The production Antara is a four-door, five-passenger crossover built on the corporate Theta platform, which also underpins the Chevrolet Equinox and the current Vue. Sister models to the Antara in other global markets include the recently unveiled Chevrolet Captiva and the Daewoo Winstorm.

The Antara will make its public debut this fall at the Paris Motor Show and will go on sale in Europe shortly after that, priced from around $34,000. Features include intelligent active four-wheel drive with electrohydraulic differential and stability control.

In Europe, Opel will market the Antara with a range of gas and diesel engines. When the vehicle heads to North America in late 2007, the engine lineup is expected to include a 140-horsepower DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a 224-hp DOHC 3.2-liter V6.

Unlike the Antara, which will be assembled in Korea by GM-Daewoo, the new Vue is expected to be built in Mexico.

What this means to you: Saturn’s new Vue will be truly global — engineered in Korea, built in Mexico and marketed in Germany.

The Opel Antara is a mid-size crossover SUV, which is based on the GM Theta platform. It is closely related to the Daewoo Winstorm (made in Korea by GM Daewoo, also sold as the Chevrolet Captiva), and shares the engine lineup with it, but has a different exterior and interior, as well as different exterior dimensions. The Antara is scheduled to be launched in the summer of 2007. In the UK, the model will be sold as Vauxhall Antara.

In Australia, this will be the top model of the Captiva lineup of the Holden brand, called Captiva MaXX. In the United States and Canada, the vehicle is known as the second generation Saturn VUE. In the Middle East, the vehicle is sold as the GMC Terrain[1]. In Mexico, it will be sold as the Chevrolet Captiva (unrealted to the European market version).

There is a new engine for the 2008 Opel Antara: a new 127 hp entry-level diesel engine. The 2008 Opel Antara Edition and Cosmo now come with Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) as standard and the 3.2 V6 Antara now comes with Automatic Leveling System (ALS) as standard.

The Antara was previously available with three engines: one 2.4-liter, 103 kW/140 hp, four-cylinder gasoline unit, one 2.0-liter 110 kW/150 hp common-rail turbo-diesel – the customers’ clear favorite – and one 3.2-liter V6 gasoline engine with 167 kW/227 hp, the top engine in the range. Opel now offers the 2.0 CDTI for the Antara and Antara Edition in a second, especially
economical variant with 93 kW/127 hp. Combined with the standard five-speed manual transmission, the efficient diesel unit with diesel particulate filter gives the elegant crossover an acceleration time of twelve seconds from zero to 100 km/h, and a top speed of 174 km/h.

To make the Antara even more attractive, Opel also enhanced its equipment: the Edition and Cosmo variants now both come with Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) as standard. This innovative system ensures that dangerous swinging when towing a trailer (due to side wind or a sudden turning)
is recognized quickly and reduced by electronic intervention. The Antara Edition now boasts a non-slip leather steering wheel and gear shift knob. The top Cosmo variant has heavily tinted heat-absorbing glazing in the rear. The Antara 3.2 V6 now comes with Automatic Leveling System (ALS) as standard, and the flat-folding front passenger seat is now a feature of the Edition and Cosmo packages.

The integrated carrier system Flex-Fix, familiar from the Corsa, is now also available for the Antara, making the Opel crossover even more versatile. The highly practical carrier system 2008 Opel Antara
stows away almost invisibly into the rear bumper. Just like other intelligent Opel systems such as Flex7 or FlexSpace, Flex-Fix also provides complete on-board functionality. So no parts need to be mounted or dismounted, and nothing need be stored away.

The integrated rear carrier can be extended easily and carry up to two bicycles or a specially designed transport box, which allows for an extra payload of up to 25 kilograms. The box has a capacity of 160 liters, is made from robust, watertight plastic and mounted with an integrated lock. The transport box is black ex works, but can be color-keyed by an Opel Service Partner.

For the 2002 DTM season Opel fine-tuned their Astra V8 Coupe to make it even more competitive. Much work has gone in the bodywork to ensure air splitting aerodynamics. Driver’s safety is very important in the DTM championship and in 2001 the series saw the introduction of the HANS (head and neck system) to protect driver’s head and neck in an accident. The added safety features still allow for a very quick exit from the car if needed, the Astra V8 Coupe can be exited by a fully strapped driver in under four seconds.

Opel Astra DTM

While the automobile market in both Europe and Germany has grown only slightly or even stagnated for a number of years, new registrations in the compact van segment have continuously increased. From 1999 to 2004, the compact vans’ share of the passenger car market in Europe climbed from 2.4 percent to more than seven percent. Forecasts predict further growth and levels of over ten percent in the year 2010. If the Meriva compact van segment is added, experts predict a share of the overall passenger car market as high as 17 to 18 percent in 2010.

Opel is well positioned with these monocabs and has strongly influenced this segment’s growing importance with pioneering innovations. The Zafira debuted in spring 1999 as the first seven-seat compact van with the Flex7 system’s fully retractable third row of seats. This was followed in the summer of 2000 by the Agila, the first microvan from a European manufacturer, and in 2003 by the Meriva with the multi-variable FlexSpace concept in the minivan segment.

The Opel Zafira is a compact MPV produced by Opel, a General Motors subsidiary. The Zafira is branded as Opel, Vauxhall, Holden and Chevrolet, depending on the market. In Japan, the Zafira was sold as Subaru Traviq.

The Zafira has seven seats arranged in 3 rows, the back row of which can be folded away easily to create more space, individually or together. At the time of its introduction, this was considered revolutionary, with most similar cars requiring that extra seats are physically removed from the vehicle if not required. The system was named Flex 7. However, older similar vehicles included a similar system, for example, the 2nd generation Mitsubishi Space Wagon.

Also called Vauxhall Zafira
Holden Zafira
Chevrolet Zafira
Chevrolet Nabira
Subaru Traviq
Production 1999-2004
Assembly Bochum, Germany
Rayong, Thailand
São José dos Campos, Brazil
Platform T-body
Engine(s) * 1.6L 100 hp I4
1.8L 125 hp I4
2.0L 200 hp I4
2.2L 146 hp I4
2.0L 100 hp I4
2.2L 125 hp I4
2.2L 147 hp I4

The first generation of Zafira is usually referred to as Zafira A, as is customary for Opel models. The car was based on the same platform as the 1998 Astra G/B and shared much in common with that car. The Zafira A body was used in GM’s concept hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicle the HydroGen3.

The Zafira A was replaced by Zafira B in Europe and Japan from 2005, but is still sold in most other markets, except for Australia and New Zealand, where the model was cancelled altogether.

* Opel Zafira – Europe (except for UK), South Africa, China, Singapore, Japan
* Vauxhall Zafira – United Kingdom
* Holden Zafira – Australia, New Zealand
* Chevrolet Zafira – Latin America, Mexico, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines
* Chevrolet Nabira – Malaysia
* Subaru Traviq – Japan

* Bochum, Germany
* Rayong, Thailand
* São José dos Campos, Brazil
* In Indonesia, assembly has taken place since 2003 in an unspecified location

The Zafira comes with a variety of engines adopted from the Astra. For Europe, there was a CNG-powered version and a 200 hp turbocharged version by the Opel Performance Center. In Brazil, the Zafira is also available with a flexible fuel engine.

European versions of the Zafira had these engines:

* 1.6/4-cylinder, 74 kW (100 bhp)
* 1.8/4-cylinder, 92 kW (125 bhp)
* 2.0 Turbo/4-cylinder, 147 kW (200 bhp)
* 2.2/4-cylinder, 108 kW (146 bhp)
* 2.0/4-cylinder turbodiesel, 74 kW (100 bhp)
* 2.2/4-cylinder turbodiesel, 92 kW (125 bhp)
* 2.2/4-cylinder turbodiesel, 107 kW (147 bhp)

Also called Vauxhall Zafira
Chevrolet Zafira
Production 2005–present
Assembly Bochum, Germany
Gliwice, Poland
Platform GM Delta platform
Engine(s) 2.0 L 240 hp I4
2.2L 150 hp I4
Transmission(s) 4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Wheelbase 106.4 in (2703 mm)
Length 175.9 in (4467 mm)
Width 70.9 in (1801 mm)
Height 64.4 in (1635 mm)
Related Opel Astra H/C

The Zafira B debuted in Europe in 2004, and sales started in 2005. It also shares the platform and mechanicals with the Astra, this time the H/C model.

In February 2006, Zafira B was launched in Singapore. By March 2006, the model had only been introduced in Europe, Singapore and Japan, superseding the previous Zafira and the Subaru Traviq, respectively. In April in Mexico and later in September 2006 in Chile, this model was introduced, branded as Chevrolet Zafira.

* Opel Zafira – Europe (except for UK), Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong
* Vauxhall Zafira – United Kingdom
* Chevrolet Zafira – Mexico and Chile

In Mexico the Zafira was discontinued after the 2006 model year due to poor sales, and replaced by the 5-passenger Chevrolet HHR.

It has so far been a huge sales success in the UK, proving even more popular than its predecessor. In 2006 it was the UK’s tenth best selling new car, proving more popular than the Vectra that just eight years earlier had been the brand’s best selling product.

* Bochum, Germany
* Gliwice, Poland

The Zafira B’s engine lineup is partly adopted from the previous Astra/Zafira generation, but Opel replaced the old 2.0 and 2.2 turbodiesel engines with 1.9 L common-rail turbodiesels developed by FIAT (Multijet). Opel Performance Center developed a turbocharged 240 hp 2.0 L performance version of the Zafira B as well. A CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) version of the new Zafira with a 1.6 L engine is also available.

Zafira B’s marketed in Europe are equipped with the following engines:

* 1.6/4-cylinder Twinport, 77 kW (105 bhp) – to be replaced by an improved, 115bhp version in 2008
* 1.8/4-cylinder, 103 kW (140 bhp)
* 2.0 Turbo/4-cylinder, 147 kW (200 bhp)
* 2.2/4-cylinder, 110 kW (155 bhp)
* 2.0 Turbo/4-cylinder, 177 kW (240bhp)
* 1.9/4-cylinder turbodiesel, 74 kW (100 bhp)
* 1.9/4-cylinder turbodiesel, 88 kW (120 bhp)
* 1.9/4-cylinder turbodiesel, 110 kW (150 bhp)

General Motors will exhibit the Opel Gran Turismo Coupe (GTC) concept at the Geneva Motor Show this week. Powered by a 300 horsepower turbocharged V6, the all-wheel-drive GTC is based on the next-generation Vectra’s platform.

Given Opel’s close ties to Saturn, it’s safe to assume the concept will be relevant to the American brand, too.

It’s not known hose closely the GTC reflects the new Vectra’s design direction. It’s also unclear if Opel plans to offer Vectra coupe. A two-door called the Opel Calibra was offered between 1989 and 1997, based directly on the Vectra.

Opel took the official wraps off their new hotness, the Gran Turismo Concept, and if there’s anything that could get Opel’s sexyback, this is it. As far as concepts go, it’s not the most radical design, but it probably gives the best hint at the future of the Opel abroad and possibly Saturn here at home. It’s a stunner and now we’ve got live pics. Check ‘em in the gallery and keep coming back for more from Geneva as the day progresses.

On the eve of the first press day of the Geneva Motor Show, General Motors’ European subsidiary, Opel, unveiled its GTC concept car that strongly hints at the next-generation Vectra and, according to GM’s European head of design, Bryan Nesbitt, speaks a new design language for Opel in the future.

Saturn is basing its vehicles on Opel models and Opel designs. And vice versa. The Aura, which won the 2007 North American Car of the Year award from journalists, is based on the Vectra. Saturn unveiled the Astra small car at the Chicago auto show last month; it sprang from the Opel of the same name. Saturn’s upcoming Vue is patterned after the Opel Antara crossover. And the soon-to-go-on-sale Opel GT in Europe is based on the Saturn Sky (and Pontiac Solstice).

Opel (Vauxhall in the U.K.) and Saturn are on similar tracks to success. Saturn, last month, reported a 60-percent increase in sales. GM, as it is in the U.S., is trying to reduce the number of fleet vehicles sold by Opel/Vauxhall in Europe and, instead, focus on retail sales. Opel/Vauxhall accounted for 78 percent and 1.56 million units of GM’s European sales. For the first time in history, GM hit the 2-million mark for European sales in 2006.

The Opel Speedster is a British-built roadster produced from 2001 to 2005 by Lotus for General Motors’s subsidiary Opel and was also badged as Vauxhall VX220 for the UK market. In addition, South Korea’s GM-Daewoo has also had Speedsters displayed with the Daewoo badge, although only one was built to be used for marketing purposes.

The Speedster has a lot in common with the Lotus Elise, yet Opel claims few parts are interchangeable. Both are characterized by strong performance and superb handling. Since the beginning of production, the Speedster and VX220 were powered by GM’s 2.2 L 16-valve Ecotec L61 engine producing 147 hp ECE (108 kW).

Since 2003, they are also available with a 2.0 L turbocharged version of this engine producing 200 hp ECE (147 kW). Thanks in part to the car’s light weight, the turbo version is able to reach a top speed of 242 km/h (151 mph) and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.9 seconds.

The Speedster utilizes an aluminum and carbon fiber chassis tub that weighs only 150 pounds, the entire car weighs in at only 2050 pounds, much lighter than most small sports cars. With its low weight, mid-mounted engine, high torisional rigidity, and ample horsepower, the car is extremely quick and agile.

The base price was around €32,000 for the 2.2 and €36,000 for the turbocharged version

Specifications

General
Manufacturer Opel
Model Speedster 2.0 Turbo 2003
Powertrain Layout Mid Engine / RWD
Base Price Not Available
Dimensions
Length 3786 mm / 149.1 in
Width 1708 mm / 67.2 in
Height 1117 mm / 44.0 in
Wheelbase 2330 mm / 91.7 in
Weight 1005 kg / 2,216 lbs
Front / Rear Track F 1450 mm / 57.1 in
R 1488 mm / 58.6 in
Engine
Configuration 2.0 Liter Turbo Ecotec Inline 4
Valvetrain DOHC 4 Valves / Cylinder
Displacement 1998 cc / 121.9 cu
Power 149.1 kW / 199.9 bhp at 5500 rpm
Torque 250 Nm / 184.4 ft lbs at 1950 rpm
Bore 86 mm / 3.4 in
Stroke 86 mm / 3.4 in
Compression Ratio 8.8:1
Bhp / Liter 100.1 bhp
Redline Not Available
Chassis & Body
Body / Frame Lightweight Bonded Aluminium
Steering Rack & Pinion w/ Shock-Absorber
Brake Type Vented Discs & ABS
Brake Size F 288 mm / 11.3 in
R 288 mm / 11.3 in
Wheels F 43.2 x 14 cm / 17.0 x 5.5 in
R 43.2 x 19.1 cm / 17.0 x 7.5 in
Tyres F 175/55R-17
R 225/45R-17
Transmission
Gear Type 5 Speed Manual
Final Drive 3.95:1
1st Gear Ratio 3.58:1
2nd Gear Ratio 2.02:1
3rd Gear Ratio 1.35:1
4th Gear Ratio 0.97:1
5th Gear Ratio 0.79:1
Performance
Top Speed 243.0 kph / 151 mph
0 – 62 mph 4.9 seconds
0 – 100 mph Not Available
0 – ¼ mile Not Available
EPA City / Highway Not Available

While the GTC boasts output up to 200 hp and a top speed up to 234 km/h, its striking design includes sporty proportions, a sleek silhouette with an arched, sloping roofline and pronounced tapering of the front and rear overhangs. Its body is 15 mm lower, magnifying the car’s powerful look. The expressively designed body is completely new – only the hood and front fender were taken over from the five-door Astra. The GTC’s unique character is accentuated by an optional panorama windshield – offered for the first time in a production model – which extends from the hood up to the B-pillar and creates a whole new sense of space and visibility. The panorama windshield makes its world premiere in the GTC and is available beginning in April.

The Astra GTC’s dynamic looks turn into action on the road, thanks to its specially tuned IDS chassis (Interactive Driving System) with ESPPlus, traction control and ABS brake system with brake assist. The adaptive chassis system IDSPlus, with electronic damping control (CDC – Continuous Damping Control) and the networking of all electronic chassis systems, is available as an option. With IDSPlus, GTC drivers can also activate a sport set-up at the touch of a button located in the cockpit. This regulates damper adjustment as well as accelerator-pedal and power steering response. In conjunction with automatic and Easytronic transmissions, gear shift points are also modified.

At market launch, the Astra GTC comes with a wide range of fuel-efficient and powerful ECOTEC engines to choose from: five gasoline units (1.4 – 2.0-liter displacements, 90 –
200 hp) and four CDTI common-rail turbo-diesel engines (1.3 – 1.9-liter displacements,
90 – 150 hp). Both the 2.0-liter top-of-the-line power unit, with output of 147 kW (200 hp) and the 1.9 CDTI diesel with 110 kW (150 hp) are a perfect fit to the Astra GTC’s dynamic character. These two engines come with a six-speed transmission and are really fun to drive. The 200 hp Astra GTC Turbo sprints from zero to 100 km/h in just 7.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 234 km/h. The 150 hp 1.9 CDTI is among the most powerful diesel engines in the compact class. The unit develops maximum torque of 320 Nm at only
2000 rpm, has a top speed of 210 km/h and goes from zero – 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds.

All ECOTEC engines comply with the Euro 4 emissions standard, and the two more powerful CDTI diesel units are also available with an optional maintenance-free diesel particulate filter (DPF). Innovative TWINPORT technology, for the Astra GTC’s 1.4-liter
and 1.6-liter four-valve gasoline engines, is a further plus for the environment, reducing fuel consumption by up to ten percent under normal driving conditions. All gasoline engines up to 1.8-liter displacements and the 1.7 CDTI come standard with a five-speed manual transmission, while the 1.3 CDTI, the two 1.9 CDTI turbo-diesels and both 2.0-liter turbo gasoline units are delivered ex-works with a six-speed transmission (optional for
1.7 CDTI). Easytronic automated five-speed manual transmission (1.6-liter gasoline models) or a four-speed automatic (1.8-liter gasoline models) are available on request.

The new GTC is offered in four model lines – besides the entry-level version these are Edition, Sport and Cosmo. Standard equipment includes the comprehensive SAFETEC safety system with IDS chassis including ESPPlus, TCPlus, ABS and brake assist as well as front, thorax/pelvis side and head curtain airbags. SAFETEC also features de-coupling pedals (PRS – Pedal Release System), active head restraints in front and three height-adjustable head restraints in the rear. All GTC versions also boast comfortable features like Easy Entry and memory function for the front seats, adjustable and heatable power exterior mirrors, power windows, cruise control, remote-control central locking, a pollen filter and 16-inch wheels.

The new Astra GTC owes its unique, powerful look to its sporty proportions (length/width/
height: 4290/2033/1435 millimeters). The dynamic, V-shaped front end with the Opel logo on a crossmember in the radiator grille, along with the characteristic crease flowing from the hood into the passenger cabin to the rear, clearly identify the GTC as a member of the Astra family. V-shaped tapering much more pronounced than the five-door model’s, the newly designed bumper, a modified radiator grille and larger air inlets give the GTC an individual and unmistakable face. Although the front appears wider, thanks to a reduced frontal area and a slightly improved drag coefficient (cD =0.32), the GTC is roughly four percent more aerodynamic (cD x A = 0.66 m2) than its five-door counterpart.

The newcomer is no less distinctive from the rear. Here lamps consisting of two blocks mounted on chromed surfaces are among the GTC’s striking features. The chromed surfaces magnify the taillights, making them even more clearly visible to drivers approaching from behind.

The Astra GTC’s profile is dominated by its broad shoulders and strongly contoured side sills, as well as the characteristic arched sloping roofline. Together with the angular rear side windows, this creates a particularly taut profile. All this is further underscored by black B-pillars, which blend in with the side windows, giving the impression of a single uniform surface.

The GTC achieves its sporty look without compromise in terms of everyday functionality and spaciousness. Thanks to a sporty low seating position, headroom is only slightly less than in the five-door model. The GTC has the same wheelbase (2.61 meters) and luggage compartment volume (380 liters) as the five-door Astra. The rear seat backs can be folded down in a 60:40 split (optionally 40:20:40) for more flexible use of interior space. Even though the designers snugly pulled in the side windows to give the body-shoulder more tightness, the GTC seats three adults in the rear.

The new GTC is manufactured in the Belgian Astra plant in Antwerp. Like the other two Astra plants, located in Bochum (Germany) and Ellesmere Port (England), these production facilities were modernized at a total investment volume of one billion euro, to also ensure the carmaker’s high quality standards for the newest Opel model.

The fact that GTC buyers – like all Opel customers – get a top-quality product is underlined by the two-year manufacturer’s warranty that Opel offers instead of the customary compulsory version. Opel also grants a 12-year anti-perforation warranty.
Cost of ownership is further minimized by high value retention, long service intervals, low maintenance volumes and service-friendly design.

For 2005, production of the Astra GTC is planned at a capacity of around 60,000 units. Opel´s marketing experts expect that the GTC will make up 13 to 16 percent of total Astra sales, depending on the country.

* Unique Astra variant with expressive styling
* Sporty proportions, a sleek silhouette and muscular shoulders
* World premiere: Panorama windshield creates new sense of space and visibility

With its expressive and decidedly dynamic design, the GTC is the most dramatic interpretation yet of the Astra´s design language. It is the third model in Opel’s new-generation compact class, following the five-door hatchback and the station wagon. Its most notable features are its sporty proportions (length/width including exterior mirrors/
height: 4290/2033/1435 millimeters), its short looking overhangs, and, most important of all, the muscular shoulders and the sleek silhouette, making the GTC look as if it’s crouched and ready to leap.

The GTC’s unique position within the Astra model line is emphasized by the fact that all the body parts except the engine hood, front fenders, headlights, door handles and mirrors are new. Even stronger proof is that the new three-door Astra is the first production model with a “panoramic windshield”. Opel exhibited a similarly attractive windshield back in the spring of 2003 on the “GTC Genève” study at the Geneva Motor Show.

The more extreme tapering in of the front and rear ends is one feature that adds emotion to the GTC’s interpretation of the Astra’s formal idiom, with its harmonious combination of taut surfaces and striking lines. The GTC’s body is 41 mm longer than the five-door Astra, which in combination with its sleek silhouette makes it look even more athletic. The lightness of the delicate roof is a formal element, and an optical illusion is achieved at the same time: The bumper lines, which extend over the car’s entire width, and the slimmer radiator grille make the engine hood look wider. In fact, the GTC has a slightly smaller frontal area and a lower drag coefficient (cD = 0.32) resulting in around four percent better aerodynamics (cD x A = 0.66 m2) than the five-door model´s.

Another characteristic styling element of the GTC is its arch-shaped, falling roof line. In combination with the windows, which come to a point at the rear, it gives the styling with extra tension when seen from the side. The stretched, elegant windows look as if they were made in one piece. This impression is created by the GTC’s black B pillars. In addition to the shoulder, which dominates from every perspective and no matter where the light comes from, the powerful modeled sills are striking elements when looking at the car from the side. They make the center of gravity of the lowered body look even lower.

The GTC achieves its sporty look without compromise in terms of everyday functionality and spaciousness. Thanks to a sporty low seating position, headroom is only slightly less than in the five-door model. Moreover, the GTC has the same wheelbase (2.61 meters) and luggage compartment volume (380 liters) as the five-door Astra. The rear seat backs can be folded down in a 60:40 split (optionally 40:20:40) for more flexible use of interior space. Even though the designers snugly pulled in the side windows to give the body-shoulder more tightness, the GTC seats three adults in the rear. Rear legroom is 890 mm. Everybody who travels in a GTC feels as if they are wearing a sporty, tailor-made suit, due largely to the slightly increased slope of the windows and the lower seat position.

The new Astra GTC also features very dramatic rear end styling. This is emphasized by the roof, which is shorter and drawn in significantly more than on the five-door Astra, and by the striking rear lights. These are one of the GTC’s unmissable highlights: they wrap around a long way toward the front, combining the rear and side graphic elements with the roofline on both sides. The light units consist of two colored blocks (anthracite at the top, red at the bottom) and look as if they float freely under a transparent glass cover. The special highlight here is that the chrome surface underneath the three-dimensionally shaped blocks makes them look slim and enlarges the light surface like a mirror at the same time. This improves the visibility of the flashers, brake lights and other lights for those who drive behind the GTC.

Despite all these unique features, the GTC is clearly recognizable as a member of the dynamic, successful Astra family. The V-shaped front end, the Opel “lightning flash” positioned on a chrome bar on the radiator grille and the “crease” are shared characteristics. The prominent crease quotes a classic Opel styling element, extending from the hood to the interior and then to the rear end like a continuous thread.

Like the other Astra models, the new GTC’s interior features dynamic shapes, high-quality surface ‘feel’ and top-quality materials. A whole new sense of space is provided by the optional panorama windshield (start of production: April 2005), implemented for the first time on a series-production car and available exclusively for the GTC.

The driver and front passenger enjoy a view as if from a sport airplane’s cockpit – almost limitless freedom when looking out of the car. The 1.50 meter long and 1.16 meter wide windshield, made of heat-insulating Solar Protect glass, seamlessly extends from the hood up into the roof as far as the B-pillar, without any cross-beam to obstruct the view. This panoramic view makes driving in the mountains or in a brightly illuminated big city at night a very special experience for all the GTC’s occupants.

At daytime, a sophisticated shading system protects occupants – in addition to the Solar Protect glass – from too much sun. The stepless adjustable system is located in a space-saving fashion under the steel roof, is extremely easy to operate and includes two fold-out sun visors.

The panorama windshield is also an eye-catcher from outside, as it flows into the adjacent, black laquered steel roof, creating a visually integrated surface.

• Top speeds of up to 234 km/h and 0 – 100 km/h acceleration in 7.8 seconds
• Choice of nine diesel and gasoline engines with power outputs of up to 200 hp
• TWINPORT and Common Rail technologies reduce fuel consumption

The two top-of-the-line engines available for the GTC are the perfect match for the dynamic, sporting properties of the most athletic Astra model: The 200 hp 2.0-liter Turbo gasoline engine and the 150 hp 1.9 CDTI – one of the most powerful diesel engines in its class. The big range of state-of-the-art diesel and gasoline engines proves that the Astra GTC is not only made for drivers interested in ample power but is also an attractive offer for all other customers, thanks to its expressive styling. All nine ECOTEC engines have four cylinders with four valves per cylinder, comply with the Euro 4 exhaust emission standard and combine high performance with low fuel consumption.

The top-of-the-line 147 kW (200 hp) engine makes the new Astra GTC one of the fastest cars in the compact segment. The 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine enables maximum speed of 234 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in just 7.8 seconds. For the sprint from 80 – 120 km/h in fifth gear the 200 hp GTC Turbo needs only 0.1 seconds longer. This superb elasticity is due to the torque characteristic: 250 Nm are available over a broad rev band from as low as 1950 min-1 and the peak value of 262 Nm is reached at 4200 min-1. The ECOTEC Turbo offers this performance at moderate fuel consumption of 9.3 liters per 100 kilometers.

The 125 kW (170 hp) version of the modern 2.0-liter Turbo engine also offers lots of acceleration and pulling power while consuming even less fuel (9.0 liters per 100 km). Maximum torque of 250 Nm is provided between 1950 and 4000 min-1. The 170 hp
Astra GTC accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and has a maximum speed
of 220 km/h.

Both 2.0-liter engines feature Opel’s typical turbo technology, which combines the exhaust manifold, turbine housing and other components into a single module to save space and weight. The engines are supplied as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The third gasoline engine option is the 1.8-liter 92 kW (125 hp) ECOTEC unit with a maximum torque of 170 Nm. It is combined with a five-speed manual gearbox as standard, a four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. The performance and consumption figures for the Astra GTC 1.8 are: Top speed of
200 km/h (190 km/h with automatic transmission), acceleration from a standstill to
100 km/h in 10.7 seconds (11.7 s) and a fuel consumption of 7.7 liters per 100 kilometers (8.1 liters/100 km).

Innovative, fuel-saving TWINPORT technology is the key to the particularly low fuel consumption and good performance of the two other gasoline engines available for the GTC. TWINPORT was developed specifically for four-valve gasoline engines with displacements of up to 1.6 liters and reduces fuel consumption by up to ten percent in real-life conditions with the help of a variabl

The 1.6 TWINPORT engine has a power output 77 kW (105 hp) and delivers maximum torque of 150 Nm. In combination with the standard five-speed manual gearbox, the Astra GTC 1.6 TWINPORT requires 6.6 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. It accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 12.2 seconds and its maximum speed is 187 km/h. This engine is also available with the Easytronic five-speed automatic-shift gearbox, which reduces fuel consumption to 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers. For dynamic driving styles, Easytronic has a special sport program with all the shift points moved up into the upper, more powerful engine speed range for more dynamic shifting.

The 66 kW (90 hp) 1.4-liter TWINPORT unit with a maximum torque of 125 Nm has even lower fuel consumption, at 6.3 liters per 100 kilometers. The performance figures for the Astra GTC 1.4 TWINPORT, which is always combined with a five-speed manual gearbox, reaches a top speed of 180 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.6 seconds.

The four common rail turbo-diesel engines for the GTC, which all comply with the Euro 4 exhaust emission standard, show that powerful but economical diesel engines are becoming a more and more important factor at Opel. The two most powerful CDTI units are available with an optional, maintenance-free diesel particulate filter (DPF) system that runs without additives.

The top-of-the-line GTC diesel engine is the 110 kW (150 hp) 1.9 CDTI that develops a maximum torque of 320 Nm between 2000 and 2750 min-1. It comes with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, enables maximum speed of 210 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 8.9 seconds. Fuel consumption is as low as 5.8 liters per 100 km.

The 88 kW (120 hp) version of the state-of-the-art CDTI turbo-diesel has the same low fuel consumption, high dynamics and smooth running characteristics, which is mainly due to the latest-generation common rail multiple injection. The 120 hp 1.9 CDTI provides maximum torque of 280 Nm between 2000 and 2750 min-1 and accelerates the Astra GTC from a standstill to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds and to a maximum speed of 193 km/h.

The 74 kW (100 hp) 1.7-liter CDTI is equipped with a variable turbo-charger and delivers maximum torque of 240 Nm. It accelerates the Astra GTC from 0 to 100 km/h in
12.2 seconds and enables maximum speed of 182 km/h. Fuel consumption is 5.0 liters of diesel per 100 km. The 1.7 CDTI comes with a five-speed gearbox as standard, and a six-speed manual gearbox is available as an optional extra.

The entry-level diesel engine is a newly developed 1.3 CDTI with 66 kW (90 hp) and maximum torque of 200 Nm. The state-of-the-art CDTI unit featuring latest-generation common rail multiple injection and a variable turbo-charger enables a top speed for the Astra GTC of 174 km/h and 0 – 100 km/h acceleration in 13.6 seconds. The Astra GTC
1.3 CDTI needs only 4.8 liters of diesel per 100 km and comes with a six-speed gearbox as standard.

* Unique in the compact class: IDSPlus system with electronic damping control
* Sporty: GTC with lowered body and modified suspension
* Helpful: Many additional functions for more active safety and comfort

Exceptional agility, driving safety and great comfort – these were the most important criteria for Opel’s engineers when they chose the suspension settings for the new Astra GTC. In accordance with its positioning as the most expressive and dynamic model in the new-generation Astra line, the GTC has been designed to convey its qualities not only visually, but also in every aspect of its road behavior.

In order to emphasize the third Astra generation’s dynamic lines and proportion even more, the body has been lowered by 15 millimeters compared to the five-door hatchback by shortening the springs. The next step the engineers took was to modify the spring and shock absorber ratings. Depending on the engine, they increased the spring rate by four or five rate points. Opel’s suspension specialists also tuned the dampers to make them slightly firmer. The GTC, which comes with 16-inch wheels as standard, feels even more sportive, with more responsive steering and less body roll than the five-door Astra. This enhanced sports character was not achieved by an inappropriate decrease in comfort – the GTC reaches approximately the same level of ride comfort as the five-door model with the optional sports suspension.

The ideal starting point for the GTC’s fine tuning was the new model generation’s IDS suspension (Interactive Driving System), which has been much praised by experts and Astra drivers. In addition to the ESPPlus electronic stability program, the TCPlus traction control, ABS anti-lock brake system and the fuel-saving EHPS Electro Hydraulic Power Steering, it has MacPherson front suspension struts and a hydro-formed suspension sub-frame with decoupled support bearings and weight-dependent spring rates, both of which increase ride comfort. The rear wheels are located by a specially adapted torsion crank axle of double-walled U section. This design combines the advantages of conventional twist-beam rear axles such as low space requirement, low weight, and high resistance to camber angle changes with scope for exact tuning to the specific requirements of different cars within a model line.

A 15-inch brake system (16-inch on models with more powerful engines) with disks at on all wheels ensures good deceleration values in all driving situations. In case of an emergency stop, a Brake Assistant boosts brake pressure and keeps stopping distances to a minimum.

In addition a special sport chassis is available for the Astra GTC, featuring a rear axle tuned for maximum dynamics. The IDS sport chassis is standard on the GTC Sport and can be ordered for all engines with a power output of 74 kW (100 hp) or more. It is always combined with the so called SportSwitch (see below).

While the GTC’s basic suspension already offers exemplary road behavior, the adaptive IDSPlus suspension system available as an optional extra for the new Astra generation sets new and even higher standards in road dynamics and active safety. Numerous high-tech solutions make this possible, including networking the sensors and control units of all the road dynamics systems together to create an integrated suspension control system. The various control units are networked via three innovative CAN bus systems (Controller Area Network) with a data transmission rate of 500 kilobits per second.

An essential element of the IDSPlus concept is the CDC (Continuous Damping Control) system, which used to be available only for exclusive luxury and sports cars before its introduction in the compact car category on the new Astra. CDC adjusts the characteristics of the four shock absorbers, which are controlled by solenoid valves, steplessly and continuously to match road conditions, vehicle movements and driving style. The controlled damping always offers the highest possible ride comfort, improves wheel grip in all driving situations and helps reduce braking distances.

The driver more agile suspension settings with an extremely active driving characteristic can be selected from the driving seat with the SportSwitch (standard with IDSPlus and on the GTC Sport). Activating the sports mode influences the shock absorber settings (only on IDSPlus), steering and accelerator pedal response and the shift points for the automatic transmission or Easytronic automated-shift gearbox. The driver can also choose to switch off ESPPlus.

Opel’s engineers have developed even more functions for the new Astra generation which are genuinely useful for everyday driving situations and increase active safety even further. They include:

* Understeer Control Logic (UCL): In an understeer situation, speed is decreased by releasing the accelerator first, then braking both front wheels. When the ESP control range is reached, brake pressure decreases at the outer front wheel and increases at the inside rear wheel until the car is back on the chosen line.
* Hill-Start-Assist (HSA): This system makes driving off on uphill gradients more convenient and prevents the car from rolling back without having to apply the handbrake. Brake pressure is held for 1.5 seconds after releasing the brake pedal so that the driver has ample time to select a gear and push down the accelerator pedal. The brake pressure is released as soon as sufficient drive torque is detected.
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): This system detects tire pressure deviations to an accuracy of 0.1 bar, using a special sensor in every wheel and – a worldwide first – the DDS function. The signals are sent to a central receiver inside the car, with the tire pressure value visible on the on-board computer display. If the tire pressure is 0.3 bar below a predetermined value, a warning message appears.
* Deflation Detection System (DDS): With the help of the wheel speed sensors, a warning lamp notifies the driver if a wheel’s rolling circumference decreases as a consequence of a drop in tire pressure, which would cause that wheel to rotate faster than the others. The system is designed so that the warning occurs when approximately 30 percent of the pressure has been lost. As the DDS system does not require special tire sensors, it complements the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, for instance if winter tires with no TPMS sensors are fitted.

Numerous crash simulations and real tests show that the innovative panorama windshield system in no way impairs safety or stability. All results confirm that there are no noteworthy differences to the steel roof three-door model, thanks to the GTC’s rigid A and B-pillars, an additional crossmember in the middle of the roof and the sturdy floor assembly. All tests regarding body rigidity had similar positive results.

A highly rigid, deformation-resistant body forms a basis for the safety of the third-generation Astra and therefore of the new Astra GTC. These features create an equally strong foundation for the comprehensive SAFETEC safety system, which has received high praise from an independent source: During crash tests carried out by the Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Program) consumer protection organization, the five-door Astra was awarded the maximum five-star ranking for occupant protection.

The well thought-out SAFETEC concept is based on the interaction of all standard active and passive safety features, including the following:

* IDS chassis (Interactive Driving System) with ESPPlus Electronic Stability Program and TCPlus traction control
* ABS with brake assist, CBC Cornering Brake Control and four disk brakes
* Front and thorax/pelvis side airbags for driver and front seat passenger, head curtain airbags in front and for outer rear seats
* Active head restraints in front, height-adjustable
* Three height-adjustable head restraints in rear
* Three-point safety belts for all seats, height-adjustable in front
* Belt force limiter and pyrotechnical belt buckle pretensioners in front
* Side impact protection
* Safety steering column (height and reach-adjustable)
* Automatic release safety pedals PRS (Pedal Release System)
* Mountings for ISOFIX child’s seat system on outer rear seats
* Automatic activation of hazard warning blinkers and unlocking of doors after airbag or belt tensioner is triggered.

Driving safety is improved even more with innovative technologies that were never available in this quantity in the compact car segment before the start of the new generation Astra. Of particular note are the IDSPlus chassis system with electronic damping control and the networking of all dynamic driving systems and the steering-linked AFL-headlamp system (Adaptive Forward Lighting) with bi-xenon lamps and dynamic curve and adaptive highway light functions. Other important safety features include the automatic ALC (Automatic Lighting Control) low-beam headlight system, a rain sensor, the Quickheat heating system that prevents windows from fogging over again when the ice has been scratched off and heats the interior faster, and TPMS (the Tire Pressure Monitoring System).

* Production plants have been extensively modernized for the new model generation
* Astra’s excellent value retention underlines its high quality and pays off for the customer
* Repair-friendly design, affordable insurance grouping

Improving the quality of their products has been a top priority for Opel in recent years, and this systematic process is paying off, as confirmed by the excellent results achieved by Opel models in numerous competitive tests and independent quality surveys.

In the latest quality report published in the German car magazine “AUTO BILD”,
Opel is rated the best German and European manufacturer. The quality report is published twice a year and is regarded as the most comprehensive survey of its kind. It contains evaluations of the 20 leading car brands’ long-term quality, reliability and customer satisfaction in Germany. In addition to a representative survey among some 25,000 drivers, the assessment includes the results from seven million TÜV (German Technical Inspection Organization) tests, manufacturers’ workshop and service quality, their warranties and AUTO BILD’s own long-term test experiences.

The result of the German J.D. Power customer satisfaction study is also very positive: Opel gained a CSI value (Customer Satisfaction Index) of 79.0 percent – above the average of all other brands. It is particularly pleasing that the previous Astra generation had a CSI of 80.1 percent, making it the German compact model with the best ranking.

The new Astra generation will no doubt be even more successful, and each of the new GTC models will contribute to this. GTC production started at the beginning of the year in the Astra plant in Antwerp (Belgium), where it is built alongside the five-door hatchback and the station wagon. The planned production volume for the GTC is 60,000 units in 2005.

Like the entire Astra model line, the GTC satisfies the highest quality, reliability and longevity demands. This is based on the new model generation’s solid design and the extensively modernized production facilities: GM/Opel have invested a total of one billion Euro for this purpose in the Astra plants in Bochum (Germany), Ellesmere Port (England) and Antwerp. Furthermore, quality management within the GM/Opel production system was further improved, staff underwent intensive training and a number of strict quality checks were added to the manufacturing process.

The two-year manufacturer’s warranty for new cars that Opel offers in place of the legally required, basic guarantee underlines the fact that GTC drivers, like all Opel’s customers, buy a high-quality car.

Astra buyers also make the right choice in terms of “re-sale value”. Thanks not least to its excellent retention of value, the Astra is at the top of its segment. Just weeks after the new model line had been introduced, the Eurotax Schwacke market observation company, for instance, forecast a remaining value of 51 percent of the purchasing price after 36 months and a mileage of 60,000 kilometers.

The new Astra GTC not only has excellent resale value – cost of ownership is minimized by low fuel consumption, long service intervals and minimum maintenance requirements, too. The inspection is due only after up to two years or up to 30,000 or 50,000 kilometers for gasoline- and diesel-engined models respectively. Customers also benefit from the Astra’s repair-friendly design and the resulting low workshop costs and short standstill times. Other advantages, like the possible replacement of damaged parts individually and the use of bolted rather than welded joints in many crash-relevant locations also pay off for the customer in the form of advantageous insurance premiums. Those for the five-door Astra, for instance, are as much as 20 percent lower than those for its predecessor. Insurance experts have signaled that similar rates will be offered to GTC owners.

* Individual: Every model has its own distinct character
* Customer-oriented: Practical packages and many sensible extras
* Helpful: Many practical functions make everyday driving easier

Tailor-made Offer with Four Model Lines
With its choice of powerful engines, agile suspension and expressive styling, the new GTC is a perfect example of the new dynamics now to be found in the compact car category.
In addition to the entry-level version, the GTC is also available in the Edition, Sport and Cosmo model lines. These four lines differ in their optical and functional details and each has its own character (see the detailed overview at the end of this chapter). This customer orientation makes it easy for GTC buyers to find the version that best meets their requirements and personal tastes.

All Astra GTC versions feature extensive standard equipment including the exemplary SAFETEC safety system and many items that enhance comfort and convenience, such as electrically adjustable, heated outside mirrors, power windows with anti-trap protection, an Easy Entry system for the front seats with memory function, cruise control, tinted windows, a height and reach adjustable steering column, electro-hydraulic power steering, seat height adjustment for the driver and a central locking system with radio-operated remote control. Standard equipment also includes another convenient function: The “Follow-Me-Home” light keeps the headlamps on for 30 seconds in a dark drive or garage, for instance, after the occupants have left the car. The Astra GTC Edition, Sport and Cosmo feature in addition air conditioning and an audio system with CD player.

Functional features, which are also available separately, and around 50 other optional extras offer further scope for customizing. In addition, buyers can benefit from price advantages when ordering from the choice of equipment packages. And: Optional extras for the GTC include a range of innovative technologies that were never available in this quantity in the compact car segment before the start of the new generation Astra.

Of particular note are the IDSPlus chassis system with electronic damping control and the networking of all dynamic driving systems and the steering-linked AFL-headlamp system (Adaptive Forward Lighting) with bi-xenon lamps and dynamic curve and adaptive highway light functions. Exclusively available for the GTC is a panorama windshield, having its world premiere in this new Astra model.

Here is an excerpt from available optional extras for the GTC:

* IDSPlus suspension with CDC electronic damping control
* IDS sports suspension
* Panorama windshield
* AFL Adaptive Forward Lighting including Bi-Xenon high-beam and low-beam headlamps, automatic headlamp beam angle adjustment, headlight cleaning system and fog lights
* Automatic Lighting Control (ALC)
* • TPMS Tire Pressure Monitoring System including a graphic info display and the DDS tire pressure loss monitoring system
* Hill-Start-Assist (HSA)
* Trailer Stability Program
* On-board computer with Check Control System
* Electronic climate control
* Rain sensor
* Leather upholstery and trim
* Quickheat heating system

Astra GTC buyers can also choose between state-of-the-art infotainment systems, which are known from the other Astra models, featuring many different functions and an intuitive operating concept. New is the DVD 90 Navi radio navigation system. In addition to the CD 70 Navi model, it provides a digital travel guide with a convenient search and select function and the major advantage that one DVD disk contains the map and navigation software for as many as 21 European countries.
Market and Model

* Shift: Modern three-door models outstrip traditional concepts
* Target group: Buyers value design, innovative technology and driving pleasure
* Planning: GTC expected to make up roughly one-sixth of total Astra sales

The compact class is changing: while traditional entry-level models designed according to the “five minus two doors” concept are losing market share, the so-called “modern three-door” sub-segment is steadily gaining popularity. This segment has significantly increased its share of the European compact three-door model market, from 28 percent in 1999 to 43 percent in 2003.

Buyers of the modern three-door are discerning, generally well-educated customers, who value expressive design, innovative technology and driving pleasure. And with its dynamic looks, state-of-the-art technology and wide range of powerful, fuel-efficient diesel and gasoline engines with outputs from 90 to 200 hp, these are exactly the new Astra GTC’s (Gran Turismo Compact) highlights. GM/Opel designers, engineers and marketing experts agree that all these elements add up to make the new GTC the most compelling and attractive model of the modern three-door generation.

Design, innovative technology and driving pleasure are among the key criteria in winning over car buyers in the modern three-door class. According to Opel marketing specialists, this premium-oriented segment includes cars such as the Alfa 147, the Audi A3 or the upcoming three-door BMW 1 series. In addition to the Audi A3 and the BMW 3 series Compact, models like the Renault Mégane Coach and Fiat Bravo were the first vanguards of this new, modern three-door class in the mid-nineties.

Models based on the traditional “five minus two doors” concept, on the other hand, are on the decline. Their share of the three-door segment in the hatchback compact class dropped from 72 percent or around 764,000 units in 1999 to 57 percent or about
420,000 units in 2003. One reason for this development is the increase of alternatives available to function-oriented car buyers over the past years.

These include models that have grown in size but are still referred to as small cars, as well as practical and versatile vans such as the Opel Meriva.

The Astra GTC offers high everyday functionality, too. For example, this sporty variant in the Astra model range has five seats and offers 380 liters (according to VDA norm) luggage compartment volume, just as much as the five-door Astra. It also features rear seat backs that fold down in a 60:40 split (optionally 40:20:40) for flexible use of interior space.

The GTC’s extensive standard equipment includes a wide range of comfort elements and the top-of-the-line SAFETEC safety system of the new Astra model range. In addition to the entry-level version, the new GTC is offered in three further model lines: Edition, Sport and Cosmo. Each version has a character of its own, thanks to distinctive visual and functional details.

Opel expects the Edition equipment line to top GTC buyers’ list, with a share of roughly
45 percent, followed by Cosmo with 25 percent. The trend toward high-end equipment
is also reflected in the choice of powerful engines. The four top-of-the-line gasoline and diesel engines – the 1.9 CDTI units with 120 and 150 hp, and the 2.0 turbo with 170 and 200 hp – are expected to have a share of 10 percent, four percent more than in the
five-door model in 2004. Roughly 35 percent of GTC buyers will choose the 105 hp
1.6 TWINPORT, with approximately 30 percent selecting the 1.7 CDTI, 100 hp unit.

The Opel Vivaro – sold in the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall Vivaro – is a medium-sized light commercial vehicle (LCV or PKW) originally launched in 2001, and is available in panel van, minibus, combined bus/van and platform-cab configurations. Two wheelbases and two roof heights are available, as well as three diesel engines and a petrol engine.

The vehicle resulted from a joint venture between General Motors (owners of Opel and Vauxhall) and French manufacturer Renault, and is also sold as the Renault Trafic and by their ally Nissan as the Nissan Primastar. The vehicle is primarily manufactured at GMM Luton Vehicles (previously IBC) in England, and also by Nissan at their Zona Franca facility in Barcelona.

The vehicle is distinguished by its somewhat flamboyant and unconventional front design, compared with its more traditional competitors such as the smaller variants of the Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter.

The Opel / Vauxhall Vivaro won the Professional Van and Light Truck Magazine Van of the Year 2006 Award, having been judged against competitors by a panel of van users, buyers and asset management professionals.

Cloggies like tuning their vans, or so Opel claims. Especially for the Dutch market they have released the Opel Vivaro Performance Concept (or simply the Vivaro VPC) and will be limited to 100 numbered units.

The Opel Vivaro VPC has a stock 2,5 liter CDTi engine with 146 hp (107 kW) and six-speed manual transmission. The VPC is based on the long wheel-base Vivaro with dual cabin (L2) which seats five people and can hold 3,8 cubic meters of cargo. So under the hood everything stays as it is, the interior and exterior on the other hand receive quite a make-over.

The outside sports a new body kit, light-weight wheels with wide tires and is painted in OPC Arden Blue, although it seems that the limited edition will only be available in silver-grey or black metallic.

Inside you will find Recaro sport seats for the driver and co-driver, leather and cloth upholstery and an umbrella holder in the rear seat. The cargo area has a (by the looks of it) fancy-looking hard-wood floor which looks great but we wonder how badly it will scratch when in daily use.

Opel has priced the Vivaro VPC at Euro 34,900 and is, as stated before, available in The Netherlands only.

Opel has shifted into top gear with the new Corsa. Following the successful market launch of the bestseller’s fourth generation, Opel now sends the sporty top version on to the road. The OPC model is the quintessential expression of the Corsa’s dynamic character, with top-level agility and vehicle control promising pure driving fun. Its 1.6-liter turbo engine with 141 kW/192 hp accelerates the compact three-door from zero to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and enables a top speed of 225 km/h.

The maximum torque of 230 Nm, which can be temporarily increased to over 260 Nm via an ‘overboost’ function, is delivered to the front wheels by the standard six-speed transmission. This level of performance provides the newest member of the sporty OPC family with superb propulsion power in all driving situations. For instance, accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h takes just 6.7 seconds in fifth gear. The Corsa OPC requires 7.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, a moderate figure in this performance class. It makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in early March, shortly before its market launch.

The top-of-the-line Corsa’s look also reflects pure sportiness. The roof spoiler, as well as the powerful front and rear aprons with distinctive gill-like air intakes and outlets make the OPC a real eye-catcher. Elements such as the darkly contrasting diffuser with integrated, centrally located triangular tailpipe and specially designed exterior mirrors are just a few examples of how much attention to detail was put into further developing the Corsa’s bold, sporty character.

The Corsa OPC’s chassis has a unique, even sportier character thanks to extensive modifications. Through intensive tuning drives on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, engineers were able to achieve a sophisticated balance of agile handling and pronounced vehicle control. Key modifications include a stronger rear axle profile and adjusted torsion beam rear axle weld-in angle, new spring/dampener tuning, lowering of the chassis by 10 mm and a larger stabilizer. The standard ESP system, which can be deactivated, has also been tuned to the car’s sporty character. The new Corsa OPC comes with 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tires ex works, while 18-inch rims and size 225 tires are available as an option. The large 16-inch brake system with blue painted brake calipers ensures powerful deceleration: the Corsa OPC boasts internally ventilated, 308 mm front disk brakes and 264 mm disk brakes at the rear.

Sportiness also dominates the Corsa OPC’s cockpit. In addition to the typical OPC door sills, chrome-ringed instruments with red pointers and blue-ringed air vents (also available in silver), the flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel is especially eye-catching. Also reminiscent of motor sport vehicles, the steering wheel features a blue (or optionally silver) ring at its crown, while the center console in piano lacquer finish and aluminum pedals underline the sporty, high quality ambience. Particularly striking are the newly developed Recaro sports seats with integrated head restraints. The race-car-like seats protect both the driver and front passenger with integrated side airbags − a world premiere for this type of seat.

The introduction of the Corsa expands Opel’s OPC program to five model lines. The top-of-the-line Vectra OPC with 206 kW/280 hp is available as a sedan or station wagon. The Zafira OPC − the fastest production van in the world with a top speed of 231 km/h − and the Astra OPC both have a 177 kW/240 hp, two-liter turbo engine. The Meriva OPC is powered by an engine similar to that of the Corsa OPC: with 132 kW/180 hp and a top speed of over 220 km/h, the versatile five-seater is unique in the minivan segment.

“The OPC models embody pure sportiness, infusing the brand with emotion and passion. That is why the OPC version fits brilliantly to the new Corsa, which is positioned as a young car offering plenty of fun,” says Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing.

As an option, the large 16-inch brake system with blue painted brake calipers ensures powerful deceleration: the Corsa OPC boasts internally ventilated, 308 mm front disk brakes and 264 mm disk brakes at the rear.

Sportiness also dominates the Corsa OPC’s cockpit. In addition to the typical OPC door sills, chrome-ringed instruments with red pointers and blue-ringed air vents (also available in silver), the flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel is especially eye-catching. Also reminiscent of motor sport vehicles, the steering wheel features a blue (or optionally silver) ring at its crown, while the center console in piano lacquer finish and aluminum pedals underline the sporty, high quality ambience. Particularly striking are the newly developed Recaro sports seats with integrated head restraints. The race-car-like seats protect both the driver and front passenger with integrated side airbags − a world premiere for this type of seat.

The introduction of the Corsa expands Opel’s OPC program to five model lines. The top-of-the-line Vectra OPC with 206 kW/280 hp is available as a sedan or station wagon. The Zafira OPC − the fastest production van in the world with a top speed of 231 km/h − and the Astra OPC both have a 177 kW/240 hp, two-liter turbo engine. The Meriva OPC is powered by an engine similar to that of the Corsa OPC: with 132 kW/180 hp and a top speed of over 220 km/h, the versatile five-seater is unique in the minivan segment.

“The OPC models embody pure sportiness, infusing the brand with emotion and passion. That is why the OPC version fits brilliantly to the new Corsa, which is positioned as a young car offering plenty of fun,” says Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing.

During the same round of the OPC Race Camp that saw the introduction of the Opel Astra OPC Nürburgring Edition, former Opel works driver Manuel Reuter decided to update the official Nordschleife record book. He did this by taking a production-spec Corsa OPC and lapping the course in 8 minutes, 47.99 seconds — a new record for superminis on The Green Hell.

The Corsa OPC is no stranger to the Nordschleife, as Opel uses the track regularly during the development of its automobiles. The little hot hatchlet is driven by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 192 horsepower. Its peak torque rating of 169 lb-ft can be bumped up an additional fifteen percent thanks to the car’s Overboost function. We sit here waiting patiently for the next Corsa revision, so that we can see a Saturn-badged version take on the forthcoming Ford Fiesta/Verve/Whatever when both ultimately arrive Stateside. If the Detroit automakers cooperate, we’ll get a Red Line vs. SVT duel, too. (Fingers crossed.)

Rüsselsheim. The Nürburgring Nordschleife, nicknamed the “Green Hell”, met its match today in the shape of a standard production Corsa OPC. After 20.8 challenging kilometers, the stopwatch showed eight minutes, 8m47.99 seconds – a new record for a supermini. Manuel Reuter set the officially confirmed circuit record during level four of Opel’s popular motorsport initiative called “OPC Race Camp”. The former Opel works driver and current head of the innovative racing driver talent search showed the candidates just what the 141 kW/192 hp top-of-the-line Corsa OPC is capable of. Reuter has already set class records on the legendary Nordschleife with the Astra OPC and Zafira OPC.

Manuel Reuter, who is involved with the chassis tuning and post launch modifications to OPC variants, said: “You can sense that this car had its final tuning here on the most demanding racing circuit in the world. The Corsa OPC reacts directly to driving commands and remains fully predictable even well into the car’s physical limits.” The Nürburgring, and in particular the famous Nordschleife circuit, is Opel territory, as development engineers from Rüsselsheim regularly test and optimize the driving dynamics of new models there.

The Corsa OPC, which has been on sale since March and already exceeded the planned annual sales target of 3000 units, also offers top class everyday driving fun away from the racing circuit. The sporty top version of the fourth-generation Corsa has a 1.6-liter turbo engine, which accelerates the car from zero to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds. The Corsa OPC has a top speed of 225 km/h, and its maximum torque of 230 Nm can be temporarily increased by 15 percent via the Overboost function. The Corsa OPC’s only conservative trait is its fuel consumption – just 7.9 liters per 100 km.

The Manta A was released in 1970, based on the Opel Ascona of the time, as a competitor to the Ford Capri. It was a two-door “three-box” coupé, and featured distinctive round tail lights, quite similar to the Opel GT and in fact were used on the GT in 1973, its final model year. Unusually for the UK, the car was sold as an Opel rather than having a Vauxhall-branded equivalent.

The sales approach for the Opel line in the U.S. Market was equally odd. The Manta A was one of only a few Opel models sold in the U.S. Market. Opels were imported by GM and sold through Buick dealerships and not their own dealership network, so they were limited in what makes and models they could sell here. Other Opel makes sold in the U.S. market were the 1956–61 the Rekord P1 and Rekord P2, the Kadett A (1964–66), Kadett B (1967–71), GT (1969–73), Manta / Ascona A (1971–75). The Ascona A, was the sedan version of the Manta A chassis and was sold in the U.S. under the 1900 name as a 2 door & 4 door sedan and 2 door “Sport Wagon”. The only difference between the Ascona and Manta was exterior sheet metal, glass and trim. The frame, all the mechanicals, dash, front seats, and many other parts were shared between the cars. The Manta was even sold in 1971 and 1972, as the 1900 Sport Coupe, not the Manta. In 1973 the Manta nameplate was added to the U.S.-spec Mantas, but the Asconas kept the 1900 badge throughout their model life. The last year GM imported European made Opels into the United States, under their marquee, was 1975. In that year the only Opels imported were the Manta & Ascona A.

The Manta was normally equipped with a 1.6–1.9 litre CIH engines, although in Europe a small 1.2 litre motor was offered. All Mantas sold in the U.S. had the 1.9L and larger heavy duty radiator (an option on European models). It came with either a 4 speed manual or an optional 3-speed TH-180 automatic. The Manta was known to be one of the best handling cars in its class and went on to win a large number of rallies in Europe and the United States.

In the U.S. Market, there was a sport model known as the Rallye from 1971-74. The “Rallye” model was overall an appearance and gauge package, the most noticeable difference was the addition of a Black Hood and on 1970-73 models addition of fog lamps. Mechanically the only difference was the gear ratio in the models with manual transmissions. In 1973 and 1974 there was also the “Luxus” model which included “refinements” like corduroy seats, colour-coded interiors (blue or burgundy), and faux wood panelling. The only special edition Manta ever produced for the U.S. market was the “Blue Max” in 1973, this amounted to a blue 1973 Luxus model, with a unique dark blue vinyl roof, mechanical sunroof, and automatic transmission.

In 1975, All Manta and 1900 models were equipped with the Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection in the United States due to emission regulations. Yet in Europe this feature was only available on the high end GT/E Models, which also sported fog lamps and a lower front spoiler, which was not offered on any of the U.S. Spec Manta models. Also of note is that the 1974–75 Opel Manta Models sported large aluminium 5 mph (8 km/h) bumpers to comply with U.S. crash standards of the time; the European Mantas did not receive the large bumpers.

The European market had a number of different versions of their own. Most were basic trim packages, the most popular being the “Berlinetta”, which was similar to the “Luxus” but included rubber trim on the bumpers (standard on all 1973 U.S. Opel Mantas), vinyl roof, and other misc. features. The one major exception being in 1975 Opel offered the GT/E and a number of special editions based on the GT/E. The GT/E was a fuel injected version of the European 1.9L and the performance figures were very impressive for the time. Most notable special editions models based on the GT/E were the “Black Magic” (with black & plaid interior), and the “Swinger” edition in white with an equally odd interior choice.

There were two different special models made of the Manta A. The primary objective was to up the power of the car. Both projects started approximately at the same time (around 1972–73). There was the Turbomanta and the TE2800.

The Turbomanta is the most rare of the two. Production was a total of 33 cars ever made, whereas the 5 of them was the prototypes, and the ones used for public relations.

The Turbomanta is actually a 1973 SR with a 1.9 litre “S” spec engine, originally putting out 90 bhp (67 kW). The British company “Broadspeed” was chosen to build the turbo cars, and eventually started building 5 left hand drive cars for the German Opel AG. These cars were only meant as prototypes. Broadspeed came up with a somewhat special solution, and used a combination of a Holset 3LDG turbocharger, and a carburettor mounted inside a big plenum chamber. The engine itself was fitted with a thicker copper head gasket, and as such the compression ratio was lowered to 7.6:1. The outcome was a 1.9 litre engine which put out a staggering 156 bhp (116 kW), and more impressive was the acceleration. 0–60 was done in only 7.6 seconds, faster than most “supercars” at the time like the Porsche 911. All 5 cars were in GM “signalgelb” sunflower yellow, and had a large black stripe on the side, where a sign said “TURBOMANTA”. The downside to this was fuel consumption. The turbocharger had halved the economy of the car, and building it was also a thing that cost a lot. Therefore Opel closed the project, leaving the 5 cars as the total production number. However a British engineer at the D.O.T (Dealer Opel Team, which was the British importer and builder of Opel cars in Britain) was so enthusiastic about the cars that he had D.O.T. build an additional 28 cars. The cars were all based on the 1974 Berlinetta model, which was the luxury model, with a full gauge pack, automatic transmission, and alloy wheels. All 28 cars were black, with vinyl roofing. The only thing identifying that the car was indeed a Turbo Manta was a small sign at the rear quarter of the rear wings saying “turbo”. Very few of these cars still remain today.

The TE2800 was a totally different project. Actually the TE2800 wasn’t really an Opel as Opel had nothing to do with the project. A Belgium company called Transeurop Engineering also wanted to up the engine power of the Manta A. Opel had previously tried a 6 cylinder engine layout already in 1971 and 72, but with no success. The cars were rendered to expensive to build, and the market was overwhelmed at the time with big engine cars. But Transeurop Engineering did not agree. They basically took a 2.8 litre CIH type engine from the Opel Commodore 2.8GS model and fitted it into the engine bay of the Manta 1.9SR. A lot of problems occurred. The radiator, the bonnet, the entire front end of the car, the rear axle, the transmission, it all needed to be changed. To solve this fast Transeurop Engineering tried to get Opel to join the project using Opels earlier experiences with the transformation, but with no luck. Even worse Opel didn’t even want the Opel brand on the cars, if the project ever became a success. Transeurop Engineering therefore turned to Opel’s number one tuner of the time Steinmetz. Steinmetz supplied the new fibreglass bonnet with a large bulk on it to give room to the engine, a set of widened arches, and a special front bumper integrated with the lower front spoiler, to make room for the dramatically changes that needed to be made to the cars front end construction. Several of this was cut out and replaced with other parts being mounted further to the ground to give room for the radiator. A closed radiator system was installed so that the radiator had a water tank in the engine bay (like we know it from modern cars today). The engine was still the 2.8 litre unit from the Commodore GS and this was originally fitted with 2 Zenith carburettors. The output was 142 bhp (106 kW), and with the Commodore 4 speed manual gearbox and a 3,18:1 rear axle the car went from 0–60 mph in just 7.5 seconds. A total of 79 cars were made and sold through Steinmetz in Germany branded not as a Opel but as a TE2800. All Opel brands was removed from the cars and replaced by the logo “TE”.

Steinmets offered a tune-up for rally and motorsport use. The tuneup consisted of porting and flowing the head, higher compression ratio, a race spec camshaft, and triple carburettors, giving the car a total of up to 230 bhp (172 kW).

No doubt that the TE2800 is the fastest Manta A ever made, even though officially it isn’t an Opel. It could outpower cars like the 911 Carrera of 1973 and the BMW2002 turbo from 1973, even though those cars had more engine power. The low weight of the Manta bodyshell, and the combination of the right gear ratios, was what gave the car its success. Unfortunately Opel was right though. The cars were too expensive costing almost twice the price of a 105 bhp (78 kW) GT/E in 1975. Very few of these cars exist today, as most where used in rally and motorsport events.

engine lineup with it, but has a different exterior and interior, as well as different exterior dimensions. The Antara is scheduled to be launched in the summer of 2007. In the UK, the model will be sold as Vauxhall Antara. In Australia, this will be the top model of the Captiva lineup of the Holden brand, called Captiva MaXX. In the United States and Canada, the vehicle is known as the second generation Saturn VUE.

Opel Antara GTC concept

The Antara was first previewed by the three-door Opel Antara GTC (“Gran Turismo Crossover”) concept car, presented in September 2005 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The Antara GTC was based on the Chevrolet T2X 5-seater, but has no rear hinged doors and features different styling. A similar 2-door concept was later displayed at the New York International Auto Show as the Saturn PreVue. The production Antara, however, will be a longer, 4-door 7-seater vehicle very similar to the Chevrolet S3X and its derivatives Winstorm and Captiva. Similarily, the 2008 Saturn VUE is heavily based on the concept, but will only be available as a longer 4-door vehicle. New vehicle pricing around 35000$.

2.0 L common rail turbodiesel I4, 150 hp (112 kW) (developed with VM Motori) – 5-speed manual
2.4 L Ecotec I4, 142 hp (106 kW) (from Holden) – 5-speed manual
3.2 L Alloytec V6, 225 hp (168 kW) (from Holden) – ActiveSelect automatic

A special version of the Antara has competed in the 2007 Dakar Rally, and it finished 35th place out of the 190 competitors. The race car was built by the private Hungarian “Szalay Dakar Team”. The base of the car is one of the first production models and it is powered by a 395 hp (295KW) engine. Building the race car took only 2 months due to the lack of time. Some major modifications are planned for 2007.

Ferrari Race Car.

Honda S2000 Race Car.

Europen Race Car DTM.

Vauxhall Race Car DTM.

Seat Toledo Race Car DTM.

The Tigra was based on the concept car of the same name and built on the platform of the second generation Opel Corsa. However, it shared no body panels with the model it was based on, and the interior layout was different too, with a 2+2 seating arrangement. The production vehicle was introduced at the 1993 Frankfurt Motor Show, with production starting in early 1994.

The Tigra was available with two petrol engines options, both from the Ecotec family, a more affordable 1.4 L with 90 PS (66 kW), and a larger sportier version, powered by the 1.6 L engine with 106 PS (78 kW), sourced from the Corsa GSi. Both wereDOHC 16 valve engines with electronic fuel injection. The smaller engine was available with an optional 4-speed automatic gearbox.

Added to the mass-market underpinnings was a suspension tweaked by Lotus. However, the car was overweight, with 150 kg (330 lb) over the equivalent engined Corsa models. Acceleration on the 1.6 L model was 10.5 seconds, one second slower than the Corsa GSi. However, a higher top speed of 203 km/h (126 mph) compensanted for its acceleration troubles. This speed increase was obtained thanks to the higher gear ratios, a lower drag coefficient of 0.31, and standard 15″ wheels on the more powerful model.

The car was imported by Chevrolet and sold as the Chevrolet Tigra in Brazil and Mexico, and as the Vauxhall Tigra in the United Kingdom.
Brazilian Chevrolet Tigra depicting Chevrolet’s emblem

The Brazilian Chevrolet Tigra was imported only for a few months, between late 1998 to early 1999, due to a sudden depreciation of the Real, which forced General Motors do Brasil to end importation. Only the 1.6 L model was imported, detuned to 99 PS (73 kW) for tax purposes. The 15″ wheels were also exchanged for more affordable 14″ wheels.

Rally Lada 2107

Janusz Kulig (b. October 19, 1969 in Lapanach near Krakow – d. February 13, 2004 in Rzezawa near Bochnia, Poland) was a Polish rally driver. He started his career behind the wheel of a Polski Fiat 126p and during his early years in rally he also drove Toyota Corolla, Opel Kadett and Renault Clio.

He became one of the top drivers while driving Renault Megane Maxi. In this car he also won his first Polish Rally Championship title in 1997. After 2 seasons with Renault, he signed a contract with Marlboro Mobil 1 team. He changed his car to a Ford Escort WRC and in following years to a Ford Focus WRC. Those years were most successful for Kulig. He won another 2 Polish Championship titles and became well known in European and World rally. Kulig spent the 2002 and 2003 seasons competing in the European Rally Championship (2nd place in 2002) and occasional WRC events. His biggest success in WRC was 1st place in PCWRC in Sweden 2003 but after the rally he was stripped of his glory by FIA due to illegal modifications in his Mitsubishi Lancer EVO VII (the flywheel had different streak than the one approved by FIA). For the 2004 Polish Championship Season he signed a contract to drive Fiat Punto S1600.

Kulig died in an accident after his car (Fiat Stilo) collided with a train on a level crossing. The crossing barriers were not lowered. He was survived by his wife and two daughters.

Ferrari Modena 360 vs Opel Corsa

It was originally available as a small coupe, produced from 1994 to 2000, with a new roadster model introduced in 2004. The Opel Tigra is sold in the UK as the Vauxhall Tigra, in Australia as the Holden Tigra, and was sold in Brazil and Mexico as the Chevrolet Tigra.