It drives like a four wheel motorcycle! Opel rather conservatively promises a 0-100 kph time of 5.9 seconds. (For metrically challenged Americans, think 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds.)

It is so impressive in style, Just two years later, an amazingly brief interval in automotive terms, the Speedster is back, this time in roadworthy trim. Surprisingly little has changed from the concept car's visuals, a primary goal for Opel and its partner, British-based Lotus, which produces the Speedster alongside its own little Elise. Under the skin, there've been a number of modifications made to the original Opel prototype, which was little more than a re-skinned version of the Lotus roadster. The wheelbase of the extruded aluminum chassis has been lengthened a bit, the track widened slightly. And GM has opted for big, 17-inch wheels and tires, instead of the 15-inchers found on the Elise.

"More Cars to Review"
RETURN TO ALL AUTO PROFILES

BACK TO THE TOP OF PAGE

A modified GM 2.2-liter in-line four has been substituted for the Rover-supplied powerplant used in the Elise. Basically the same engine used by Saturn, the lightweight aluminum puts out 147 horsepower, and delivers a moving 90 percent of its torque at just 1900 rpm. Now when you consider the rear-drive Speedster weighs in at just 870 kilograms (1914 pounds), you've got a formula for some serious acceleration. Opel rather conservatively promises a 0-100 kph time of 5.9 seconds. (For metrically challenged Americans, think 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds.) ThereÕs so much torque, in fact, one seldom needs to shift the short-throw five-speed manual gearbox.

The Speedster is not for relaxing drives: The Opel Speedster is not a car for day-to-day commuting. It is loud and rough and an absolute blast on open roads. Stuck in traffic, or speeding your way down the autobahn, you'd need half the next day to recoup. It's also not a car for extended travel, with a trunk little bigger than a small carry on suit case. But for day trips and weekend drives down an open road, it is an absolute adrenalin rush.

Plans call for Lotus to build 3000 vehicles a year for Opel/Vauxhall, each with its own numbered plate. Production is set for only a three-year run, and then the Speedster is permanently retired. Will there be a second version to follow? "Perhaps," is the best answer we can get right now. But considering the almost cult-like following the Speedster is already developing, Opel would be foolish to abandon this niche entirely.

This car is not quite Americanized yet. Priced at the equivalent of $30,000, the little roadster went on sale in Great Britain last November-where it is sold under the Vauxhall VX220 nameplate. The Speedster version is just rolling out across the rest of Europe. Sadly, there are no plans to bring the Speedster over to the States. In current form, it wouldn't meet tough U.S. crash requirements. But Opel officials admit they're open to reconsider their decision.

More than any manufacturer: Can Opel get this car into production over here is the question. This car would be a definite hit here in the states. We patiently await tis vehicles appearance in the US. As well we can't wait to get the vehicle specifications on this exciting new sports car. JH/AutoNetDirect.com

SEE BELOW FOR SOME OF THE NEW OPEL SPEEDSTER SPECIFICATIONS

GET YOUR COPY OF "THE UNTOLD AUTO SECRETS" Click Here Now

BACK TO THE TOP OF PAGE