Opel Kapitän P2
The American-styled flagship that brought Detroit luxury to the German Autobahn.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$28k
About the Opel Kapitän P2
The Opel Kapitän P2 arrived in 1959, featuring a more restrained 'keyhole' roofline compared to its panoramic-windowed predecessor, the P1. It was powered by a smooth 2.6-litre straight-six engine, which provided effortless cruising capabilities suited for the expanding German motorway network. While its styling was heavily influenced by General Motors' American design language, its dimensions and handling were tailored for European roads. Today, it is remembered as a symbol of the West German 'Wirtschaftswunder' (economic miracle) and remains a popular, robust entry-point into six-cylinder classic car ownership.
Opel Kapitän P2 specs
The Opel Kapitän P2 produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | Opel |
|---|---|
| Model | Kapitän |
| Generation | P2 |
| Trim | 2.6 |
| Years | 1959–1963 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 2.6-litre inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,605 cc (2.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 4,100 rpm |
| Torque | 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,310 kg (2,888 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 69 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Opel Kapitän P2 worth?
A typical Opel Kapitän P2 is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $28,000 (about £6,000 – £21,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Opel Kapitän P2 rarity in CarSpot
The Opel Kapitän P2 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Opel Kapitän P2 fun facts
- The P2 was the last Opel Kapitän to be offered with a factory-built four-door cabriolet conversion, though these were extremely rare and produced by coachbuilders like Autenrieth.
- Despite its American look, the P2 was a massive success in Germany, often outselling its contemporary Mercedes-Benz rivals in the six-cylinder segment during the early 1960s.
- The 2.6-litre engine featured an oversquare design, which was relatively modern for the time, allowing for better sustained high-speed cruising on the Autobahn.