In 1862, Adam Opel has used his father’s locksmith shop from Russelsheim, Germany, to produce sewing machines. In 1886, the first bicycle, the “Velociped” is launching on the market. By the mid-20, Opel became the largest byciclet producer in the world. Meanwhile, the bikes were added to the list of products. Opel begins the automotive history in 1899; the company is the second oldest German car manufacturer after Daimler-Benz.

In the autumn of 1902, Opel presented the “Patent Motorcar Lutzmann” with a 10/12 hp engine. Enjoys fast cars increase in popularity: by 1906, already more than 1,000 such vehicles have rolled off the production line. The brand builds its own name as a manufacturer of affordable models that are successful in sales like “Doktorwagen” (1909) or “Puppchen” (1914). These models are based on the company ethos of delivering quality vehicles, reliable and accessible to large segments of customers.

In 1924, Opel is the first German automaker that uses an automated assembly line. For example, in 1928, the Opel model rocket exceeds the record of speed at Berlin Avus race track. Fritz von Opel reaches a speed of 238 km/h, unimaginable in those days. A year later, Opel aims sky: his Opel-Sander RAK1 take off from a large market in Frankfurt, becoming the first public flight with rocket pilot, although it was a short one.

Opel and the sister brand Vauxhall from the UK now sell cars in over 40 countries. The company has a workforce of around 40,500 factories and engineering centers in six European nations. Only in 2010, Opel / Vauxhall sold more than 1.1 million cars and light commercial vehicles, reaching a market share of 6.2% in Europe. With the launch of the Ampera electric, traditional brand starts a new segment in the European automotive industry and highlights the role of trendsetter for progressive mobility solutions.

Those from Opel announce the introduction of the Insignia mid range model of a new diesel engine, 2.0 liter and 195 hp. Here is some further information about this engine.

For now, the European market Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI diesel engine offered in 3 versions of power: 110 hp, 130 hp and 160 hp ecoFLEX. But the competition has pushed the Germans from Opel to think of a more powerful diesel.

So, in 2012, Opel Insignia will benefit from a new diesel motor: 2.0 CDTi Biturbo. An engine jointly developed with Fiat Group, which develops a maximum power of 195 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm. Therefore, with 35 hp more than the 160 hp version, namely a maximum torque of 50 Nm best.

Obviously, his performance is announced Insignia CDTi BiTurbo best: 0-100 km / h in 8.7 seconds (9.5 seconds compared to version 160 hp) and a top speed of 230 km / h (220 km / h the 160 hp version). Consumption is only 0.6 litres/100 km large version to 160 horsepower, reaching to 4.9 liters/100 km and CO2 emissions are 129 g/km (compared to 115 g/km to 160 versions CP).

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Insignia CDTi BiTurbo benefits by a standard system start/stop engine and 6-speed manual transmission is. This version will be offered in combination with four-wheel drive, while the front suspension Strut benefit from Hyper solution on top Insignia OPC version to ensure an excellent dynamic.

The new biturbo diesel CDTi 195 hp will be available for all three body styles (4-door, 5-door Sports Tourer) and prices in Europe will start from around 33,000 euro, the launch will take place at Motor Show Geneva 2012.

It’s no secret that almost all manufacturers offer for customers the possibility of conducting driver training for refining qualities, and somewhere to taste a little of riding sensations. Opel offers the chance to enter in the world from Dudenhofen, where the Germans have created a parallel universe where they can test a model in almost all conditions.

The basic course is called “Driver Training” and costs 297.50 euro. A course designed to make the driver aware of the limits of his car, to appreciate better the braking distances and braking points, which means an avoidance maneuver… so-called elk test. And for experienced drivers exists OPC Performance Training, a course that costs 480 euros. About this we will discuss below. Obviously the current models wearing all OPC signature.

One of the OPC driving tests is the slalom. At the first sight it is a harmless and relatively trivial test for a driver who believes that he has experience. However the slalom is one of the most complex tests where you have to find a balance between speed and direction and how aggressive you are. For instructors is probably the analyzing level of each student. The first mistake in this test is to approaching with too much speed in slalom, leading to strong understeer.

OPC Performance Training is a very good course. There will be a good course for those who go to this course believing that they know everything. To learn must not forget that OPC Performance Training is not a race where you have to prove to others and instructors that you are the best. In respect of the instructors are few things that can impress, especially when your name is Joachim Winkelhock and the record of two wins in 24-hour race at Nurburgring and one 24-hour race at Le Mans. A course in which you have the opportunity to learn from the legends of motorsport.

The third generation of Opel Zafira, now called Zafira Tourer, left a very pleasant impression: a family is more advanced, but comes with original ideas for the interior. In the test, version 2.0 CDTI diesel engine top.

In Europe, Opel Zafira already has a strong reputation; the first generation appeared in 1999 introducing acclaimed Flex7 system, a unique idea for compact MPV segment with 7 seats. In terms of appearance, was a family car with a powerful air that flies its brand image taken from Astra G.

The second Zafira, published in 2005, represent a major evolution in the interior and layout of the seven seats, but in terms of the exterior, was more an evolution relying on angular forms. However, the Zafira is still a family car with a powerful style, with no salt and pepper – unless you call the OPC package.

Why would a family need a spacious car, but with a very dynamic look? I can not really answer this question may seem strange even to combine two antagonistic traits. However, Opel designers have decided that the third generation Opel Zafira will need “something” to make it more attractive at first glance.

Since the open door Opel Zafira Tourer are struck by a very familiar air, of origin Opel Astra. Indicators, multifunction steering wheel, buttons for the audio system or automatic air conditioning, compact all come from the Germans. It’s just that, being a larger car, the dashboard is high, so integration is slightly different commands and buttons.

The novel idea called FlexRail appreciated, an evolution of those on the Opel Meriva: between the front seats are two aluminum rails, sliding armrest that, as it slid a cup holder, and below we find a huge pocket for various things large. What can be hidden from prying eyes – hmm … there might even get a gift for x years of marriage anniversary, who knows.

Opel Performance Center or OPC on short is the performance division of the Opel, and Insignia OPC it is not a discordant note, offering performance and feelings that can not be found in a normal car, at least those from Opel portfolio.

In terms of aesthetic, Insignia OPC proudly displays its very DNA of sports products. Generously dimensioned air intakes, whose design exudes a feeling of power, the front of Insignia OPC can be described in a single word: power.

Equipped with a 2.8-liter V6 engine, capable of providing an output of 325 hp, Opel Insignia OPC Unlimited even took us to its maximum speed of 270 km/h. The car needs 6.0 seconds to reach 100 km/h. Basically, you do not realize when you reach the maximum speed. This means speed that can be a very simple example of the expression “Pedal to the metal”… and that says it all.

The interior is “engraved” with a number of elements that shows the “pure blood” DNA of Insignia OPC. From the first, stands out the inscription on clocks, “OPC Unlimited”, the only clue show that we are on board of the special edition.

The center console, two buttons have within our grasp “magic” that is, OPC button and Sport button. The two offers a performance that adapts to the skills behind the wheel. If in the case of Sport button, you have a fast engine response to throttle depression, at the OPC button the answer is brilliant. The rear passengers will feel safe pressing OPC, especially if they are not careful.

In conclusion, we can say that Opel Insignia OPC Unlimited is a kind of wolf in sheep’s clothing. It can run comfortable and pleasant, and when the car is put to work, the driver will certainly have nothing to do. Besides this, Opel Insignia OPC Unlimited, is a car with sex appeal, attracting many eyes and exclamation marks “Dies ist das Opel Insignia OPC!”