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History Opel Laubfrosch

First german automobile in line production - click to enlarge!
Magnification




German version

Opel 4/12 HP
EngineIn-line four-cylinder
Displacement951 cm³
Bore * stroke58 * 90 mm
Compression7,0 : 1
CrankshaftDouble mounted
Engine controlSV
Mixture preparationCarburetor
Power9 kW (12 HP)
Nominal rotation speed2200 rpm
Power drive designFront engine with rear-wheel drive
TransmissionThree-speed, sliding gear
Suspension f/rRigid axle, leaf springs, quarter elliptical
Foot brakeRear wheels, mechanical
HandbrakeTransmission
Electrics12 V
Length3140 mm
Width1340 mm
Height1650 mm
Weight570 kg + driver
Maximum speedApprox. 70 km/h
PriceApprox. 4600 Rentenmark, 2500 RM
Construction period1924 - 1926
VersionFour seater since 1925


With this copy of the Citroen 5 CV as the only model Opel rises to a series producer and Germany receives (after the USA and France) for the first time an automobile assembly line production. At a time when the vehicles still changed a lot with basics, in any case is stolen a lot. Usually at or after the takeover however also developed significantly. For this Opel initially it is not the time. One has built a new factory and invested much money, which will first of all be generated.

At least the color is changed over from Citroen yellow to Opel green, what brings the 4/12 the name tree frog. Except in ignition, cooling and bore both cars are so similiar, despite slightly different measures, Citroen even goes to trial. Finally however, the tree frog from Opel is yet further developed and repealed as a copy. During this time, Citroen is one of the largest manufacturers in Europe, Opel's successes come later. 07/06





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