Opala Summer, the controversial convertible

In the 1980s, Brazil experienced a peculiar reality in the automotive market. car import was practically prohibited due to government barriers, and the available options were restricted to local production by the few assemblers installed in the country, such as Chevrolet, Chrysler, Fiat, Ford and Volkswagen. Amidst this limitation, an alternative scenario emerged: small and medium manufacturers created exclusive models using fiberglass bodies mounted on national mechanical bases, mainly Volkswagen. In this context, some dealerships also began to modify new cars to offer more exclusive options to customers. This is how Curitiba-based Dipave Chevrolet brought to life the Opal Summer, a controversial convertible version of the iconic Opala.

An independent project

While the General Motors never considered mass-producing a convertible version of the Opala, Dipave Chevrolet saw an opportunity to stand out in the market. Inspired by a global trend, where conventional models were converted into convertibles by independent manufacturers, the dealership invested in a project that combined exclusivity and sophistication.

In Germany, where the Opala was born as Opel Rekord, the cabriolet version was manufactured outside Opel's facilities by Karmann, a company renowned for its experience in building convertibles – such as the famous Karmann Ghia. In Brazil, the Opala Summer followed a similar logic, being converted by hand and with a high standard of finish.

High costs and exclusivity

You Opal Summer were luxury cars in every sense. The conversion process involved structural reinforcements, adaptation of the bodywork and installation of a high-quality canvas top. All this work meant that the final price of the Opala Summer was around 50% more expensive than the conventional Opala models, which were already among the most expensive cars on the Brazilian market at the time. For comparison purposes, while a standard Opala cost around Cr$ 2 million (equivalent to approximately R$ 250 thousand in updated values), the Opala Summer could reach Cr$ 3 million (around R$ 375 thousand).

With such exclusivity, the Opala Summer attracted mainly high-income customers who were looking for something unique that could stand out in such a limited market. However, the high cost and lack of official support from Chevrolet made the model an acquisition for few.

Rarity and value in the current market

Because it was manufactured in small quantities, the Opala Summer became a rare and extremely valued car among classic vehicle collectors. Currently, a well-preserved specimen can exceed the range of R$ 500 thousand at auctions or negotiations between private individuals. This rarity also reflects the care that was required in the maintenance of the model, which required specialized work to preserve the integrity of the structure and the hood.

A controversial legacy

Although the Opala Summer's charm is undeniable, the model is also the target of criticism. Many purists consider that the transformation compromised the Opala's original DNA, while others see the initiative as an example of creativity and capacity for innovation in a period of great restriction in the national automotive market.

In any case, there is no denying that the Opala Summer occupied a special place in the history of Brazilian motorsports. It symbolizes a time when trade barriers forced the market to seek creative solutions, and also reflects consumers' desire for models that break away from the ordinary.

Conclusion: An icon of the past that lives in the present

Write about the Opal Summer in 2025 is to look back at an important part of our automotive history. It reminds us of a time when creativity and entrepreneurship were essential to overcome market challenges. Today, these rare examples still attract attention, whether at classic car shows or in private collections, reaffirming their iconic status.

If you are passionate about classic cars, the Opala Summer is a model that deserves your attention. With its unique history and exclusive design, it continues to delight generations, proving that the passion for automobiles is timeless. Who knows, by investing in an Opala Summer, you may also be acquiring a valuable piece of the past to preserve in the future.