Here’s one you won’t see every day: a 1964 Opel Kadett station wagon, or “Estate,” as wagons are often called. Opels were once a common sight on America’s highways and byways, but it’s been years since the former GM division imported the German compact. This example, simple as it is, is in remarkably clean condition and has undergone, according to the listing, “many recent mechanical repairs.” Vermilion, Ohio, is where you’ll find it, and it’s available here on craigslist for $8,500. Kudos to Barney for surfacing this tip!
Opel stopped importing genuine branded models into the U.S. at the end of the seventies, but they did offer altered rebadges (to meet FMVSS requirements) for years to come. Opel-based models such as the Cadillac Catera, Saturn Aura, some Buick Regals, and the Buick Cascada convertible have graced our shores in more recent times. The Kadett, however, was a regular American sight from ’62 through ’72, though actual production continued until 1993. Our ’64 subject car is a Kadett “A”, which saw production between ’62 and ’65 and was available as a two-door sedan and station wagon. Popular these were, as it’s estimated that 695K were produced over the series’ four-model-year run. The seller labels this Kadett wagon as a “turnkey driver,” and it does appear to be good to go. The finish is still sound with no fade, and the chrome-plated items have a nice luster. The body panels are straight, and no rust is observed – a notable enemy for this Opel generation.
Blistering Teutonic power this Opel does not possess; instead, it finds its way with a 1.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine good for about 40 HP. The seller states that it’s “fun to drive,” but that’s it for running or driving characteristics. As stated earlier, the seller claims many recent repairs but does not elaborate. I’d suggest the fuel pump looks newish, but that’s about all that’s obvious in the engine compartment. A four-speed manual transmission was the only game in town, and that’s how this wagon rolls.
The interior is as austere as you’ll find, but it’s completely typical for this era. The fabric seats appear to have been reupholstered, and the carpet looks like a replacement for the original. The instrument panel is about as utilitarian as it gets, and the wayback area is strictly functional – nuttin’ fancy, but it’s in sound, unabused condition.
The laconic listing sums up with, “Unique vehicle that’s fun to drive and practical.” I can see that, but I wouldn’t want to consider this Kadett for everyday driving – those days are long gone! My only concern with this car is finding a buyer who’s willing to pony up $8,500 for this admittedly seldom-seen wagon. Sure, it’s unique today, but is it unique enough?
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