ilPistone.com: 2008 Opel Corsa GSi

Powerful Performance and Subtle Sportiness

· 150 hp turbo gasoline engine available for three and five-door models
· Constantly high torque over broad rpm range
· Variable progressive steering feedback curve provides sports car feeling

Rüsselsheim. The motto of the new Opel Corsa GSi, which joined the Corsa model line in June 2007, is ‘more substance than show’. Unlike the uncompromising high-performance look of the Opel Corsa OPC that was launched in March 2007, the new GSi radiates subtle sportiness, and is now available as a five-door variant. The GSi’s powerful 1.6 ECOTEC turbo engine produces 110 kW/150 hp at 5000 rpm, positioning the new sporty model between the Corsa Sport 1.7 CDTI with 92 kW/125 hp and the high-performance Corsa OPC with 141 kW/192 hp. It takes the new Corsa to a top speed of 210 km/h and accelerates it from zero to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds. The lowered sport chassis, Electric Power Steering (EPS) with variable progressive feedback curve and sporty tuned ESPPlus as standard ensure agile handling.

“We’re pleased to again have another GSi model in our portfolio. Opel fans know what GSi stands for: plenty of fun, good value for money and no compromises in everyday use,” explains Alain Visser, Executive Director European Marketing Opel/Vauxhall. “The Corsa GSi combines the virtues of its compact dimensions with impressive performance over the entire rpm range, which actually positions it in the next higher car class.” The successful Corsa model range now includes five gasoline and three diesel variants with a performance spectrum of 60 to 192 hp. Around 400,000 new Corsas have been sold across Europe since the fourth-generation’s launch in October 2006, surpassing all expectations.

1.6 Turbo ECOTEC: Lightweight compact engine

The 110 kW/150 hp, 1.6-liter turbo engine in the Corsa GSi provides high performance combined with fuel economy and environmental compatibility. Weighing just 131 kg, the compact engine produces considerable power: the Corsa GSi accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and has a top speed of 210 km/h. In addition to the rapid turbo response, the engine with sequential manifold injection boasts excellent elasticity – the GSi accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in just 8.2 seconds in fifth gear. The maximum torque of 210 Nm is available constantly from 1850 to 5000 rpm which, together with the six-speed manual transmission, forms a key part of the GSi’s impressive driving performance. The Corsa GSi requires just 7.9 liters of super unleaded gasoline per 100 kilometers – a very low figure for such a sporty car.

The clever, lightweight construction is an important characteristic of the standard engine. Including the aluminum bearing cover, the grey cast iron block weighs only 27 kg. The cylinder head, oil sump and turbo-specific induction manifold with side-mounted throttle valve are all made from aluminum. Other construction highlights of the GSi’s turbo engine, which has a remarkable output per liter of 94 hp, include a rapid-response compressor with external water cooling. Its turbine reaches over 200,000 rpm. The turbocharger housing is integrated into the cast exhaust manifold - an Opel-typical design that is optimal for the weight and rapid response of the turbocharger. Other features include the air-cooled intercooler, exhaust valves that are cooled by sodium in the shaft and oil-spray cooling of the flat pistons. There is also the stronger crankshaft drive, friction-optimized operation of the camshafts and the new two-mass flywheel with torsional-vibration damper that improves running smoothness.

The unit is also well suited for the future. The preconverter directly behind the turbine outlet supplements the main underfloor catalytic converter and improves the quick response of the three-way exhaust emission control. Together with the new hybrid technology engine control unit, it is perfectly positioned to meet all requirements of the upcoming Euro 5 emissions standard.

Sporty tuning of steering, chassis and brakes

The excellent driving dynamics and agile handling match the newest Corsa variant’s distinctive temperament. These characteristics are also typical of the fourth Corsa generation as a whole. The GSi’s Electronic Power Steering (EPS) responds variably, which enables easier maneuvering. The variable progressive feedback curve, which is unique in this class, provides a more direct response ratio at smaller

steering-wheel angles. Together with the dynamic chassis design, it provides a true sports car feeling. Other driving fun factors include the torsion-resistant body, which is 18 mm lower in front and 15 mm lower in the rear, as well as the chassis with front subframe and rear torsion beam. Just like the Corsa OPC, this gives the GSi variant a stronger rear axle profile, which increases the roll rate by 25 percent, and modified spring/dampener tuning. With the ABS and sophisticated ESPPlus system, the Corsa GSi is always under control: in addition to brake assist, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Understeer Control Logic (UCL), separate Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Straight-Line Stability control (SLS) functions are activated when needed. Experienced, sporty drivers can have even more driving fun by switching off the ESPPlus. The large 16-inch brake system from the Corsa OPC ensures strong deceleration: the Corsa GSi boasts 25 mm thick, internally ventilated 308 mm front disk brakes and 264 mm disk brakes at the rear. Low-profile, size 215/45 R 17 tires on seven-inch light alloy wheels ensure optimum traction.

Sporty, refined looks

The Opel Corsa GSi design elements radiate sporty refinement. Exterior modifications include a front spoiler lip, rear apron lip and spoiler, color-keyed side sills, chrome sport tailpipe and 17-inch light alloy wheels. The interior’s dynamic ambience is emphasized by the comfortable, black/red upholstered sport seats with high side support, a leather steering wheel with red inserts, red safety belts, chrome-ringed instruments and aluminum-look pedals.

The combination of easy-going GSi driving fun and ample equipment is highlighted by the extensive list of standard comfort and safety elements. This includes: front and rear head curtain airbags, active head restraints in front, air conditioning, tinted heat-absorbing glazing, radio remote control central locking, power heated exterior mirrors, power windows in front, backlit switches and displays, reading lamps, stereo CD-Radio CD 30 MP3 with steering wheel remote control, height-adjustable driver’s seat, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, foldable rear bench seat back split 1/3:2/3, double luggage compartment floor, door-to-door lighting and fog lamps. Technology options available for the Corsa GSi that are unique in this class include halogen headlamps with dynamic curve and static cornering light.