The Opel Kapitän was the last Opel model produced before the outbreak of WW2.
It was presented at the Geneva Motor Show in spring 1939. The pre-war Kapitän was available as a 2-door saloon, a 4-door saloon, and a convertible. The most popular though was the 4-door saloon.
The Kapitän inherited the 2.5 L engine from the Opel Super Six with a maximum speed of 118 km/h (73 mph) and a 3-speed manual. Before the civilian Opel production stopped in 1940 25,371 units were produced, and in 1943 three more followed to make a total of 25,374 units.
In 1948 after WW2 the Opel Kapitän was produced again with little changes and only as a 6 cylinder 4-door saloon, with a maximum speed of 126 km/h (78.3 mph). The design changes were round headlights and different bumpers and hubcaps. From 1948 to 1951 30,431 cars were built. The car produced from 1951 to 1953 had a slightly modernized design but was technically much the same. 48,563 cars were produced.
At the end of 1954 a completely new Kapitän was introduced. It was longer and wider but still had a 6-cylinder engine. From 1957 on a 4-speed overdrive was optional.
In 1958 the P1 Kapitän came to market followed by the P2 in 1959, the Kapitän A in 1964, and the Kapitän B in 1969. Production ended in 1970.
Tags: 3-speed manual, 6-cylinder, Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Kapitän, maximum speed, mph, Opel, Opel Kapitän
Where can I find a post WW2 car for sale in Western Europe?
I don’t know where you’re from, but I’d possibly try it in Sweden.
I know an opel Kapitän 1939 for sale in France in the south of Paris.
It has been kept in a garage since 1960 and hasn’t been running since this time.
if you are interested tell me on my mail address.
best regards
To Luce…did you know if that Kapitän-39 will be left yet in Paris..can you send some photo on this car..and send to me..mojjeh@telia.com…thanks
if the opel is still there please contact mee,
kind regards,
Frans