1982 Opel Rekord E (facelift 1982) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Opel Rekord E facelift (1982-1986) ranges from 1115 kg to 1270 kg (approximately 2458 to 2798 pounds), depending on the trim and equipment. The maximum permissible weight varies between 1655 kg and 1780 kg (approximately 3649 to 3924 pounds). This weight range positions the Rekord E as a relatively lightweight mid-size sedan for its class, which benefits fuel efficiency, acceleration, and handling dynamics, offering a balanced driving experience.

The Opel Rekord E facelift offers a luggage capacity of 490 liters (about 17.3 cubic feet). This is a respectable storage space for a sedan of its size and era, allowing for ample room to accommodate suitcases, groceries, or other cargo. The trunk space supports practical everyday use, making the vehicle suitable for family trips and regular commuting needs.

The Opel Rekord E facelift features a ride height or ground clearance of 140 mm (approximately 5.5 inches). This clearance is moderate and typical for passenger sedans, providing enough height to avoid common road obstacles such as curbs and minor potholes. However, it is not designed for off-road use or very rough terrain, so caution is advised on unpaved surfaces or heavy snow.

Yes, the Opel Rekord E facelift fits comfortably into a standard home garage. With a length of 4652 mm (183.1 inches) and width of 1726 mm (67.9 inches), it is compact enough to allow some extra space for opening doors and storage alongside the vehicle in most average garages, which typically accommodate cars up to around 5 meters (16.4 feet) long and 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) wide.

Compared to its predecessor, the Rekord D (produced 1977–1982), the Rekord E facelift of 1982 maintained a similar size profile but incorporated modern styling and interior improvements. The Rekord E is slightly longer and wider, with enhanced aerodynamics and more interior room. The minor increase in dimensions contributes to improved passenger comfort and luggage capacity, reflecting evolving design trends of the early 1980s.

The Opel Rekord E facelift competes well in size within the early 1980s mid-size sedan segment. Its length of 4652 mm (183.1 in) and width of 1726 mm (67.9 in) are comparable to competitors like the Ford Sierra or Volkswagen Passat of the same period. While not the largest in class, it balances exterior dimensions to offer practicality and maneuverability. Luggage capacity at 490 liters is also competitive, supporting its appeal as a family and daily commuter car.

The Opel Rekord E facelift was designed to deliver generous interior space for its class, with well-proportioned front and rear seating areas facilitated by the vehicle’s balanced length and width. The sedan's moderate height of 1420 mm (55.9 inches) favors a low center of gravity for stable rides. Comfort features typical of the era included supportive seats, adequate headroom, and possibly improved sound insulation in the facelift model, making it enjoyable for both driver and passengers.

The 1982 facelift of the Opel Rekord E introduced subtle yet meaningful design and dimension updates. While the core proportions remained consistent with the initial Rekord E, the facelift featured refinements like updated front and rear styling, revised bumpers, and minor dimensional tweaks to improve aerodynamics. Despite these updates, the length, width, and height stayed close to original specifications to ensure continuity in interior space and driving dynamics.

The curb weight of the Opel Rekord E facelift ranges between 1115 kg and 1270 kg (2458 to 2798 pounds). The variability depends on engine options, trim levels, included safety equipment, and additional features such as air conditioning or power windows. Lighter versions typically featured smaller engines and fewer luxury options, while fully equipped models with more powerful engines and extras tended toward the higher end of the weight spectrum.