Opel Rekord C
The 'Coke-bottle' Opel that brought American style to the European middle class.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$15k
About the Opel Rekord C
The Rekord C was a massive commercial success for Opel, famously introducing the 'Coke-bottle' waistline inspired by contemporary GM design in the United States. It featured the 'Cam-In-Head' (CIH) engine series, which placed the camshaft in the cylinder head to allow for a lower bonnet profile while retaining simple pushrod-actuated valves. The 1.9-litre 'S' variant was the most popular performance choice for the four-cylinder models, offering respectable cruising speeds for the Autobahn. Its robust mechanicals and simple live-axle rear suspension made it a reliable, if conventional, family car that defined West German roads in the late 1960s.
Opel Rekord C specs
The Opel Rekord C produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 146 Nm (108 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Opel |
|---|---|
| Model | Rekord |
| Generation | C |
| Trim | 1.9 |
| Years | 1966–1971 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 1.9-litre CIH inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,897 cc (1.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 5,100 rpm |
| Torque | 146 Nm (108 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,025 kg (2,260 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 88 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 Rekord C worth?
A typical Opel Rekord C is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $15,000 (about £3,700 – £11,000).
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 Rekord C rarity in CarSpot
The Opel Rekord C 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 Rekord C fun facts
- The Rekord C's styling was so successful that it served as the basis for the first-generation Chevrolet Opala in Brazil, which remained in production until 1992.
- A high-performance version called the 'Black Widow' was famously raced by Niki Lauda early in his career.
- It was the first Opel Rekord to feature a dual-circuit braking system and a collapsible steering column for improved safety.