The Opel Commodore B Coupe 2.8 SC, produced between 1973 and 1975, represented a refined iteration of Opel’s flagship coupe. Positioned as a stylish and relatively affordable grand tourer, the Commodore B Coupe aimed to deliver a blend of performance and comfort. This 2.8 SC variant, equipped with a 2.8-liter straight-six engine producing 130 horsepower, occupied a middle ground within the Commodore B Coupe lineup, offering a step up in performance from the smaller displacement engines while remaining more accessible than the later, more powerful versions. It was a key model in Opel’s strategy to compete in the European coupe market, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty yet practical vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Commodore |
| Generation | Commodore B Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 2.8 SC (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1973 |
| End of production | 1975 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp, 109.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 173.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 46.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 3800 rpm (151.94 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | 28SC |
| Engine displacement | 2784 cm3 (169.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69.8 mm (2.75 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1190 kg (2623.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1615 kg (3560.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 434 l (15.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4607 mm (181.38 in.) |
| Width | 1728 mm (68.03 in.) |
| Height | 1370 mm (53.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2668 mm (105.04 in.) |
| Front track | 1434 mm (56.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.45 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Commodore B Coupe 2.8 SC was the 28SC engine, a 2.8-liter (2784 cc) inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a carburetor, a common setup for the era, though less efficient than fuel injection. The engine produced 130 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 206 Nm (151.94 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine’s bore and stroke measured 92 mm x 69.8 mm, respectively, and it operated with a compression ratio of 9.5:1. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels. While an automatic transmission was available on other Commodore B models, the 2.8 SC was primarily offered with the manual gearbox, emphasizing a more driver-focused experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.8 SC offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the Commodore B Coupes equipped with smaller engines. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.9 seconds, and it could achieve a top speed of around 114.33 mph. The manual transmission allowed for precise control over the engine’s power band, making it enjoyable to drive on winding roads. However, the carburetor-fed engine lacked the responsiveness of fuel-injected counterparts. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance between acceleration and cruising comfort. Compared to the later, more powerful Commodore GS/E models, the 2.8 SC felt less urgent, but it provided a more manageable and fuel-efficient driving experience. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced handling characteristic, though it required careful throttle control in slippery conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Commodore B Coupe 2.8 SC was generally well-equipped for its time. Standard features included comfortable cloth upholstery, a wood-trimmed dashboard, and a comprehensive instrument cluster. Power steering and front disc brakes were also standard. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and leather upholstery. The interior design was characterized by a functional and stylish layout, reflecting the coupe’s grand touring aspirations. The 2.8 SC trim level typically sat above the base models but below the more luxurious and performance-oriented GS/E variants.
Chassis & Braking
The Commodore B Coupe utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction. The suspension consisted of independent front suspension with coil springs and a rigid rear axle with leaf springs. The front brakes were discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. The suspension setup was tuned for a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over outright handling precision. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The curb weight of approximately 2623.5 lbs contributed to the car’s overall handling balance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Commodore B Coupe 2.8 SC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and respectable performance. However, some critics noted that the carburetor-fed engine lacked the refinement of fuel-injected alternatives. Compared to other coupes in its class, such as the Ford Capri and the BMW 2002, the Commodore B Coupe offered a compelling combination of value and practicality. The 2.8 SC variant provided a good balance between performance and fuel economy, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a versatile grand tourer. Reliability was generally good, though carburetor maintenance could be required periodically.
Legacy
The Opel Commodore B Coupe 2.8 SC remains a popular classic car today, particularly among enthusiasts of 1970s European automobiles. The 28SC engine, while not the most powerful in the Commodore B lineup, is known for its durability and relative simplicity. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of owners and suppliers exists to support the preservation of these vehicles. The Commodore B Coupe 2.8 SC represents a significant chapter in Opel’s history, embodying the brand’s commitment to producing stylish, comfortable, and capable automobiles. Well-maintained examples command a respectable price in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and historical significance.
