1979 Opel Kadett D Caravan Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Opel Kadett D Caravan varies between 875 kg (1929 lbs) and 1005 kg (2217 lbs), depending on configuration and equipment. The maximum permissible weight ranges from 1375 kg (3032 lbs) to 1520 kg (3351 lbs), accommodating passengers, cargo, and any additional load. This lightweight construction aids in fuel efficiency and nimble driving dynamics, especially considering it is a station wagon designed to carry more than just passengers.

The Opel Kadett D Caravan offers a generous luggage capacity of 535 liters (18.9 cubic feet) with the rear seats in their upright position, which is ample for everyday grocery runs or weekend trips. When the rear seats are folded down, the cargo volume expands significantly to 1700 liters (60.0 cubic feet), making it highly versatile for larger loads such as furniture, sports equipment, or holiday luggage. This flexibility is a hallmark of the station wagon configuration, enhancing utility while maintaining passenger comfort.

The Opel Kadett D Caravan boasts a ground clearance of 135 mm (5.3 inches), which is typical for passenger cars and ensures a good balance between ride comfort and the ability to clear common road obstacles. This moderate clearance provides sufficient protection against debris and uneven surfaces encountered in daily driving while maintaining a low center of gravity that benefits handling and stability, especially important in a station wagon.

Yes, the Opel Kadett D Caravan fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Its length of 4207 mm (165.7 inches) and width of 1636 mm (64.4 inches) are within typical garage space dimensions, which usually measure around 2400 to 3000 mm (94.5 to 118 inches) in width and at least 4800 mm (189 inches) in length. The height of 1400 mm (55.1 inches) also allows for easy entry without clearance issues. This makes it practical for homeowners looking for a spacious station wagon that doesn’t require special parking accommodations.

Compared to the Kadett C Caravan, the Kadett D Caravan introduced in 1979 is slightly larger, reflecting evolving market demands for more spacious and comfortable vehicles. The Kadett D Caravan's length of 4207 mm (165.7 inches) represents an increase over the Kadett C generation, which had a length around 4060 mm (159.8 inches). Width and height have also been optimized for better interior space and aerodynamics. This enlargement translates into more interior room and cargo capacity, enhancing the Kadett D's appeal as a practical family station wagon without compromising its compact car nature.

The Opel Kadett D Caravan holds its own dimensionally when compared to other compact station wagons from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Variant or Ford Escort Estate had similar length measurements in the range of 4100-4300 mm (161-169 inches), widths around 1600-1700 mm (63-67 inches), and comparable heights near 1400 mm (55 inches). Its cargo capacities, notably 535 liters (18.9 cu ft) with seats up and 1700 liters (60 cu ft) folded, were competitive and sometimes superior, providing ample versatility for families and cargo transport. Overall, it was a well-sized, practical choice amid its rivals.

The Opel Kadett D Caravan is designed as a compact station wagon, produced from 1979 to 1984. This vehicle is positioned in the market as a practical family car offering the utility of increased cargo space combined with compact dimensions for urban and suburban driving. The 'Caravan' designation by Opel traditionally refers to station wagons, signifying a focus on versatility and everyday usability. Its lightweight architecture and optimized dimensions aimed to deliver an appealing balance of fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and cargo capacity in its class.

The production period of the Opel Kadett D Caravan from 1979 to 1984 marks an important phase in the evolution of compact station wagons in Europe. During these years, automotive manufacturers focused on improving efficiency, safety, and practicality, responding to the growing demand for vehicles that could serve both family and commercial purposes. The Kadett D's five-year production run included incremental updates that ensured its competitiveness in a market increasingly crowded with versatile wagons. Its era also saw innovations in engine technology and design trends that influenced future generations.

The curb weight of the Opel Kadett D Caravan, ranging from 875 kg (1929 lbs) to 1005 kg (2217 lbs), plays a pivotal role in its overall driving dynamics and fuel consumption. Its relatively light weight for a station wagon contributes to nimble handling, quicker acceleration, and reduced braking distances compared to heavier competitors. Additionally, the lighter construction supports better fuel economy, an important factor for buyers during the late 1970s and early 1980s fuel-conscious era. These characteristics made the Kadett D Caravan an economical and practical choice for daily driving and longer trips.