Not many would know that what is popularly known as Opel is actually Adam Opel GmbH which is based in Germany and began its operations in 1863 but went on to produce automobiles only in 1899. Opel was acquired by General Motors in 1929 with the latter having 80% controlling stake in the German company. GM later increased the holding stake to 100% in 1931. In India, Opel started its innings by launching the Astra which did quite well. The Corsa range followed next with three body styles - 3-box sedan, estate and a hatchback, but unfortunately could not do good numbers. The luxury offering from Opel, Vectra, also bombed in the market. GM then phased out the Opel brand in 1993 and introduced the Chevrolet hoping that the change of brand would change its fortune as well. Which it did.