Classic cars with history: Opel Calibra

The Opel Calibra is one of those cars that left a mark on quite a few of us, as well as many fond memories from the 1990s. One of the only 2+2 coupés that anyone had even a slight chance of buying, with unmatched style and a genuinely good driving quality, comparable to that of today’s Opel.

The Calibra began as a spin-off of the Opel Vectra and as the successor to the Manta. It was presented in 1989 and remained in production until 1997, using 1.8-litre petrol engines, the well-known two-litre 16-valve unit that later received a turbocharger (and 4×4), and the spectacular V6, which the author once had the opportunity to test and which was literally like a plane. However, it was not as fast as the Calibra Turbo.

Among its best features, besides the engines, we can say without any doubt that the Calibra’s design line drew everyone’s attention on the street, as few cars did in those days. The aerodynamic exterior line did not prevent it from being comfortable for passengers, compared with other 2+2 coupés.

The only thing I can criticise about the Calibra is the suspension, a little firm for driving over the punishing Spanish streets, although it was welcome on well-maintained road surfaces.

After the Calibra ended its commercial life in 1997, it was one of the main candidates to become one of the unfortunate victims of tuning. For this reason, even today there are still many good Calibras covered in spoilers and other similar accessories.

Such was the quality of the Calibra that the Opel Astra took two years to arrive, after almost 240,000 units of the Calibra had left production.

Can it be said that the decline of Opel began with the departure of the Calibra? Possibly yes, since it was one of the most beautiful Opel models ever remembered.

Via | Highmotor