1971 Opel GT

An Opel GT built to competition specification for classic endurance racing and hillclimbing, powered by a period 2.4-litre CIH engine producing around 180 bhp with Risse Motorsports components, twin 45DCOE Weber carburettors, and a Tony Law exhaust. The car was thoroughly overhauled and prepared by an experienced former Formula 1 mechanic, with a five-speed ZF gearbox, LSD rear axle, uprated suspension, roll cage, and full safety equipment. It has competed in the CSSC 'Swinging Sixties' series and hillclimbs in France and the Channel Islands.
Ownership
- 2016-02-26Auction saleEstimate £15,000 – £20,000
- Date unknownAcquisition unknownCurrent vendorpartial documentation
The vendor commissioned a comprehensive mechanical and safety overhaul, employing a former 1970s Formula 1 race mechanic to carry out the work, bringing the car to full competition readiness.
Competition
- —CSSC Swinging SixtiesCSSC 'Swinging Sixties' series
The car participated in classic endurance racing events run under this CSSC-organised series.
- —Hillclimb events in France
The car competed in hillclimb events held in France; specific events not identified in the prose.
- —Hillclimb events in the Channel Islands
The car also took part in hillclimbs in the Channel Islands; specific events not identified in the prose.
Maintenance & restoration
- 2015Inspection
Plumbed-in fire extinguisher system inspected and certified as serviceable.
- —Restoration
Comprehensive preparation and overhaul to full competition standard, carried out by a former 1970s Formula 1 race mechanic. Work encompassed engine, drivetrain, braking, suspension, fuel, cooling, safety systems, and electrical systems.
Commissioned by the current vendor. The extent of work is detailed across multiple systems as described in the catalogue.
- —Engine rebuild
Period 2.4-litre CIH engine built with Risse Motorsports components including a performance camshaft, custom pistons, lightweight flywheel, and racing clutch, all dynamically balanced. Twin 45DCOE Weber carburettors fitted along with a custom Tony Law race exhaust, yielding approximately 180 bhp.
- —Mechanical
Braking system upgraded with larger front discs and appropriate calipers, new Mintex 1144 pads, and larger-than-standard rear drums with servo assistance. Clutch operation converted to hydraulic actuation. Five-speed ZF gearbox with short-throw shift retained in good condition.
- —Mechanical
Suspension comprehensively uprated with high-grade springs, polyurethane bushes, competition anti-roll bars, and Koni competition dampers fitted all round. Bespoke radiator with switchable electric fan and large oil cooler installed; cockpit-controlled cold-air feed to carburettor and inlet area added for thermal management.
- —Maintenance
Custom 80-litre foam-filled fuel tank fabricated and installed with twin Facet fuel pumps on independent switches feeding a pressure-adjustable filter assembly.
- —MaintenanceCustom Cages
Roll cage fitted by Custom Cages; Ridgard Classic race seat and harness installed with belt certification valid to end of 2016; plumbed-in fire suppression system installed and tested in 2015; battery isolator and fire-safety pull cables added to rear of car.
- —Maintenance
Entire wiring loom renewed and reconfigured for competition use, with new dashboard instruments, a console-mounted switch panel, and individual circuit fusing throughout.
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