GT Exterior Dimensions Comparison

[newman27]

This past weekend I happened to park next to a Mazda MX-5 Miata and started comparing the GT with the Miata as far as exterior dimensions. The cars looked pretty similar to the naked eye. My Solstice looks "beefier" than the GT but I have also always wondered how they compare on paper. Anyway, this got me to thinking about building a comparison chart between the dimensions of the classic Opel GT and modern "roadsters". I have attached the comparison here as a reference.

It seems to me that the one dimension that makes the classic GT look smaller than modern cars is its overall width. Otherwise, it is in the ballpark in all other dimensions and has an advantage in curbweight (assuming lighter = better!) .

Matt

[opelwasp]

Originally Posted by newman27 It seems to me that the one dimension that makes the classic GT look smaller than modern cars is its overall width. Otherwise, it is in the ballpark in all other dimensions and has an advantage in curbweight (assuming lighter = better!) . Matt

Are we looking at an under body swap? Looks like it is feasible. Looks like all is needed is a fender flare kit.

[wrench459]

Matt do you have the weight distribution specs for comparison?
That might tell the real story.

[newman27]

Originally Posted by wrench459 Matt do you have the weight distribution specs for comparison? That might tell the real story.

A couple of these cars did list the percentage of front and rear weight distribution. They're in that near perfect range of 50 / 50 or close to it (51 / 49). I recall when I was looking at the Solstice that Pontiac made a big point of that stat.

I know the Opel GT (classic) is "front heavy" contributing to understeer (I think I have that right). However, a few magazine articles I have read indicate that Opel did think of this when they designed the GT and did the best they could to balance the car's front and rear weight distribution by moving the engine back toward the center of the car.

Matt

[opelenvy]

Originally Posted by opelwasp Are we looking at an under body swap? Looks like it is feasible. Looks like all is needed is a fender flare kit.

That would rock! Drop a classic GT body on an S2000 chassis. Probably easier than trying to fit all the s2000 parts (drive train, brakes, etc.) on a classic GT and then worry about your weakest link that will break from all the power.
Anyone got $50K I can have to work on this?

[wrench459]

No 50K here but
move the battery to the pass. side rear
drop the engine and trans an inch or so(lower center of gravity)
and some how relocate the rad. to the rear with a full tank of fuel.
Might be close to 50/50

[oldopelguy]

I happen to know where a GT with complete Miata front and rear suspensions already grafted in is sitting for sale, waiting on someone to finish the project.

You know, for comparison purposes....

[bgdowski]

I have a comparison for you guys!!! Right after i bought my GT, My buddy thought it would be funny to go to the local park and line them up in the parking lot.. Here is what it looks like parked by his F150...

[bgdowski]

I realize how irrelevant that post was, but hey we are talking comparisons... and well, everyone wants to show off their GT to each other

[opelwasp]

Originally Posted by oldopelguy I happen to know where a GT with complete Miata front and rear suspensions already grafted in is sitting for sale, waiting on someone to finish the project. You know, for comparison purposes....

I like what I see here. Can you get more pics of this setup?