1978 Opel Buick-Opel

Kadett C Coupe

4 - Cyl.

Manual

4T77B88702685

Gasoline

In 1976, General Motors stopped importing German Opels, and began importing an Isuzu-built version of the Opel Kadett C. The body shell and suspension were virtually the same as the Kadett C (in fact, many suspension parts are also interchangeable with the Chevy Chevette and The Pontiac Fiero). The engine and transmission came from the Isuzu P'up, later the Chevy S-10. The engine is a 1.8 liter unit with a cast iron block and aluminum cross-flow cylinder head. The transmission is a standard 4-speed. Spare parts have been surprisingly easy to find and cheap, too. It really feels like a Germany-meets-Japan car; good solid body, handles well and the mechanicals are smooth and reliable. I've spent many years with German Opels and always swore I'd never drive the Isuzu copy, but I'm glad I've owned this one and have thoroughly enjoyed it. I picked this car up six years ago after it had spent time in storage. The mileage (46,5XX) is genuine. The gas tank was pulled and treated with POR-15 sealer, and a NOS fuel pump was installed. I also replaced the shocks, many brake lines, the brake rotors and calipers, the rear wheel cylinders and shoes, the radiator, water pump, radiator hoses and heater hoses. Replaced the lube in the axle and transmission with synthetic. The original carburetor has been rebuilt and functions perfectly. After the initial rehabilitation I've used the car as a daily driver to work (25 mile round trip) every summer. It always starts right up, idles and drives perfectly. It has good power and will easily cruise at 80+ mph. It's fun to drive; handles and stops well. The original AM radio still works. The back-up light don't work, everything else does. The heater blows very hot, the 3-speed fan works well. The emission control air-pump still works. And 30+ miles per gallon has been a real treat. The interior is in tremendous shape for a car this age, due to the low miles. I'd like to keep this car but I have too many projects to tend to. I originally hoped to repair the minor rust under the rocker panels and behind the wheels (see the pictures), and give it a paint job. It has been repainted some time in its life; the paint is in serviceable condition. The minor rust hasn't gotten worse in the years I've driven it. I will include replacement rocker panels I purchased some years ago. I believe this car has a good number of miles left in it. The engine runs 80+ psi oil pressure when cold, and holds 60 psi when warm and cruising. The tranny and axle are smooth and quiet. I've driven it on some 200+ mile trips and never had any problems. However, there are no guarantees with a 33 year old car, so the new owner may want to arrange transport if the car will be traveling cross-country. On May-16-11 at 17:48:00 PDT, seller added the following information: Driving around town tonight, noted a couple things. The gas gauge seems to be working intermittently; should be a simple fix. I'll try to get it working. Also, forgot to mention the clutch has always been a little grabby. Has been since I bought it. Not bad, never gets worse, and it certainly doesn't slip, but I didn't want the new owner to think I was hiding anything.