Opel GT GT

The Opel GT (2006–2009) is a curiosity — a roadster with an Opel badge that is actually a Saturn Sky from Wilmington (Delaware, USA). GM Kappa platform, developed alongside the Pontiac Solstice. Only around 7,500 units came to Europe, which is precisely what makes the GT a collector's item today. Finding one requires patience and knowledge of its weak points.

Market overview: In 2026, prices are 12,000–22,000 EUR for well-maintained examples with 60,000–100,000 km. Poorly maintained early examples can be found from 8,000 EUR — avoid them, as repair costs will consume the price advantage threefold. Parts come from the USA (use Saturn Sky/Pontiac Solstice part numbers), meaning delivery times of 2–4 weeks. The GT has a loyal enthusiast community that trades parts among themselves.

Engine choice: There is only one engine — the Z20NHH (2.0 Turbo Ecotec, 194 kW/264 PS). 350 Nm from 2,500 rpm, rear-wheel drive, 5-speed manual — enough for genuine driving thrills. The engine is fundamentally robust but has its topics: timing chain and chain tensioner wear from 80,000–120,000 km (rattling on cold start, 800–1,500 EUR). The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) can fail without warning — engine stalls, repair 600–1,200 EUR. Oil consumption via piston rings increases from 100,000 km (0.3–0.5 litres per 1,000 km is acceptable, beyond that a rebuild from 2,000 EUR). Turbocharger seal leaks from 80,000 km — oil in the charge pipe, smoke on acceleration (800–1,500 EUR). Water pump fails early, sometimes under 60,000 km — overheating risks cylinder head warping. Carbon deposits on intake valves from direct injection — walnut blasting recommended from 80,000 km (300–600 EUR).

Weak points: The manual gearbox has synchro ring wear in 2nd and 3rd gear with spirited driving — gear crunches when engaging, especially cold (gearbox oil change every 60,000 km helps). Front top mounts wear from 60,000–90,000 km — clicking when turning, original AC Delco parts no longer available. Steering rack develops play at higher mileage — shimmy at motorway speeds, MOT-relevant. Ignition switch recall: GM recalled all GTs (2007–2010) for a switch that could slip to the off position — airbag and power steering cut out. Check whether completed. Heater valve blocks or jams — temperature control stops working. The electric folding roof (targa concept) is mechanically reliable, but seals harden after 15+ years.

Test drive checklist: Cold start (timing chain rattle?), brisk shifting through 2nd and 3rd gear (crunching?), steering on the motorway (shimmy? play?), top mounts at full lock when stationary (clicking?), turbo boost build-up (hesitant = turbo seal?), check oil level and oil colour.

Buying advice: With the Opel GT, there is no engine choice — there is only the Z20NHH. The question is condition. A service book showing timing chain replacement and water pump change is gold. The ignition switch recall must be completed. A rust-free underside and a dry turbo are the two pass/fail criteria. Finding a well-maintained GT with under 80,000 km and documented service history means owning one of the last affordable roadsters with genuine character — 264 PS rear-wheel drive in a car weighing under 1,400 kg.