Learn me: Opel GT

I almost always first scan posts for photos. Where's the photos?

That's what she wants. I find it incredible that we both want the SAME old car. The rapture or the zombie apocalypse must be on the horizon.

Keith wrote:

nderwater wrote: File Under: Relevant to Our Interests Keith - Has anyone compiled a list of classics which the Miata subframe & driveline is a good fit for?

The Opel GT has a super-stumpy transmission, that's a challenge. But most engines seem to be fairly close in size. BMC A-Series being the big notable exception.

The stumpy transmission would lead me towards a GM 60 degree V6 out of a S10. Very close coupled shifter.

I'd shoot for an Ecotec and a Colorado trans for shifter position with maybe the gearing from a Solstice. (Or do the same with Ford parts: Cosworth Duratec and ranger trans )

Don't care for the sidepipes, the wheels or even the color but mang this really got my attention when I was messing with mine. I would go red (think Miata color code SU or 'Classic Red'), biscuit interior, no sidepipes and a set of Minilites or the American Racing wheels that were used on the BRE Datsuns, I forget what they were called.

http://www.priceofhistoys.com/category/roadster-conversion/

I think that roadster in miata red with a black stripe would be awesumsauce.

I agree the sidepipe has to go

This pops up while I'm on a business trip without computer access and I see it when I come home. Yeah, only access to cargo area is from passenger area, not a hatchback or trunk. Biggest downfall of the car. Yes, typical rust for German car of the era. As stated before, under the nose is most susceptible to rust and damage. As for engine swaps, lots of GTs went to the boneyard because someone got over ther head trying one. As said, will need a subframe to accomplish. Smaller engines fit better with less modifying. Some cut out the heater on passenger side and/or reduce driver footwell to make room for bigger engine. Unibody that is one piece, only the doors and hood unbolt. Oh yeah, headlights remove also. The rest is either one piece or welded. V8 are usually to tall and the brake booster which has a rod inside a brace from firewall to radiator support where the booster is located (in front). Also often requires stretching the front as most of the drag cars have. Popular swaps are other bigger Opel engines (from Germany), rotary, other 4-bangers and some V6's. Yeah replacing the front leaf spring with some type of coilovers would help in a lot of ways, more room for swap and better suspension would make it handle better. Bigger engine also would mean a better rear end would be needed. The 1.9 Cam-In-Head engine hotrods easily for more power and there are options for 5-speed, German Getrag or early S-10 is popular because the cable operated clutch works with those. Doesn't require modifying to hydraulic. Early BMW wheels fit, I think 318 or 320. No power steering, fine when moving but tough when slow or stopped. Parts are still available for these. Opel GT Source is a good source and they're good people too. Better viewed in something besides (microsoft) Internet Explorer. I use Firefox and it works great, some wierd things in IE occur. OpelGT.com is a wealth of knowledge also. Pics of my GT build

Have thought sitting a GT body on a Miata chassis and flaring the fenders appropriately would be awesome. Timeless old school looks with modern power, handling and braking.