Opel Admiral classic cars for sale

Introduction and history of the Opel Admiral

Introduced in 1937, the Opel Admiral was the pinnacle of Opel’s luxury segment before World War II, targeting buyers seeking a prestigious alternative to brands like Horch or Mercedes-Benz. The Admiral was first launched at the Berlin Motor Show and remained in production until 1939, interrupted by the war. During this period, some units were repurposed for military and service duties, including as ambulances and staff cars. After a long pause, the Admiral lineage was reborn in 1964, inserted between the Kapitän and Diplomat within the newly created KAD (Kapitän-Admiral-Diplomat) series. This period extended until 1977, shaping the Admiral as a bridge between tradition and modernity in Opel's upper-class offering.

Model history

The pre-war Admiral offered a 3.6-litre straight-six with 75 hp, available as a saloon, Pullman, and cabriolet, including exceedingly rare variants by Hebmüller. Post-1964, the Admiral A became the most produced member of the KAD-A trio from 1964–1968, powered primarily by six-cylinder engines between 100–140 hp and, less commonly, Chevrolet-derived V8 engines. The facelifted KAD B version (1969–1977) introduced Bosch electronic fuel injection and refined the line’s visual appeal, moving away from American cues. The model's ultimate discontinuation in 1977 marked the withdrawal of Opel from the luxury segment, leaving the Diplomat as the sole survivor for a brief period.

Highlights of the Opel Admiral

The Admiral stands out for its harmonious blend of comfort, advanced technology for its era, and generous space. Early models featured separate chassis and body construction, a three-speed transmission, and oval headlights. Postwar generations introduced amenities such as power steering, three-speed automatic, crank-operated sunroofs, rear speakers, and abundant boot capacity. Collector interest is particularly strong in rarer configurations such as the Hebmüller Cabriolet or Royal special editions. The model's distinct standing within Opel’s line-up is highlighted by the fact that Admiral KAD B comprises approximately 54.5% of supply and 53.9% of viewing demand among Admiral listings, making it the most represented and sought-after Admiral variant, followed by the Admiral KAD A with 36.4% of supply and 45.3% of viewing demand.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Cabriolet variants, especially those built by Hebmüller, are exceptionally rare, with as few as 12 believed constructed. These feature rear-hinged doors ("suicide doors") and split windshields, distinguishing early models. The 'Royal' edition, primarily in the 1970s, was equipped with elevated trim, power steering, automatic transmission, and six-cylinder engines with up to 145 hp. Both variants are particularly prized among connoisseurs and hard to find in original configuration.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The early Admiral’s 3.6-litre straight-six delivered 75 hp, exceptional for its era, enabling steady motorway cruising at up to 132 km/h. Post-1964, the six-cylinder engines—ranging from 100 to 165 hp—provided ample torque for the substantial saloon body. American-sourced V8 options saw only marginal uptake among buyers, partly due to thermal stress issues under sustained high-speed runs. The inclusion of power steering and automatic transmissions improved driving comfort and ease of use, especially notable in the Admiral B. Road tests from the 1970s praise the Admiral as a stable, comfortable cruiser made for long journeys, with robust mechanics and effective braking systems. - Admiral KAD B 2.8 E: 2.8-litre six-cylinder, Bosch injection, 165 hp, automatic gearbox, known for smooth running and improved fuel efficiency.

• Admiral Royal: Typically equipped with a six-cylinder engine, automatic, high-grade trim.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Admiral’s design evolved from pre-war elegance—rounded shapes, imposing length (up to 5.27 m), and oval lights—to the clean, sober lines of the KAD A and the refined, Europeanised appearance of KAD B. KAD models are distinguished by subtle grille and trim differences among Kapitän, Admiral, and Diplomat. Interior comfort was enhanced by high-grade materials, spacious seating, crank-operated factory sunroofs, and well-considered cockpit ergonomics introduced in 1976. Accessories such as fog lamps and dual loudspeakers were available, underlining the Admiral’s premium ambitions. Hebmüller Cabriolets, when found, display artisan-level coachwork.

Other relevant features

Large luggage compartments make the Admiral particularly suitable for touring or family transport. The platform’s versatility meant many units were modified for utility roles, both pre-war and post-war. Availability of both original and reproduction spare parts (e.g., bonnets, doors, windshields, trim) is relatively good, especially for common saloon versions.

Summary

The Opel Admiral is a symbol of its era—first as a 1930s flagship, later as the backbone of Opel’s upper segment during the 1960s and 1970s. Offering comfort, technical robustness, and distinctive styling, the Admiral retains a committed enthusiast base. Rarities like the Hebmüller Cabriolet or Royal special editions intensify collector appeal, while the ample supply of KAD B models ensures ample opportunities for classic car enthusiasts to experience Opel’s luxury tradition first-hand.