Model Car Opel Kadett GT/E white and yellow number 26 - 1979 Monte-Carlo Rally
Echelle: 1/43ème
Pilotes: J.L. Clarr / D. Mahuteaux
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This stunning Opel Kadett GT/E in white and yellow with the number 26 immortalizes one of the most memorable participations in the 1979 Monte-Carlo Rally. Driven by the duo J.L. Clarr and D. Mahuteaux, this miniature perfectly captures the competitive spirit of that golden era of rallying.
A true witness of motorsport history, this faithful reproduction stands as a must-have for any rally enthusiast and ideally complements collections dedicated to the great moments of European motorsport.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: Kadett GT/E
- Brand: Opel
- Year: 1979
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: White and yellow
- Race number: 26
- Protective case included: Yes
The Opel Kadett GT/E in history
Launched in 1975, the Kadett GT/E represented the sporting culmination of Opel's Kadett C range. This high-performance version was equipped with a 2.0-liter engine producing 115 horsepower, a remarkable power for its time. Its design favored a balance between performance and reliability, essential qualities to face the most demanding rallying trials.
The GT/E was distinguished by its lightweight body, specific alloy wheels, and a stripped-down performance-oriented interior. Its rigid chassis and weight distribution made it a formidable weapon on the winding roads of European rallies, particularly appreciated for its maneuverability and robustness.
At the 1979 Monte-Carlo, this Kadett GT/E was part of the lineage of accessible rally cars, providing private crews with a credible alternative to more expensive factory machines.
Opel and the era of democratization in motorsport
In 1979, Opel was undergoing a transformation under the aegis of General Motors. The German brand sought to enhance its sporting image while maintaining its reputation as an accessible manufacturer. This strategy was perfectly embodied by the Kadett GT/E, which allowed private drivers to own a performing rally car without the prohibitive costs of factory models.
Opel's commitment to rallying was part of a technological development approach where every kilometer traveled in competition served to improve the production models. This philosophy enabled the brand to maintain its competitiveness against rival manufacturers like Ford with the Escort or Renault with the Alpine A110.
The presence of the Kadett GT/E at Monte-Carlo attested to the gradual democratization of rallying, where semi-professional crews could compete with official teams thanks to reliable and high-performance machines.
The Monte-Carlo 1979: a legendary rally
The 1979 Monte-Carlo Rally remains etched in memories as one of the most unpredictable editions of this mythical event. That year, the particularly capricious weather conditions disrupted all predictions, turning each special stage into a lottery for competitors.
The Opel Kadett GT/E number 26 of Clarr and Mahuteaux operated in a context where tire strategy became crucial. Between snow, ice, and dry asphalt varying by sector, drivers had to adapt constantly. The robustness of the Kadett GT/E then made all the sense, allowing crews to maintain a steady pace despite the road's traps.
This participation perfectly illustrated the spirit of rallying in that era, where passion often took precedence over purely commercial considerations. Crews like that of Clarr and Mahuteaux embodied a generation of drivers for whom participating in Monte-Carlo represented the culmination of a season, regardless of the final ranking.
Complete your miniature collection
This Opel Kadett GT/E naturally finds its place alongside other legendary rally cars from the late 70s. It beautifully harmonizes with collections dedicated to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and other events of the time, creating a coherent ensemble representative of this golden decade of motorsport.
Collectors passionate about rallying will particularly appreciate this reproduction that interacts admirably with other iconic models like the Alpine Renault or the Ford Escort competition cars. This miniature also represents an excellent entry point to discover the world of Opel racing, a lesser-known but fascinating facet of German automotive history.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or an informed enthusiast, this Kadett GT/E is an authentic testimony of a time when rallying still directly shaped the evolution of production cars, bringing a unique historical and emotional dimension to your collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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