CLASSIC SHRINE: OPEL'S FRUITS

This showcase of one of Germany's lesser appreciated marques is a hidden gem, with many of its 600 vehicles still in running condition

- CAMILLE PINET

The knowledge

Name Opel Museum

Address Friedrich-LutzmannRing 1, D-65423 Rüsselsheim

Where On site at the Opel factory; tours start at Adam Opel-Haus

How much? Prices vary according to group sizes

Opening hours Weekdays only; check COVID-19 restrictions

Tel [phone]

Email [e-mail]

Web opel.de/ueber-opel/opelwerkstour.html

In the heart of the Opel factory in western Germany hides an old building with a rough, industrial appearance. Yet this unassuming space houses an exceptional collection of vehicles that bear witness to the forgotten riches of this often-overlooked manufacturer's history.

Uwe Mertin is a busy man. The boss of Opel Classic, the marque's historic arm formed more than 20 years ago, has several plates spinning at any one time: supervising the maintenance of the ex-Walter Röhrl Ascona before it leaves for an exhibition; preparing five participants ahead of a historic rally; or even inspecting the final stages of the restoration of a 5CV built under licence from Citroën in 1924. With nearly 600 cars, motorbikes, trucks and bicycles, he is responsible for one of the largest and most impressive manufacturer collections. Better yet, some 90% of its cars are fully functioning, too.