Opel used to be a big brand in rally, and that made sure the "Old man with hat" syndrome stayed at arms length in many countries.

The intro of 4wd meant that Opel as well as many other brands stopped development of their 2wd cars, went into racing or stopped with motorsport. There are still many Ascona and Mantas being driven in rallies, but very few newer models, apart from some Kadett/Astra models.

The decision of Opel to do a comeback into the Rally arena, could be a commercial turning point for the brands Old Man With Hat syndrome.

If Opel is re opening its Rally Division of Opel Motorsport, many people still remember the brand out in the forrests, and would like to see it back!