Opel and Vauxhall are both automotive brands that have manufactured cars since 1899 and 1903 respectively.
For many years, casual observers have been confused about the difference between the two brands. This is largely because Vauxhall and Opel produce almost identical vehicle models today.
As the two brands have more or less the same model line-up, it can be hard to tell them apart.
This article aims to explain the difference between Vauxhall and Opel.
Background and History of Both Brands
Vauxhall
Vauxhall's story began in 1897, when the company started mass-producing marine engines and pumps.
Vauxhall built its first car in 1903 – a single-cylinder, 5hp model – after six years of producing engines and pumps. A 6hp version with reverse gear followed a year later.
The first major event in Vauxhall's corporate timeline occurred in 1925, when General Motors (GM) acquired Vauxhall for around $2 million. This is important to note when discussing the parallels between Vauxhall and Opel.
The takeover by an automotive giant boosted Vauxhall's manufacturing funds and expertise. However, after World War II, Vauxhall started to struggle with UK market demands and maintaining its production quality.
With the brand struggling, GM needed to take action to improve the Vauxhall brand – this is where Opel comes into play.
Opel
Adam Opel founded the Opel brand, producing sewing machines in a cowshed in Rüsselsheim, Germany.
Adam Opel died in 1894, and the business decided to move into car production. Sophie Opel, his wife, gave the green light to build the first Opel car in 1899.
The decision to move into car manufacturing proved successful. By 1929 – just four years after GM's purchase of Vauxhall – Opel was also acquired by General Motors.
The American giant recognised Opel's impact on the industry – evident in its market share in Germany – and became a major shareholder in one of the country's most popular car brands. This brought Opel and Vauxhall under the same corporate umbrella.
Whilst Vauxhall was struggling in the 1970s through a decline in quality, Opel was flourishing, building on the huge momentum gathered after the General Motors takeover.
As the 1970s went on, General Motors decided that all Vauxhall models would be designed by Opel from then on. This was due to Opel's stronger manufacturing efficiency and expertise compared with Vauxhall at the time.
As a result, the last British-made Vauxhall car was produced in 1972, with the British brand only providing small inputs to cater for the UK market.
Since then, both brands have operated alongside each other in mass vehicle production across Europe with much success.