GT5 Transcripts/Opel Astra DTM

Germany's popular GT race, the DTM (Deutsch Tourenwagen Masters or German Touring Car Champioship) disappeared in 1996 when its was absorbed by the ITCC (International Touring Car Championship). But in 2000, the DTM resurfaced with a new format. On the grid at the opening race were the Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM, the Audi TT-R, and the Opel Astra V8 Coupe.
 * The Opel Astra was sold as the Vauxhall Astra in the UK.

Despite looking similar to the production V8 Coupe, Opel's DTM machine was an entirely different car, purpose built to the details. Under the hood was a 4.0-liter V-8 that cranked out 454 HP. It was mated to a heavy-duty sequential 6-speed gearbox that managed the power sent to the rear wheels. Weighing in at a lean 1000 kg, the Astra DTM was a proverbial road rocket.

Opel Team Phoenix finished 1-2 in both first and second races at Oschersleben, and registered yet another victory in the first race of the third round in Norisring. Opel temporarily stalled midway through the series, but regained its momentum at the end of the season. Although Opel missed winning the team championship, lead driver Manuel Reuter finished 2nd in the Driver's Championship. Opel's other drivers fared well, too, with a 5th and 6th palce finish by Joachim Winkelhock and Bruno Arnsten, respectively. Teams running the Opel race car placed 2nd and 4th in the Constructor's Championship.