[Video] Iconic Cars that shaped the South African Car History

South Africa’s motorsport history has rich background yet remains relatively unfamiliar, especially when it comes to BMW. Throughout the brand’s history, several BMW models have been available in South Africa only, especially back in the ’70s and ’80s, and they’ve all been incredible. Except, BMW does not sit at the top alone in impacting the South African car culture.

Another brand that shares this influence is the Opel, which has one specific car that overtook the BMW in the ’80s. And after thirty years, we get to see these two great influencers together in one video – the E30 BMW 325is Evo1 and Opel Kadett Superboss GSI 16v.

Being part of the Cars.co.za’s SentiMetal classic car collection, their beauty was once again restored and looks more amazing than ever. Behind the wheels were two South African racing drivers, who actually raced similar cars back in their day.

In this video, we get to see the incredible machine of the E30 BMW 325is Evo1. Exterior-wise, it comes in parallel with the E30 325is but is at par with the standard when it comes to the features under the skin. Powered by a 2.7 litre naturally-aspirated inline-six from an ALPINA C2 2.7, delivering 210 HP and 196 lb-fr of torque. Simultaneously, mated with a dog-leg five-speed manual, while the front suspension emanates from the E30 M3. Its hood, trunk, and door panels are all in aluminum to allow weight reduction. Therefore, making it a special piece of kit.

Meanwhile, the Opel Kadett Superboss GSI 16v is another SA-only edition, and has completely tuned itself appropriately. With a front-wheel drive that uses a 2.0 litre 16-valve four-cylinder GM engine, delivering 156 HP. Its front differential have been designed cleverly to minimize wheel spin and reduce unndersteer.

Bringing and seeing these two well-known South African sports car together is great enough. Not for competition, but only the joy of seeing them together.