We Cried For Our Friend in Opel Kadett E // Nürburgring

Summary

In this heartfelt video, the host takes an emotional ride in an Opel Cadet E, a car that holds significant memories from his childhood in Russia. He shares stories about his father's love for this vehicle as a symbol of newfound freedom after the fall of the Soviet Union. As they drive, they discuss the car's modifications and performance, evoking nostalgia for Opel's motorsport heritage. The experience becomes poignant as the host reflects on the loss of a close friend, intertwining joy and sorrow, making the drive a tribute to cherished memories and friendships.

Takeaways

• 😀 The car featured is an Opel Cadet E, which holds sentimental value as it was the speaker's father's first foreign car.
• 🚗 The speaker recalls their childhood in Russia before moving to the Netherlands and how foreign cars became more accessible after the Soviet Union fell.
• ⚙️ The car has a modified engine, described as a 'Frankenstein,' combining parts from different Opel models.
• 💪 The engine produces approximately 140 horsepower and 185 Nm of torque, which is impressive for a car from 1988.
• 🛠️ The car features a DIY big brake kit using components from Fiat and Alfa Romeo, enhancing its braking performance.
• 🌧️ The speaker acknowledges the wet conditions and the absence of traction control, which adds a layer of caution to driving.
• 📏 The car's weight is around 960 kg, contributing to its performance dynamics.
• ❤️ The driving experience evokes strong emotions, especially as the day coincides with the anniversary of the speaker's best friend's passing.
• 😢 The speaker reflects on memories shared with their late friend, highlighting their bond over cars and shared dreams.
• 🎉 Despite the emotional weight, the experience of driving the car brings immense joy and nostalgia.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Opel Cadet E to the speaker?

The Opel Cadet E is significant to the speaker as it was their father's first foreign car after the fall of the Soviet Union, marking a special memory from their childhood in Russia.

What modifications have been made to the Opel Cadet E's engine?

The engine is a combination of parts from different Opel models, featuring a 2.2L Opel Syra bottom and an Opel Cadet GSI head, resulting in approximately 140 horsepower and 185 Nm of torque.

Why does the speaker mention the year of the car, 1988?

The speaker highlights that the car is from 1988 to emphasize its age and how impressive its power output is for a vehicle of that era.

What type of brakes does the car have?

The car is equipped with a DIY big brake kit using 305 mm brake discs from a Fiat Coup and four-piston brake calipers from Alfa Romeo.

What tires are being used on the car during the drive?

The car is fitted with NS2R tires, which are performance tires suitable for the driving conditions mentioned.

What emotional significance does the day hold for the speaker?

The day marks the anniversary of the speaker's best friend's death, which adds a layer of emotion to the experience of driving the car.

How does the speaker feel while driving the Opel Cadet E?

The speaker expresses joy and excitement while driving, noting that they were smiling throughout the lap despite feeling emotional towards the end.

What is the next planned modification for the car?

The speaker plans to install a limited-slip differential (LSD) for improved handling and performance in the upcoming driving season.

What does the speaker say about the weight of the car?

The speaker mentions that the car weighs 960 kg, contributing to its performance characteristics.

What does the speaker say about their friend’s dreams?

The speaker reflects on their friend's ambition to become a mechanic at the Nürburgring, highlighting their friend's determination and the bond they shared over car-related projects.