Opel Rekord E (facelift ) 2.0 E (110 Hp) Automatic

The Opel Rekord E (facelift 1982) 2.0 E (110 Hp) Automatic: A European Mainstay of the Early 1980s

The Opel Rekord E (facelift 1982) 2.0 E (110 Hp) Automatic represents a significant iteration of a vehicle that was a true workhorse and family staple across Europe for decades. Produced by the German automaker Opel, a subsidiary of General Motors at the time, the Rekord series was renowned for its robust construction, practicality, and solid engineering. The E generation, introduced in 1977, received a substantial facelift in September 1982, bringing a more aerodynamic and contemporary aesthetic to the mid-size executive segment. This particular variant, the 2.0 E with its 110 horsepower engine and automatic transmission, offered a blend of comfortable cruising and respectable performance for its era, serving as a reliable choice for motorists from its production start in September 1982 until its conclusion in August 1984.

Engine and Performance of the Opel Rekord E (facelift 1982) 2.0 E (110 Hp) Automatic

At the heart of the Opel Rekord E (facelift 1982) 2.0 E Automatic was Opel’s venerable 2.0-liter (1979 cm³) inline four-cylinder engine, designated by the code 20E. This naturally aspirated powerplant featured a SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and a multi-port manifold fuel injection system, which was quite advanced for a mainstream family car of the early 1980s. This fuel injection system contributed to both improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery compared to carbureted alternatives.

The engine produced a healthy 110 horsepower at 5400 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 55.6 HP/l. Torque was rated at 119.49 lb.-ft. (162 Nm) at a relatively low 3000 rpm, providing ample pulling power for everyday driving. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission, a common offering in the market for drivers prioritizing convenience over ultimate performance. While a three-speed automatic might seem rudimentary by today’s standards, it was a perfectly acceptable and widely available option at the time, known for its durability.

Performance figures for the Rekord 2.0 E Automatic were competitive for its class. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 12.8 seconds, with a top speed of 112.47 mph (181 km/h). Fuel economy was rated at 25.8 US mpg (9.1 l/100 km) in combined driving, which was a decent figure for a mid-size sedan with an automatic transmission in the early 1980s, especially considering its kerb weight of 2590.43 lbs (1175 kg). The engine’s design, with a bore of 3.74 inches (95 mm) and a stroke of 2.75 inches (69.8 mm), along with a 9:1 compression ratio, underscored its robust and durable nature, designed for longevity and ease of maintenance.

Design and Features

The Rekord E generation underwent a significant visual overhaul with its 1982 facelift, aiming to modernize its appearance and improve aerodynamic efficiency. The original Rekord E, while practical, had a somewhat boxy design characteristic of the late 1970s. The facelift brought a sleeker front end, revised grille, updated headlights, and more integrated bumpers, contributing to a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.36. This was a notable improvement and helped the vehicle appear more contemporary alongside newer competitors.

The body style remained a traditional four-door sedan, offering seating for five passengers. Its dimensions were generous for a European mid-size car, with a length of 183.15 inches (4652 mm), a width of 67.95 inches (1726 mm), and a height of 55.91 inches (1420 mm). The wheelbase of 105.04 inches (2668 mm) contributed to a comfortable ride and stable handling. Inside, the Rekord E was known for its practicality, with a minimum trunk space of 17.3 cu. ft. (490 liters), making it suitable for family trips and daily chores. The fuel tank capacity of 17.17 US gallons (65 liters) provided a good cruising range.

In terms of chassis and safety, the Rekord E featured a conventional setup for its time. It utilized ventilated disc brakes at the front for effective stopping power, while the rear wheels were equipped with drum brakes, a common configuration that provided adequate performance for the vehicle’s weight and speed capabilities. The drivetrain architecture was traditional rear-wheel drive, offering predictable handling characteristics. The minimum turning circle of 35.43 feet (10.8 meters) made it reasonably maneuverable for its size in urban environments.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Opel Rekord E (facelift 1982) 2.0 E Automatic, like its predecessors, played a crucial role in the European automotive landscape. It was a core model for Opel, consistently ranking among the best-selling vehicles in Germany and other European markets throughout its production run. The Rekord was positioned as a reliable, spacious, and affordable executive car, catering to both private buyers seeking a comfortable family sedan and fleet operators needing a dependable company vehicle.

In its segment, the Rekord E faced stiff competition from rivals such as the Ford Sierra, Volkswagen Passat, Peugeot 505, and Renault 20/25. What set the Rekord apart was its reputation for solid build quality, straightforward mechanics, and reasonable running costs. The 1982 facelift helped it maintain its competitive edge by offering updated styling and improved aerodynamics, keeping it relevant against newer designs.

The 2.0 E engine, with its fuel injection, was particularly well-regarded for its balance of power and efficiency, making it a popular choice among those who desired a bit more refinement and performance than the base models without venturing into the more expensive six-cylinder territory. The automatic transmission further enhanced its appeal for urban commuters and those who preferred a relaxed driving experience.

While the Rekord E was never officially sold in the United States under the Opel brand, its DNA and engineering principles were present in various General Motors products globally. Its legacy is one of practicality, durability, and a quiet competence that defined a generation of European motoring. Many Rekord E models remained on the roads for well over a decade, a testament to their robust construction and ease of maintenance. Today, the Opel Rekord E is remembered as a classic example of German engineering from the early 1980s, a car that successfully blended traditional values with modern advancements to meet the evolving demands of the European market.