Approx. 900 kg - 1100 kg depending on body style and engine.
đĄïž Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test History:
Limited formal Euro NCAP data available for this era; relied on national safety standards.
Active Features
Braking System Features:
Front ventilated discs, rear drums; optional ABS on some later models.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Standard three-point seatbelts in the front.
Body Structure:
Rigid passenger safety cell with crumple zones.
đĄ Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette players were common options. Manual will cover basic head unit and speaker system maintenance.
Driver Assistance
ABS Availability:
ABS was an optional extra on higher trim levels and later models.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Basic, with no advanced connectivity options typical of modern vehicles.
đ§ Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type specified.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For many engines, replacement recommended every 50,000 - 80,000 km or 4-5 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 10W-40 or 15W-40 for older models; 5W-30 or 5W-40 for later fuel-injected versions. Manual specifies exact grades.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Opel/GM coolant recommended.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
GM Dexron II or III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Rusting in wheel arches, sills, and boot floor; minor electrical gremlins; worn suspension bushings; starter motor issues; potential head gasket failure on some engines.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carbureted models often require periodic tuning and adjustment for optimal performance and emissions.
đ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Opel Heritage:
Opel, a German automaker with a long history of producing reliable and popular vehicles for the European market.
Model Evolution
Kadett Lineage:
The Kadett E represented the fifth generation of the Kadett model line, succeeding the Kadett D.
Design Influence:
The Kadett E was styled by Erhard Schnell and featured an aerodynamic design that was significantly more modern than its predecessor.
Production
Global Production:
Produced at various General Motors plants in Europe, including Germany, Belgium, Spain, and the UK (as the Vauxhall Astra Mk2).
Sales Success:
The Kadett E was a highly successful model, becoming one of Europe's best-selling cars during its production run.
đ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car Of The Year Nominations:
The Kadett E was a strong contender in European Car of the Year awards during its launch.
Sales Awards:
Numerous sales-related accolades and rankings as one of Europe's top-selling vehicles.