Rüsselsheim. The roar of engines and the gleam of chrome captivated crowds as the Olympia Rally ’72 Revival showcased a stunning array of automotive history. This unique event, witnessing nearly 200 teams from 9 nations navigate legendary rally routes in historic vehicles, has been a resounding success, amplified by the week-long embrace of midsummer weather. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, Opel, a key brand within Stellantis, took center stage, celebrating its rich heritage with rally legend Walter Röhrl. The 75-year-old icon, himself marking a jubilee year, participated in the Rally Revival, completing the Cologne to Speyer stage in iconic Opel models, a fitting tribute during Opel’s 160th anniversary year.
Yesterday morning witnessed Röhrl commencing the stage behind the wheel of a striking Opel Kadett GT/E Coupé. This model, renowned for its sporty prowess and distinctive design, perfectly embodies Opel’s commitment to performance and accessible driving pleasure. Following a midday pause in Pferdsfeld, Röhrl transitioned to a 1982 Opel Ascona 400, a vehicle deeply intertwined with his illustrious career. It was in the Ascona 400 that Röhrl achieved numerous victories, most notably the prestigious Monte Carlo Rally in 1982, cementing his status as a rally legend and Opel’s place in motorsport history. His arrival at the Technik Museum Speyer, the day’s final destination, in the Ascona 400 was a highlight for spectators and participants alike.
Throughout the week, along the rally route and at each stage’s end, enthusiasts were treated to a further showcase of Opel’s heritage, distinguished by the iconic “Blitz” emblem. In homage to the rally’s name, the Opel Olympia made a prominent appearance. The featured model, a 1967 Olympia 1100 SR, boasted 60 horsepower (44 kW) and represented the sporty and stylish spirit of the era. Adding to the classic rally lineup was a Rallye Kadett, a model famously driven in the 1970s by Swedish rally champion Anders Kulläng and co-driver Bruno Berglund. This particular Kadett at the Revival was piloted by ADAC Honorary Sports President Hermann Tomczyk and motorsport veteran Günther Holzer, further bridging generations of motorsport passion.
Demonstrating Opel’s forward-thinking approach even within a classic vehicle revival context, organizers utilized the new Opel Astra plug-in hybrid as a crew vehicle throughout the event. This modern marvel, embodying Opel’s current design language with the Opel Vizor and Pure Panel digital cockpit, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to innovation. The Astra plug-in hybrid not only served as a practical support vehicle but also aligned with the rally’s climate-conscious concept. Offering a system output of 180 horsepower (133 kW) and 360 Newton meters of torque, this electrified Astra achieves a balance of performance and efficiency (WLTP combined fuel consumption: 1.1 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 26-24 g/km). Its electric range of up to 60 km (WLTP) underscores Opel’s dedication to sustainable mobility and its vision for the future of driving, seamlessly blending heritage with innovation within the Stellantis portfolio.
