Ranger A. 1968–73 (prod. n/a). 2- and 4-door saloon, 5-door estate, 2-door coupé. F/R, 1897 cm³ (I4 CIH), 2125, 2507 cm³ (I4 OHV), 2490, 2784 cm³ (I6 CIH). Effectively two different cars, though both based on the Opel Rekord C. Belgian-built Rangers were facsimiles of the Opel originals, created to overcome tariffs there, while South African models were an attempt to create a unique car for that country, with components from the GM parts’ bin. Belgian models had Opel CIH engines, while South African models had Vauxhall Victor front suspension, Vauxhall grille (there had been a plan to badge these as Vauxhalls before one dealer group complained), 2·1- or 2·5-litre Chevrolet engines, optional Holden automatic transmission. Opel Rekord D-based Chevrolet 2500 took over in South Africa after GMSA made the decision to use one brand for all its vehicles there.

Manufacturing locations: Port Elizabeth, South Africa; Antwerp, Belgium; Biel, Switzerland

Marque: Ranger | Successors: Ranger B, Chevrolet 2500

q.v. Chevrolet Opala

Off-site link

• P. Clark: ‘The Ranger—part one: a lesson in corporate politics’, PDM Clark