Opel Olympia classic cars for sale

History of the Opel Olympia

Introduced in 1935, the Opel Olympia marked a major step for Opel and for German carmaking as a whole—taking its name from the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. It stood apart as Germany’s first volume-produced car with a steel monocoque body, which enhanced passenger safety while reducing weight over traditional ladder frames. Production paused during WWII, but post-war Olympia cars provided a vital stepping stone for Germany’s automotive resurgence. By 1953, the Olympia was modernised further and later replaced by the Opel Rekord, though its badge lived on for several more years. The Olympia A of 1967 represented Opel’s attempt to bridge the gap between the Kadett and Rekord ranges, carrying the legendary engineering into a new automotive era.

Model Series Evolution

Spanning several eras, Olympia models came in several distinct generations:

• 1935–1940: Initial pre-war production offered two- and four-door saloons and convertibles, featuring innovative technical specs for its class.
• 1947–1953: Postwar revival featured revised frontal suspension and mild updates, preserving the robust core engineering.
• 1953: The Olympia’s design modernised further, with ‘shark mouth’ front styling and improved capacity in the new bodywork, underpinning the economic recovery.
• 1967–1970 (‘Olympia A’): This new variant, essentially an upmarket Kadett B, featured more powerful engines and upgraded trim, available as a two- or four-door saloon, coupé, and estate (Caravan). Successor models included the Opel Rekord and Ascona.

Highlights and Market Statistics

The Olympia’s standout features include Germany’s first series production use of a unitary steel body, innovative double wishbone front suspension (from 1947), and pioneering four-speed synchro transmissions. With the OL38, hydraulic drum brakes and overhead-cam engines brought reliability and performance into a practical package. Original vinyl roofs, subtle chrome, and rare cabriolet versions still hold collector appeal.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collector’s Models

Olympia convertibles and cabrio-limousine (folding roof) models were produced in minimal quantities, making them particularly rare. Olympia A (1967–1970) specialised as the more luxurious lower mid-range model, fitted with extra chrome detailing and improved interior finishes compared to standard Kadett models. Vinyl-covered roofs and special paint codes such as ‘sandgrau’ or ‘zederngrün’ offer distinctive period authenticity for collectors.

Weak Spots and Known Issues

Vinyl roofs are particularly vulnerable to moisture ingress and can lead to rust issues underneath—always inspect closely. Mechanical drum brakes and suspension components, though designed to be robust, require regular attention due to age. For post-war models, original spare parts are still relatively accessible thanks to Opel’s modular system, but uniqueness of trim and original accessories can pose sourcing challenges. Despite their ‘workhorse’ reputation, look for corrosion on door bottoms, sills, and wheel arches, especially in estate and convertible body types.

Engine, Transmission and Road Characteristics

The Olympia impresses with its low centre of gravity afforded by the monocoque chassis, contributing to predictable and safe handling. Four-cylinder engines prioritise thriftiness and satisfying torque for the era, while the four-speed gearbox (with helical gears in the third gear) provides smoother shifts than most contemporaries. Olympia A models, with up to 90 PS from a 1.9-litre engine, deliver brisker acceleration and improved long-distance comfort, making them usable in modern classic rallies.

Popular Models:

1. Olympia Rekord (1953–1960): Most numerous, valued for practicality and postwar innovation (45 PS, 122 km/h).
2. Olympia A (1967–1970): Enhanced trim and engines, especially sought after in coupé and estate forms.
3. OL 38 (1938): Transitional model with 1.5-litre engine and hydraulic brakes—scarce in today’s market. undefined

Design, Interior and Equipment

Olympias of all generations showcase straightforward yet well-considered cabin layouts. Fabrics or vinyl upholstery, padded seats, and a linear dashboard—sometimes with the period’s typical colour-changing speedometer—define the interior. Higher trims and later Olympia As introduced more chrome, decorative trim, and comfort-oriented upholstery. Original factory paint hues and chrome accents reflect restrained, period-correct German taste. Estate variants offer impressive luggage space for the segment. Fold-down fabric roofs in cabriolet and cabrio-limousine models stand out as distinctive accessories, though these are especially rare today.

Other Notable Features

Export models for markets like Switzerland and Portugal often received unique documentation or changes in local assembly. Many Olympias remain eligible for historic vehicle registration and tax benefits in several European countries. Surviving examples with factory paperwork and service record are especially appreciated in collector circles.

Summary

The Opel Olympia occupies a distinctive place in automotive history as Germany’s breakthrough in monocoque body construction and accessible family mobility. Thanks to multiple model evolutions and body styles, it offers an appealing blend of everyday usefulness and technical innovation. Rarity, especially of convertibles and early postwar versions, together with robust parts supply, continues to underpin steady collector demand.