Until Cadillac rebadged the Opel Omega as a Catera, large Opels were obscure vehicles for most Americans. Introduced in 1969 to replace the Admiral A, the Admiral B was powered by an OHV 2.8 liter inline six, which could be optioned with fuel injection, making this the first Opel model to offer the technology. The large sedan soldiered on until 1977 when the Senator replaced both it and the similar Diplomat. This seller claims this is the only Admiral in the U.S. but has no proof to back it up. In any case, you will surely be the only one on your block, if not the state, to drive one of these large German sedans.
The seller states:
1972 Opel Admiral, imported from Germany. It’s been in the United States around a year. The car is original, no accidents, original paint. The car has 25,000 original miles. A few things were done to the car when we received it. New spark plugs, new spark plug wires, rotor, cap, brakes front and rear, brand new master cylinder, brand new Michelin tires. Also upgraded the stereo system and you can see on the pictures a complete exhaust system. Most of these parts were ordered directly from Germany. It has a few small rust spots.
So far there are a few bids but there is a reserve on the auction. Values on these kind of vehicles, especially outside of their home markets can be hard to put a finger on. This seller had listed this car at $19,000 a few days ago without a reserve, so it’s safe to say he is probably hoping to get over $10,000. While in good shape, there is a noticeable amount of rust that needs to be addressed and finding parts would not be an easy task stateside. For those who are brave, though, this would be a great conversation piece to show up in at the local classic car show.
-Paul
What a car to take to College. I believe the auction when they say it idles and runs and stops well. Just add some Better tires and Bilsteins and you have a German Nova. I love the Americanized styling touches, as if to cash in on that part of the market that identified with US sensibilities. Having connections in Europe or wherever these originally lived will be key when you need some parts.