Opel
Opel, a name synonymous with German automotive history, has navigated a complex path since its inception in 1862. Initially a sewing machine manufacturer, the company transitioned to bicycles before embracing the burgeoning automobile industry in 1899. Early Opel cars, often built under license, gradually evolved into a distinct brand, known for its practical and affordable offerings.
The interwar years saw Opel become Germany's largest automaker, producing iconic models like the "Laubfrosch" and the Kadett. However, the brand's fortunes were significantly impacted by World War II. Post-war, Opel's reliance on General Motors, its American parent company, shaped its design and engineering. While offering a range of models, Opel struggled to maintain a truly unique identity, often sharing platforms and components with its GM counterparts. The brand's legacy is one of resilience, but also of a persistent struggle to define itself independently.
