Opel Rekord E Caravan 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic

The Opel Rekord E Caravan 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic: A Pillar of European Motoring

The Opel Rekord E Caravan 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic represents a significant chapter in European automotive history, embodying the practical, reliable, and family-oriented transportation needs of its era. Launched in 1978 as part of the Rekord E generation, this particular variant combined a robust diesel powertrain with the versatile station wagon (estate) body style, making it an indispensable vehicle across the continent for both private owners and fleets. While never officially sold in the United States, the Rekord E Caravan played a crucial role in Opel’s lineup, serving as a mid-size segment leader and a testament to German engineering for durability and utility. Its production run from 1978 to 1982 saw it become a familiar sight on European roads, prized for its spacious interior, ample cargo capacity, and economical diesel operation.

The Rekord E, which succeeded the Rekord D, was a thoroughly modernized design for its time, featuring improved aerodynamics and a more contemporary aesthetic. The Caravan (station wagon) version, in particular, was designed with practicality at its core, offering significant hauling capabilities that were essential for families and businesses alike. The 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic model, with its diesel engine and convenient automatic transmission, offered a compelling package of fuel efficiency and ease of driving, albeit with a performance profile typical of diesel vehicles from that period. This article delves into the technical specifics, design philosophy, and lasting legacy of this quintessential European family hauler.

Engine & Performance of the Opel Rekord E Caravan 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic

At the heart of the Opel Rekord E Caravan 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic was Opel’s naturally aspirated 2.3-liter (2260 cm3 or 137.91 cu. in.) inline-four diesel engine, designated with the model code 23D. This powerplant was engineered for reliability and fuel economy, priorities that were paramount for European buyers in the late 1970s and early 1980s, especially in the wake of the oil crises. The engine produced a modest 65 horsepower at 4200 rpm, delivering its peak torque of 93.67 lb.-ft. (127 Nm) at a relatively low 2500 rpm. This low-end torque characteristic was ideal for a utility-focused vehicle like the Caravan, aiding in pulling power and making it feel less strained under load.

The engine featured a SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, a common and robust design for the era. Its precombustion chamber injection system was typical for naturally aspirated diesels of the period, contributing to its renowned durability and ability to run on various qualities of diesel fuel. With a high compression ratio of 22:1, the engine was designed for efficient combustion.

Power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a 3-speed automatic transmission. While modern automatics boast many more gears, this 3-speed unit provided a smooth, if not particularly rapid, driving experience. Performance figures reflect the car’s utilitarian nature: acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 27.6 seconds, and its top speed was around 82 mph (132 km/h). These numbers might seem sluggish by today’s standards, but for a family station wagon with a diesel engine in the late 70s, they were perfectly adequate for cruising on European highways and navigating city traffic. The combined fuel economy was a respectable 25 US mpg (9.4 l/100 km), highlighting the diesel’s advantage in efficiency over its gasoline counterparts at the time.

Design & Features of the Opel Rekord E Caravan

The Rekord E Caravan was a quintessential example of functional European design from its period. Its body type, a station wagon (known as an “estate” in many European markets), was designed for maximum practicality. Available with either three or five doors, it offered seating for five occupants, making it a versatile family vehicle. The exterior dimensions were substantial for its class: 181.89 inches (4620 mm) in length, 67.95 inches (1726 mm) in width, and 57.87 inches (1470 mm) in height, all riding on a 105.04-inch (2668 mm) wheelbase. These dimensions contributed to a spacious cabin and, crucially, an impressive cargo area.

The design language of the Rekord E was clean and straightforward, prioritizing visibility and ease of use. While not overtly styled for aerodynamic prowess, its drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.48 was typical for a family car of its size and era. Inside, the focus was on durability and straightforward ergonomics. Materials were chosen for their hard-wearing properties, designed to withstand the rigors of family life and commercial use.

One of the Rekord E Caravan’s most compelling features was its cavernous trunk space, offering a minimum of 31.11 cu. ft. (881 liters). This made it an ideal choice for carrying luggage, groceries, or commercial goods. The rear bench seat could be folded down, further expanding the loading area, a critical aspect for its market segment. Other practical considerations included a substantial 18.49 US gallon (70 liter) fuel tank, providing a decent cruising range for long journeys across the continent. The vehicle’s kerb weight was 2843.96 lbs (1290 kg), with a maximum permissible weight of 4166.74 lbs (1890 kg), allowing for a considerable maximum load of 1322.77 lbs (600 kg). Its ability to tow trailers, with permitted loads of 2755.78 lbs (1250 kg) with brakes and 1444.03 lbs (655 kg) without, further underscored its utility. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear, a common setup for cars of this class and period, offering adequate stopping power.

Technical Specifications: Opel Rekord E Caravan 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic

Legacy & Market Impact

The Opel Rekord E Caravan 2.3 D (65 Hp) Automatic, like its Rekord predecessors, solidified Opel’s reputation as a manufacturer of dependable, practical, and affordable family cars in Europe. In its primary markets, the Rekord E competed fiercely with other European mid-size vehicles such as the Ford Granada, Volkswagen Passat (though often a class below in some markets), and even the more premium offerings from Mercedes-Benz (W123) and BMW (5 Series) for customers seeking durability and space. However, the Rekord positioned itself as a more accessible and utilitarian choice, often favored by middle-class families, small businesses, and government fleets.

The diesel variant, in particular, gained significant traction due to its superior fuel economy and the rising cost of gasoline during the late 1970s and early 1980s. While not a performance machine, its robust engine and straightforward automatic transmission offered a comfortable and low-stress driving experience, particularly for long-distance cruising. The Rekord E Caravan became synonymous with reliability and longevity, with many examples serving faithfully for decades. Its ability to carry substantial loads and tow trailers made it an invaluable tool for many, cementing its status as a true workhorse.

The Rekord E’s legacy is one of quiet competence rather than groundbreaking innovation. It represented the evolution of Opel’s core values: building solid, honest, and practical cars that met the everyday needs of a broad customer base. While it might not possess the exotic allure of some of its contemporaries, its enduring presence on European roads long after its production ceased spoke volumes about its quality and fitness for purpose. Today, the Opel Rekord E Caravan is remembered fondly as a classic European family car, a testament to a bygone era of automotive design where utility and resilience were paramount. Its contribution to Opel’s success and its role in shaping the European automotive landscape of the late 20th century are undeniable, making it a significant model for enthusiasts and historians alike.