OPEL GT 1900 Cabriolet (1970) Unprecedented enthusiasm for Klaas and Aukje Land

Not everyone is a car enthusiast, but many do become attached to their own car. This is certainly true for Klaas Land, who owns a rare Opel GT. This car is undoubtedly a classic and has a loyal fan base who want to keep it running. When the Opel GT was introduced in the 60s, it caused quite a stir. The then-modest Opel suddenly launched a flashy sports car whose design captured the imagination.

Flying alone is more exciting

GM used that slogan in their advertising back then. And rightly so: the Opel GT was a sports car with a wide stance, a fast appearance, and punchy performance. The model was a particular hit in America… a whopping 70 percent of production went overseas. These days, they're gradually returning to Europe.

Never officially built

An Opel GT Cabriolet was never officially built by the factory. However, a conversion kit was developed in Germany that allowed the coupe to be transformed into a convertible. Coincidentally, Klaas Land came into contact with Claus, a creative German who worked with convertible specialists and could supply such a conversion kit. This allowed Klaas to build the quintessential sports car himself.

Desire as a stimulus

Klaas and his wife Aukje had long wanted to drive a convertible again. It was wonderful to be out in the open air, in touch with nature, with the sun on their faces—that thrill only a convertible can offer.

Back in time with Auto Motor Klassiek

Klaas: “In 1997 I was on my way to a classic car event and bought a copy of Auto Motor KlassiekThe cover featured a dark blue Opel GT Cabriolet with wide tires. As an Opel fan, I had to have that magazine. That article later proved important, because the German TÜV had drawn up a manual with all the requirements for reinforcement and safety of the conversion. That document ultimately became the basis for the RDW approval in the Netherlands.

Buying an Opel GT

Klaas: "The car I bought for my project came from America, rust-free and in perfect condition. It's almost impossible to describe all the work, but the most important was strengthening the chassis. Thanks to a tilting bridge, I was able to start on the underbody according to schedule, including adjusting the doors and welding the A-pillars before the roof could be removed. For the convertible top, I used one from a Mazda MX-5. It needed modifications, but it perfectly matched the GT's lines. You won't be surprised that the entire conversion took two and a half years."

RDW inspectors enthusiastic

The RDW inspectors were full of praise for the technical information, the neat restoration work, and the neat finish. After the first test drive, other employees were also eager to take a test drive. changes to vehicle equipment were approved immediately. Klaas's only obligation was to leave a copy of the AMK article with the inspection papers.

HAV membership

The Historic Automobile Association aims to foster friendships among its members. Klaas fits in perfectly with this: he enjoys attending events and classic car markets to show off his beautiful convertible. And wherever he goes, he's met with unwavering enthusiasm.

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