Page 1 of 1 The world premiere of the Eco-Speedster concept at the 2002 Paris Motor Show marked the start of the biggest diesel-offensive in Opel's history. Through the end of 2003 Opel will introduce across the range four all-new diesel engines with power outputs up to 177 hp. The aerodynamically optimized and lightweight Eco-Speedster, with its long-tail bodywork, demonstrates the performance potential of the future 1.3-liter Ecotec Diesel engine. During initial testing the 112 hp concept car reached a maximum speed of more than 250 km/h, while fuel consumption was a miserly 2.5 liters per 100 km.
The prototype is based on the mid-engined Speedster roadster, but features new, carbon fiber bodywork with much improved aerodynamics. With significantly reduced drag (Cd = 0.20) and even lower weight, the Eco-Speedster takes up where another Opel prototype left off 30 years ago. On June 1, 1972, at the company's Dudenhofen proving ground, a modified Opel GT with 95 hp, 2.1-liter Turbo-diesel power unit made the headlines by setting several world records for diesel engines and reaching a top speed of 197.5 km/h. Shortly afterwards, with the Rekord 2.1 D, Opel brought its first diesel-engined passenger car onto the market. Page 1 of 1