[tekenaar]

While doing some research for my recent addition of the Opel 1.5 (80x74) and 1.7 (85x74) 4-cylinder OHV engines used in the Rekord models imported here from 1958-1962, I found some interesting tidbits of history I thought I'd share with the history buffs here. Most interesting is the use of four main bearings in a four cylinder engine, unique in the auto industry.

This 1.5 OHV engine was first installed as standard equipment in an Olympia in December of 1937! It was Opel's first OHV and oversquare, bore larger than stroke, engine and was used unchanged as standard equipment for certain Opel models until 1960. Beginning in 1959, Opel also offered an increased bore 1.7 version of this engine optionally, becoming the standard engine for 1961-1962.