Vauxhall Kadett C
The final rear-wheel-drive Kadett and a cornerstone of GM's global T-Car project.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.2 s
- Top speed
- 88 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$14k
About the Vauxhall Kadett C
The Kadett C was Opel's iteration of the General Motors T-Car platform, a 'world car' designed for simplicity and global production. As the last small rear-wheel-drive Opel, it is prized by enthusiasts for its balanced handling and mechanical purity compared to the front-drive models that followed. The 1.2 S was the mainstay of the range, offering a high-compression version of the reliable OHV engine that balanced economy with respectable performance for the era. While the Vauxhall Chevette served as its British sibling, the Opel-badged Kadett remained a distinct and popular import in the UK, particularly in Coupé and Saloon forms.
Vauxhall Kadett C specs
The Vauxhall Kadett C produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.2 seconds and has a top speed of 88 mph (142 km/h).
| Make | Vauxhall |
|---|---|
| Model | Kadett |
| Generation | C |
| Trim | 1.2 S |
| Years | 1973–1979 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 1.2-litre OHV inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,196 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 16.2 s |
| Top speed | 88 mph (142 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 785 kg (1,731 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 76 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Vauxhall Kadett C worth?
A typical Vauxhall Kadett C is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $14,000 (about £3,400 – £10,000).
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
Vauxhall Kadett C rarity in CarSpot
The Vauxhall Kadett C is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 22 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.
Vauxhall Kadett C fun facts
- The Kadett C was the basis for the first-ever Opel hatchback, the 'City', which used the rear bodywork developed by Vauxhall for the Chevette.
- Over 1.7 million units were produced in just six years, with more than half of all German-built Kadett Cs being exported.
- The platform was so versatile it was sold globally under dozens of names, including the Holden Gemini in Australia and the Chevrolet Chevette in the US.
