

Slightly confused here - you have a 30 year old car and you're wondering why a main dealer doesn't sell parts for them???