1991 OPEL Astra 5 Doors 1.4L iS 5MT FWD (82 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Opel decided to retire the Kadett nameplate from its lineup and made a bold move when introducing the first generation of the Astra in 1991.

For some, it was a shock, but later on, the carmaker proved it was the right thing to do, and the Astra had risen from the Kadett ashes. It was a new design concept and a new idea. Opel addressed the car not only to younger generations but to older people as well. Before that, it was hard to see a retired couple into a Kadett (cadet – young soldier).

The Astra featured a short front fascia with narrow headlights and grille, crossed by a thin slat. From its sides, the design team kept the straight line theme for the rear wheel-arch from the Kadett but enlarged, which started from the rear doors. The Astra F featured a wide rear glass area between the rear doors and the D-pillars.

Inside, Opel placed its bets on a simple, functional interior centered around the driver. For that, it installed a tilted center stack, with easy-to-reach climate control buttons on the lower side and the stereo cassette above it. In the instrument panel, the carmaker placed the speedometer in the middle, flanked on the sides by the tachometer and a common area for the fuel and coolant temperature gauges. Opel designed new seats for the Astra, with no bolstering on the sides. Despite its short wheelbase, the car was very roomy inside and could accommodate up to five people.

Under the hood, Opel installed seven gasoline and two oil burners. The diesel versions were supplied by Isuzu and were offered with or without a turbocharger.