BUICK DIVISION EXPANDS ITS OPEL LINE OF IMPORTS

Florida Automotive Journal
December 1970

Buick Motor Division today announced it eas expanding its Opel line of imports for 1971 to include the new 1900 series which features its own distinctive styling, including dual headlights and longer hood on coupe models, wider tread both front the rear, and power brakes with front discs as standard equipment.

All four models in the 1900 series and the Opel GT sports coupe will be powered by the 1.9 liter engine which has been equipped with hydraulic valve lifters for quieter operation.  This engine, which carries an SAE rating of 90 gross horsepower, also is available as an option most other models in the Opel line.

The four models in the series, all 1900 two-doors, include a sedan, a station wagon, a sport coupe and a Rallye coupe.

This will bring to 10 the total number of models in the Opel line, the largest assortment of body styles offered since the German import was first introduced by Buick dealers in 1964.

Included in the 10 models is a four-door Opel sedan, marking the first time a four door Opel sedan will be marketed in this country since 1966.

The Opel line has shown remarkable growth since its introduction into the United States in 1964 with sales of 14,788 units through some 500 Buick - Opel dealers the first year.  At the present time there are approximately 2,100 Buick - Opel dealers and 1970 calendar year sales are expected to exceed 92,000 units.

The 1900 coupe and Rallye coupe feature in addition to the longer hood, a short rear deck with the roofing blending tastefully into the rear surface, creating a sports car feeling.  Front door windows are one piece.  Dual sealed beam head - lamps, along with a bold blacked-out grille in a horizontal theme, are featured on the 1900 models.  The rear styling features large tail lamps and back up lights with a wide rear window.

The two 1900 coupes have front bucket seats with perforated vinyl inserts.  All instruments are new for 1971 with improved serviceability as a feature.

The 1900 station wagon and two-door sedan have a more formal styling, highlighted by single headlamps and bright aluminum grille.

Two engines are offered, the 1.9 engine which is standard on all models in the 1900 series as well as the popular Opel GT, and the 1.1 liter which is standard on all other models.  The 1.1 liter engine carries an SEA gross horsepower rating of 56.  Compression ratio for all engines is 7.6 to 1.