1966 Opel Rekord C Dimensions, Size & Specs

Weighing in at 1045 kg (2304 lbs), the Opel Rekord C is relatively lightweight for a sedan of its size and era. This curb weight contributes positively to the vehicle's performance, allowing for better acceleration, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling compared to heavier cars in its segment. The moderate weight also aids braking efficiency and tire wear, making the car more manageable and economical to operate. The balance between size and weight was a key factor in the Rekord C's reputation for practicality and reliability in daily use.

The Opel Rekord C has a maximum permissible weight (also called gross vehicle weight) of 1480 kg (3263 lbs). This figure includes the curb weight plus passengers, cargo, and any additional load. Understanding this limit is crucial because it ensures the vehicle operates safely within its mechanical and structural capabilities, avoiding undue stress on the engine, chassis, suspension, and brakes. Overloading beyond this weight can lead to reduced performance, increased wear and tear, and could compromise road safety.

The OEM rims for the Opel Rekord C are sized at 4.5J x 13 and 5.5J x 13, equipped with tires typically sized 175/75 R13. These relatively narrow 13-inch tires reflect the car's design period and focus on comfort and efficiency rather than aggressive sporty handling. The tire width of 175 mm (6.9 inches) offers adequate road grip for everyday driving conditions. The rim and tire combination ensures a balanced ride quality, providing enough cushioning over road irregularities while maintaining reasonable steering response and safety.

The Opel Rekord C's length of 4550 mm (179.1 inches) and width of 1758 mm (69.2 inches) generally allow it to fit comfortably inside most standard home garages. Typical garages are about 6 meters (approximately 20 feet) deep and 3 meters (around 10 feet) wide, which provides ample clearance for the car along with space for opening doors and maneuvering. However, garage sizes can vary, so owners should measure their specific garage dimensions to ensure a comfortable fit. Its moderate height of 1453 mm (57.2 inches) also easily accommodates the car beneath most garage ceilings.

The Opel Rekord C marked an evolution over the Rekord B in terms of size and design. The Rekord C's length is 4550 mm (179.1 inches), which is slightly longer than the Rekord B, contributing to increased interior space and greater overall presence on the road. It is also wider at 1758 mm (69.2 inches), which enhances passenger comfort and stability. Height remained fairly consistent, maintaining a sleek sedan profile. The overall dimensional growth allowed the Rekord C to offer improved comfort and road manners compared to its predecessor, responding to market demand for more spacious family vehicles during the late 1960s.

Compared to other mid-size sedans in the late 1960s, such as the Ford Taunus 17M or the Volkswagen Type 3, the Opel Rekord C held a competitive position. Its length of 4550 mm (179.1 inches) was fairly typical for its class, offering a similar or slightly more spacious footprint than many competitors. Its curb weight of 1045 kg (2304 lbs) was on the lighter side, contributing to efficient performance and fuel economy. While other models might have emphasized sportiness or luxury, the Rekord C's dimensions balanced interior space with drivability and practicality, making it a popular choice for families and professionals alike.

The Opel Rekord C was designed as a comfortable sedan offering seating for up to five passengers. Thanks to its 1758 mm (69.2 inches) width and extended length, the cabin provided ample room for front and rear occupants, making longer trips more enjoyable. Rear legroom and headroom were sufficient for average-sized adults, a feature that distinguished the Rekord C favorably against some of its competitors. The comfortable interior layout and generous glazing contributed to good visibility and an airy cabin feel, enhancing overall passenger comfort.

With a height of 1453 mm (57.2 inches), the Opel Rekord C maintains a relatively low profile for a sedan, which positively affects both aerodynamics and road stability. A lower height reduces air resistance, contributing to steadier handling at higher speeds and modest improvements in fuel efficiency. Additionally, this lowered ride height provides a lower center of gravity, enhancing vehicle stability during cornering and reducing body roll. These traits made the Rekord C well regarded for balanced driving dynamics in its class during the late 1960s.

While exact wheelbase specifications for the Opel Rekord C vary slightly depending on the model variant, it generally features a wheelbase close to 2670 mm (105.1 inches). This relatively long wheelbase for its class encourages a smooth ride by better absorbing road irregularities. A longer wheelbase contributes to enhanced stability and comfort, particularly on highways, as it reduces pitching motions over bumps. This design choice made the Rekord C ideal as a family sedan, blending ride quality with responsive handling.