Opel Kadett (1973-79)

The Opel Kadett (1973-1979) had a few common faults that owners often encountered:

1. **Rust**: This was a significant issue, especially in the body panels and undercarriage.
2. **Engine Problems**: Smaller engines were known to be rough, and there were issues with the camshaft in some models.
3. **Cooling System**: Problems with the cooling system were not uncommon, leading to overheating.

Despite these faults, the Kadett was known for being economical and great to drive.
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Generations
The Opel Kadett has gone through several generations over its production span:

1. **Kadett I (1936-1940)**: The first generation, produced before World War II.
2. **Kadett A (1962-1965)**: The post-war revival of the Kadett.
3. **Kadett B (1965-1973)**: A larger and more modern version.
4. **Kadett C (1973-1979)**: Known for its rear-wheel-drive layout.
5. **Kadett D (1979-1984)**: The first front-wheel-drive Kadett.
6. **Kadett E (1984-1991)**: The final generation before it was succeeded by the Opel Astra.
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Trim Levels
The Opel Kadett C (1973-1979) was available in several trim levels:

1. **Standard**: The base model with essential features.
2. **Kadett L**: Offered additional comfort and equipment.
3. **Kadett Berlina**: Introduced in May 1977, featuring the larger 1.6-litre "S" engine and enhanced trim and equipment.
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Engines
The Opel Kadett C (1973-1979) was available with a variety of engines:

1. **993 cc OHV I4**: Producing around 40 hp.
2. **1196 cc OHV I4**: Producing around 60 hp.
3. **1584 cc CIH I4**: Producing around 75 hp.
4. **1897 cc CIH I4**: Available in some sporty models.
5. **1979 cc CIH I4**: Available in later models.
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Performance
The Opel Kadett GT/E (1975-1979) was known for its impressive performance for the time. Here are some key performance figures:

- **Engine**: 1.9-litre cam-in-head engine, later expanded to 2.0 litres.
- **Power**: Initially 105 bhp, later models had 115 bhp.
- **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph in around 9.0 seconds.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 110-118 mph.

The Kadett GT/E was praised for its excellent handling and roadholding, making it a desirable model both then and now.
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Spares
You can find spare parts for the Opel Kadett (1973-1979) at several online stores in the UK and Ireland:

1. **[AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/opel-kadett-carparts)**: Offers a wide range of parts for various Kadett models.
2. **[AutoDoc](https://www.auto-doc.ie/spares/opel/kadett/kadett-c)**: Provides affordable spare parts for the Kadett C.
3. **[EU-Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/opel/kadett/kadett-c-coupe)**: Specializes in parts for the Kadett C Coupe.
4. **[Car-Parts.ie](https://www.car-parts.ie/car-brands/opel/kadett-c-parts)**: Another option for finding the spare parts you need.
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Specialists
There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can help with your Opel Kadett (1973-1979):

1. **[RMS Motoring Forum](https://rmsmotoring.com/forum/threads/79-opel-kadett-c-build-built-show-smash-to-road-rocket.226075/page-8)**: This forum has a community of classic car enthusiasts who can recommend local garages and services.
2. **[Classic & Sports Car](https://www.classicandsportscar.com/guides/classic-cars-a-to-z/opel-kadett-1973-79)**: They have a directory of classic car specialists, including those who work on Opel Kadetts.
3. **[Honest John Classics](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/opel/kadett-c/specs/)**: They provide reviews and recommendations for classic car services.
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Racing
The Opel Kadett C (1973-1979) did compete in racing events. It was particularly popular in rallying and circuit racing due to its rear-wheel-drive layout and lightweight design. Here are some highlights:

1. **Rallying**: The Kadett C was used in various rally events, including the San Marino Rally, where it achieved notable success.
2. **Circuit Racing**: The Kadett C GT/E was a popular choice for circuit racing, especially in Group 2 and Group 4 categories.

Opel did release special editions of the Kadett C specifically for motorsport:

1. **Opel Kadett C GT/E**: This was a high-performance version with a 1.9-litre engine, later expanded to 2.0 litres, producing up to 115 bhp.
2. **Opel Kadett C Coupé Gr.4**: This model was built to Group 4 racing specifications, featuring a 2.0-litre engine with up to 260 hp.

These special editions were designed to excel in rallying and circuit racing, making them popular choices among motorsport enthusiasts.

There are a few famous drivers associated with the Opel Kadett C in motorsport:

1. **Walter Röhrl**: A legendary rally driver who had success with the Kadett C GT/E, particularly in events like the Monte Carlo Rally and the Portugal Rally.
2. **Rauno Aaltonen**: Another renowned rally driver who competed with the Kadett C GT/E alongside Walter Röhrl.
3. **Chris Esser**: CEO of PROsport Racing, who has raced with the Kadett C Coupé Gr.4 in events like the ADAC 1000 km race.

These drivers helped to cement the Kadett C's reputation in the world of motorsport.
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