1972 Opel Rekord D Caravan Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Opel Rekord D Caravan ranges between 1110 kg and 1255 kg (approximately 2447 to 2767 lbs), depending on the specific engine and trim options. This weight range is moderate for a station wagon of the era, enabling a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance. The relatively light curb weight helps in maintaining responsive handling and manageable braking characteristics, while still allowing for a sturdy, comfortable ride. The maximum weight (gross vehicle weight) ranges from 1685 kg to 1825 kg (around 3716 to 4025 lbs), indicating a solid payload capacity.

The Opel Rekord D Caravan has a ride height or ground clearance of 130 mm (approximately 5.1 inches). This clearance is typical for station wagons of the 1970s and strikes a good balance between ease of entry, aerodynamic efficiency, and the ability to handle moderately uneven road surfaces. While it is not designed for off-road use, the clearance is sufficient for everyday urban and rural driving conditions, offering comfort and reasonable obstacle negotiation without sacrificing stability.

Yes, the Opel Rekord D Caravan generally fits well into a standard residential garage. With a length of 4594 mm (181 inches), width of 1715 mm (67.5 inches), and height of 1440 mm (56.7 inches), it is compact enough for typical single-car garages, which are commonly around 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 3 meters (10 feet) in width. The moderate height also allows for overhead storage or lighting fixtures without clearance issues. Owners should still measure their specific garage space to ensure ease of maneuvering and door clearance.

While specific cargo volume figures for the Opel Rekord D Caravan are hard to find, the station wagon design inherently maximizes interior cargo and passenger space. The relatively lengthy body at 4594 mm (181 inches) and a wide 1715 mm (67.5 inches) width allow for a spacious cabin and large rear cargo area with rear seats folded. This setup made it an ideal family vehicle or for practical use, such as carrying sports gear or goods. The low height of 1440 mm (56.7 inches) contributes to a low center of gravity, improving stability, but also slightly limits vertical cargo space compared to taller wagons.

The Opel Rekord D Caravan, which replaced the Rekord C in 1972, was slightly larger in several key dimensions. The Rekord D was lengthened to 4594 mm (181 in) compared to the Rekord C's approximate length of 4500 mm (177 in), offering more interior and cargo space. The width of 1715 mm (67.5 in) on the Rekord D was roughly similar but often perceived as slightly roomier due to more efficient interior packaging. The height was slightly reduced or maintained around 1440 mm (56.7 in), contributing to a sleeker, more modern look. Overall, the Rekord D provided improved passenger comfort and cargo capacity while refining the design and handling.

The Opel Rekord D Caravan was mid-sized compared to other station wagons from the 1970s. Its 4594 mm (181 in) length places it between compact and full-size wagons of the era. For instance, many American wagons were significantly larger, often exceeding 5 meters (197 in), while smaller European wagons frequently measured under 4.4 meters (173 in). The width of 1715 mm (67.5 in) was also modest, making the car easier to maneuver in tight city environments compared to larger competitors. This balance made the Rekord D Caravan popular for families needing practicality without excessive bulk.

The dimensions of the Opel Rekord D Caravan contributed significantly to its success in the family and practical car market during its production years. Its length of 4594 mm (181 in) and width of 1715 mm (67.5 in) provided ample interior space without compromising maneuverability, ideal for European city streets and countryside driving. The moderate height of 1440 mm (56.7 in) combined with a 130 mm (5.1 in) ground clearance offered a pleasing balance between interior headroom and a stable, comfortable ride. These features, coupled with its versatility as a station wagon, catered to drivers seeking a dependable vehicle with good cargo and passenger capacity.

The Opel Rekord D Caravan has a curb weight ranging from 1110 kg to 1255 kg (2447 to 2767 lbs), reflecting different engine sizes and trim levels. Its maximum gross vehicle weight ranges from 1685 kg to 1825 kg (3716 to 4025 lbs), which indicates the car’s capacity to carry additional passengers and cargo safely. Typically, this permits a payload of roughly 575 kg to 700 kg (1268 to 1543 lbs), which is quite practical for a station wagon of its time. This capacity made the Rekord D Caravan well-suited for family transport, weekend trips, and light commercial use.

Due to its moderate exterior dimensions—length of 4594 mm (181 in), width of 1715 mm (67.5 in), and height of 1440 mm (56.7 in)—and curb weight between 1110 and 1255 kg (2447-2767 lbs), the Opel Rekord D Caravan strikes a practical balance for urban driving. It is large enough to accommodate families and cargo but compact enough to maneuver through city streets and fit into standard parking spaces. The relatively light weight improves fuel efficiency and responsiveness, which are advantageous in stop-and-go traffic. Furthermore, the moderate ground clearance of 130 mm (5.1 in) ensures it can clear typical urban road irregularities without difficulty.