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{{Unreferenced|date=August 2007}} {{Use dmy dates|date=March 2018}}
{{More citations needed|date=March 2012}}
{{Infobox automobile {{Infobox automobile
| name = Volkswagen Corrado
|image = ]
| image = 1993 Volkswagen Corrado SLC in Black, front left.jpg
|name = Volkswagen Corrado
|manufacturer = ] | manufacturer = ]
|production = 1988-1995 | production = 1988–1995
| assembly = Germany: ] (])<!-- The Scirocco was not replaced by the Corrado. The Scirocco is a completely different family with three different generations of car. The Corrado is a single family member with a single generation.-->
|predecessor = ]
|class = ] | class = ]
| body_style = 3-door ] ]
|layout = ]
| layout = ]
|body_style = 3-door ]
|platform = ]. (VR6 models utilise components from the A3 platform). | platform = ]
| engine = {{ubl
|engine = 1.8&nbsp;L ] 115&nbsp;hp<br>1.8&nbsp;L ] 16-valve 123 or 139&nbsp;hp<br>1.8&nbsp;L ] ] 158&nbsp;hp<br>2.0&nbsp;L ] 16-valve 134&nbsp;hp<br>2.8&nbsp;L ] 178 hp<br>2.9&nbsp;L ] 192&nbsp;hp
| ''']:'''
|transmission = 5-speed ]<br>4-speed ]
| 1.8&nbsp;L ]
|assembly = ], ]
| 1.8&nbsp;L ] I4
|wheelbase = 1989-1992: {{convert|97.3|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}<br>1993-95: {{convert|97.2|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| 2.0&nbsp;L I4
|length = {{convert|159.4|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| 2.8&nbsp;L ]
|width = 1989-1992: {{convert|65.9|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}<br>1993-95: {{convert|66.5|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| 2.9&nbsp;L VR6
|height = {{convert|51.9|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
}}
|related = ]<br>]<br>] Mk1
| transmission = 5-speed ]<br />4-speed ]
| wheelbase = 1989–1992: {{convert|97.3|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}<br />1993–1995: {{convert|97.2|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| length = {{convert|159.4|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| width = 1989–1992: {{convert|65.9|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}<br />1993–1995: {{convert|66.5|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| height = {{convert|51.57|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| weight = {{convert|1210|-|1274|kg|lb|abbr=on}}
| related = ]<br />] Mk2<br />] Mk1
| designer = Herbert Schäfer
| predecessor = ] Mk.2
| successor = ] Mk.3
}} }}


The '''Volkswagen Corrado''' is a sports car developed by German automaker ] and built by ] in ], Germany, between 1 September 1988 and 31 July 1995. In 1990, the Corrado went on sale in the United States. The '''Volkswagen Corrado''' is a compact four passenger (2+2), three door, front-engine, ] ] ] marketed by ] from 1988 until 1995, and manufactured by ] in ], Germany.


Designed by Herbert Schäfer,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.volkswagen-classic.de/magazin/design/portrait/herbert-schaefer |title=Volkswagen Classic - Volkswagen Designer im Portrait: Herbert Schäfer |access-date=3 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705231615/http://www.volkswagen-classic.de/magazin/design/portrait/herbert-schaefer |archive-date=5 July 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref> the Corrado overlapped and eventually superseded Volkswagen's ] model. 97,521 Corrados were manufactured over the seven year production run; about 50,000 of them were sold in the United States.<ref name=G60hist>{{cite web| website=VW Corrado G60 | title = History|url=https://www.corradog60.co.uk/history.php | first = Neil | last = Riley }}</ref>
Originally conceived as a possible successor to the Porsche 944, the Corrado is a three-door ] ] with a ] seating layout. The car's floorpan is based on the ] (i.e. MK2 Golf/Jetta) and with the exception of VR6 models, all versions utilise the subframes, suspension, steering and braking components from the A2 model range. The VR6 utilises suspension components from the A3 model range, including the rear axle assembly and some parts of the A3's 'plus' type front axle assembly. The subsequent wider front wheel-track of the Corrado VR6 necessitated the fitting of new front wings with wider wheelarches and liners along with a new front bumper assembly. Together with a new raised-style bonnet to accommodate the VR6 engine, these body improvements were carried across the model range.


==Overview==
Contrary to popular belief, the Corrado platform is not a hybrid of A2 and ] cars. The B3 rear axle (as has been incorrectly understood to be fitted to the Corrado) is in fact a heavier duty item than the A2 and A3 units fitted to the Corrado. This can be confirmed by the VW parts numbering system.
]
The Corrado is a three-door ]/] with a ] seating layout. The Corrado's floorpan is based on the ] (i.e. Mark 2 Golf/Jetta) and, with the exception of VR6 models, all versions use the subframes, suspension, steering and braking components from the ] model range. The body shell was built by Karmann and was partially zinc plated and galvanized, providing strong rust protection.<ref name=G60hist/>


The VR6 uses suspension components from the A3 model range, including the rear axle assembly and some parts of the A3's 'plus' type front axle assembly. The subsequent wider front wheel track of the Corrado VR6 necessitated the fitting of new front wings with wider wheel arches and liners along with a new front bumper assembly. Together with a new raised-style bonnet to accommodate the VR6 engine, these body improvements were carried across the model range.
Even to date, enthusiasts and journalists have consistently praised the Corrado for its handling poise, balance and supple ride. Many consider it to be one of the finest handling front-wheel drive cars of its time and the VR6 model was indeed listed as one of the "25 Cars You Must Drive Before You Die" by the British magazine, ''Car''.


The Corrado is noted for its flush mounted windows and active rear spoiler – which raises automatically when the car exceeds {{cvt|100|km/h|mph|0}} ({{cvt|45|mph|km/h|disp=or}} in the North American market), automatically retracts at speeds below {{cvt|25|km/h|mph|round=5}} or can be manually controlled by the driver.<ref name="autoexpress1"/>
All models featured an innovative rear spoiler which automatically raised when the vehicle reached a set speed &ndash; {{convert|45|to|60|mph|abbr=on}} depending on the region and model. On the ] television show ''Top Gear'', host Richard Hammond stated that the Corrado "... was too expensive, and nobody bought it", thus it reached a production total of just 97,521{{Citation needed|date=March 2010}} vehicles.

The name Corrado was derived from the Spanish verb "correr", meaning to run or sprint. Prototypes were named Taifun (German for "Typhoon") but the name was changed prior to release.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.vw.com/en/newsroom/lifestyle-and-heritage/vw-names.html|title=VW Names |website=Volkswagen |quote=Derived from the Spanish verb “correr,” meaning to run or to sprint. (Prototypes had a different, wind-related name that was nixed during development.)}}</ref>

{{clear-left}}


==Variants== ==Variants==
Launched in late 1988, (three years before the end of Scirocco production) All Corrados were ] and featured ]s. It debuted with two ] choices: a 1.8&nbsp;litre, ], ] with {{convert|136|bhp|kW PS||abbr=on}} as the base model (only available in ]) and a ] 1.8&nbsp;litre, eight-valve inline-four, marketed as the ], and delivering {{convert|160|bhp|kW PS||abbr=on}}. The G60 is named for the '']'' with which it is equipped, a ] supercharger whose interior resembles the letter "G". Launched in the end of 1988 (three years before the end of Scirocco production), all Corrados were ] and featured ]s. The Corrado debuted with two ] choices: a 1.8 litre ] ] with {{convert|136|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} (]),<ref name=TAM90>{{Cite book | title = Quattroruote: Tutte le Auto del Mondo 1990 | editor = Mastrostefano, Raffaele | publisher = Editoriale Domus S.p.A | ref = TAM90 | date = 1990 | language = it | page = 1137 | location = Milano }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/facts-and-figures/volkswagen/corrado/coupe-1989/2870/ |title=Volkswagen Corrado (89-96) 1.8 16V 3d - MPG, Dimensions & Performance |publisher=Parkers |date=1 January 1992 |access-date=25 May 2012}}</ref> and a ] 1.8 litre eight valve inline four, marketed as the G60 and delivering {{convert|160|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}}.


The Corrado G60 is named for the '']'' with which it is equipped, a ] whose interior resembles the letter "G". Sales were initially slow, as the Corrado was considerably more expensive than the Scirocco it was meant to replace. Volkswagen United States stated that they had "overequipped the Corrado" when first introduced, leading to sluggish sales.<ref name=WAW260410>{{cite journal | journal = Ward's Auto World | volume = 26 | number = 4 | publisher = Ward's Communications | date = April 1990 | page = 10 | title = Ward's Wrapup | editor-first = Edward K. | editor-last = Miller }}</ref>
Volkswagen introduced two new engines for 1992. The first was a naturally aspirated 2.0&nbsp;litre, 16-valve, {{convert|136|bhp|kW PS||abbr=on}} inline-four, basically a further development of the 1.8&nbsp;litre engine; this engine was not made available to the North American market. The second was the highly-regarded 12-valve ] which came in two variants: a 2.8&nbsp;litre {{convert|179|bhp|kW PS||abbr=on}} model for the US and Canadian markets and a 2.9&nbsp;litre and {{convert|192|bhp|kW PS||abbr=on}} version for the European market. In the United States the VR6 model was marketed as the ''Corrado SLC'' (sport luxury coupe). With the introduction of the VR6 engine, the G60 engine disappeared from the North American market after 1992 and European market in 1993. The VR6 engine was revolutionary at the time because it provided a compromise between both V-shaped and straight engines, by placing the two cylinder banks at an angle of 15° with a single cylinder head. This design allowed engineers to fit a ] into roughly the same space that was previously occupied by four-cylinder engines, while closely approaching the smoothness of a straight-six design. 1994 was the last model year of the Corrado in the United States. Canada had 87 VR6 Corrados made for the 1995 model.


There were also two special models of the G60. The G60 Jet was an economy version for the German market only, thought to be a run out model before the introduction of the VR6. This model was only available in four colours and featured a colour coded interior. Volkswagen could not confirm production numbers for the Jet model.
]
]


Another variant is Volkswagen Motorsport (VWMS) Corrado 16V G60. Although the 16-valve engine combined with the original G-Lader was appreciated within the enthusiast community, the model never saw series production. It is generally believed that only two factory built examples were manufactured, both in Nugget Yellow.
A 2.0&nbsp;litre eight-valve model {{convert|115|bhp|kW PS||abbr=on}} was produced in Europe in 1995. Production ceased in Europe with 213 models made. Along side this a UK-only limited production model was sold, the Corrado VR6 Storm. Some discreet "Storm" badging, a colour-keyed front grille, 15&nbsp;inch ] "Solitude" alloy wheels, and standard fitment of some previously optional items (such as the leather heated front seats) were all that differentiated this model from the base Corrado VR6. Only 500 were produced, 250 in Classic Green with a cream leather interior, and 250 in Mystic Blue, a colour unique to the Storm, with a black leather interior.

Volkswagen introduced two new engines for 1992. The first was a naturally aspirated 2.0 litre, 16-valve {{convert|136|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} inline-four, basically a further development of the 1.8-litre engine; this engine was never made available to the North American market.

The second was the 12-valve ], which came in two variants: a 2.8-litre {{cvt|178|hp|kW PS|0}} model for the United States and Canadian markets, and a {{convert|2861|cc|L CID|1|abbr=on}} producing {{convert|190|PS|bhp kW|0|abbr=on}} at 5,800 rpm and {{convert|245|Nm|0|abbr=on}} at 4,200 rpm of ] version for the European market, fuel feed by ] ] ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.carfolio.com/specifications/models/car/?car=17545|website=carfolio.com|title=1992 Volkswagen Corrado VR6|access-date=July 24, 2018}}</ref> In the United States, the VR6 model was announced in October 1991 but only arrived during the 1992 calendar year and was marketed as the ''Corrado SLC'' (Sport Luxury Coupe). 3,500 examples were brought in for 1992; 1,500 leftover G60s were also sold after the SLC had been introduced.<ref name=CD792>{{cite magazine | magazine = Car and Driver | title = Corrado SLC: Hot enough to ''Fahrverg'' your ''nügens'' | url = http://www.xjamiex.com/mk2resource/brochures/1992/cd92corrado/source/cover.jpg | first = Larry | last = Griffin | date = June 1992 | page = }}</ref>

Upon revising the engine, Volkswagen updated the styling with a new front grill and foglamps.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://consumerguide.com/used/1990-94-volkswagen-corrado/ | title=1990-94 Volkswagen Corrado | date=28 July 2014 }}</ref> With the introduction of the VR6 engine, the G60 engine disappeared from the North American market after 1992 and European market in 1993. The VR6 engine provided a compromise between both V-shaped and straight engines by placing the two cylinder banks at an angle of 15°, with a single cylinder head.

This design allowed engineers to fit a ] into roughly the space previously occupied by ] engines, while closely approaching the smoothness of a straight six design. 1994 was the last model year of the Corrado in the United States.

A lower cost, 2.0-litre 8-valve model with {{cvt|115|PS|kW hp|0}} was produced for Europe from 1993 until 1995. A limited edition only for the United Kingdom, the Corrado Storm, was also sold. Some discreet "Storm" badging, a colour keyed front grille, an additional Storm badge on the gear gaiter surround (an upgrade from the standard Karmann badge), 15&nbsp;inch ] "Solitude" alloy wheels, and standard fitment of some previously optional items (such as the leather heated front seats) differentiated this model from the base Corrado VR6.

Only five hundred were produced: 250 in Classic Green with a cream leather interior, and 250 in Mystic Blue, a colour unique to the Storm, with a black leather interior.

An extremely rare special edition based on the VR6, named the Corrado Campaign was launched and produced in 1992. Only six cars were produced with just four cars surviving as of 2022.{{cn|date=March 2024}} The Campaign model was unique with Dusty Mauve Pearl Effect paint and a red brick leather interior. They were built as a prize as part of a dealer incentive to sell the most Karmann-produced vehicles and all six cars were given to the top six dealerships in the United Kingdom as a bonus.

The Corrado was offered in Japan at ] dealerships that specialize in North American and European vehicles, offering the 1.8 L engine with either the automatic or manual transmission. The larger VR6 would have been considerably more expensive to tax, as the engine was over two liters' displacement.

<gallery widths="200" heights="140">
File:VW Corrado 16 V (2010-04-12) ret2.jpg|Volkswagen Corrado 16V (Europe)
File:1993 Volkswagen Corrado SLC in Black, rear left.jpg|1993 Volkswagen Corrado SLC (US VR6; rear view)
File:1994 Volkswagen Corrado VR6 2.9.jpg|1994 Volkswagen Corrado VR6 (Europe)
File:Corrado VR6 interior.jpg|Volkswagen Corrado VR6 interior
File:Techno Classica 2018, Essen (IMG 9669).jpg|The 1993 Volkswagen Corrado Cabriolet concept
</gallery>
===Specifications===
{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center; font-size:91%;" width=80%
! Model !! Years !! Displacement !! Peak power !! Peak torque !! Top speed !! Acceleration<br /><small>0–100&nbsp;km/h (0-62&nbsp;mph)</small> !! Notes
|-
| rowspan="2" | '''1.8''' (8V) || || rowspan=2 | {{convert|1781|cc|cuin|1|abbr=on}} || {{cvt|107|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5400&nbsp;rpm || {{cvt|154|Nm|lbft|0}} at 3800&nbsp;rpm || || || rowspan="2" | Select export markets
|-
| || {{cvt|112|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5400&nbsp;rpm || {{cvt|159|Nm|lbft|0}} at 4000&nbsp;rpm || ||
|-
| '''1.8 16V''' || 1989–1992 || rowspan=2 | {{convert|1781|cc|cuin|1|abbr=on}} || {{convert|100|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 6300&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|162|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 4800&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|210|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} || 9.1&nbsp;s ||
|-
| '''1.8 8V G60''' || 1989–1993 || {{convert|118|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5600&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|225|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 4000&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|225|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} (manual)<br/>{{cvt|135|mph|km/h|0|disp=flip}} (automatic) || 8.5&nbsp;s (manual){{NoteTag|0–{{cvt|60|mph|km/h|0}}: 7.5&nbsp;s (North America)}}<br>''7.7&nbsp;s'' (automatic){{NoteTag|name=fn1|0–{{cvt|60|mph|km/h|0}}}} || <br>North America only
|-
| '''2.0''' (8V) || 1993–1995 || rowspan=2 | {{convert|1984|cc|cuin|1|abbr=on}} || {{cvt|115|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5400&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|166|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 3200&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|200|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} (manual)<br/>{{convert|196|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} (auto) || 10.6&nbsp;s (manual)<br/>11.5&nbsp;s (automatic) ||
|-
| '''2.0 16V''' || 1992–1995 || {{convert|100|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} at 5800&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|180|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 4400&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|210|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} (manual)<br/>{{convert|208|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} (automatic) || 9.3&nbsp;s (manual)<br/>9.9&nbsp;s (automatic) ||
|-
| rowspan="2" | '''2.8 12V VR6''' || rowspan="2" | 1992–1995 || rowspan="2" | {{convert|2792|cc|cuin|1|abbr=on}} || {{cvt|174|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5800&nbsp;rpm || {{cvt|177|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} at 4200&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|230|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} || 7.2&nbsp;s || Select export markets
|-
| {{cvt|178|hp|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5800&nbsp;rpm || {{cvt|177|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} at 4200&nbsp;rpm || {{cvt|140|mph|km/h|0|disp=flip}} || ''6.8&nbsp;s'' (manual){{NoteTag|name=fn1}}<br> ''7.8&nbsp;s'' (automatic){{NoteTag|name=fn1}} || North America,<br>"Corrado SLC"
|-
| '''2.9 12V VR6''' || 1991–1995 || {{convert|2861|cc|cuin|1|abbr=on}} || {{cvt|190|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} at 5800&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|245|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} at 4200&nbsp;rpm || {{convert|233|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} (manual)<br/>{{convert|230|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} (auto) || 6.9&nbsp;s (manual)<br/>7.9&nbsp;s (automatic) ||
|}
{{NoteFoot}}

==Reviews==
''Auto Express'' magazine describe it as "Regarded as one of VW’s best ever drivers’ cars".<ref name="autoexpress1">{{cite web|url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/usedcartests/217353/eighties_classics.html |title=Eighties classics &#124; Used Car Tests &#124; Car Reviews |publisher=Auto Express |date=20 February 2008 |access-date=15 March 2012}}</ref> The VR6 model was listed as one of the "25 Cars You Must Drive Before You Die" by the British magazine '']'', and 'By far the most desirable version of the Corrado' by '']''.<ref name="autoexpress1"/>

In ] Autos 'Cool Cars We Miss' feature they listed the Corrado among the top eight "Gone but not forgotten: a short list of cars once loved, still missed", describing it in the following manner: "The VW Corrado VR6 is coveted because of its seductive styling, road handling capabilities and its role as trailblazer, introducing the VR6 to the American market."<ref name=msn>{{cite web |last=Griffey |first=Evan |url=http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=434398 |title=Cool Cars We Miss - MSN Autos |publisher=Editorial.autos.msn.com |date=22 August 2011 |access-date=15 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002165117/http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=434398 |archive-date=2 October 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In 1988, in the first incarnation of the ] television show '']'', racing car driver and presenter ] reviewed the Corrado in G60 form, giving it a positive review and stating that "Handling wise, the Corrado is classic front wheel drive, and it's really very, very good indeed." In November 2003, in Series 3 of the relaunched '']'', ] identified the Corrado as a future classic, "a kind of classic waiting in the wings... I think it's really rather special... the result is fantastic," but countered with the comment that it "was too expensive, and nobody bought it."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.topgear.com/uk/tv-show/series-3/episode-5 |title=The one with... the unbreakable Hilux - BBC Top Gear |publisher=Topgear.com |access-date=15 March 2012}}</ref>

== Sales ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Year
!Production
|-
|1988
|
|-
|1989
|24,389<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Annual Report 1990 |url=https://www.volkswagen-group.com/en/publications/corporate/annual-report-1990-2308 |work=Volkswagen}}</ref>
|-
|1990
|21,893<ref name=":0" />
|-
|1991
|17,058<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |title=Annual Report 1992 |url=https://www.volkswagen-group.com/en/publications/corporate/annual-report-1992-2310 |work=Volkswagen}}</ref>
|-
|1992
|16,085<ref name=":1" />
|-
|1993
|8,623<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |title=Annual Report 1994 |url=https://www.volkswagen-group.com/en/publications/corporate/annual-report-1994-2312 |work=Volkswagen}}</ref>
|-
|1994
|3,787<ref name=":2" />
|-
|1995
|2,424<ref>{{Cite news |title=Annual Report 1995 |url=https://www.volkswagen-group.com/en/publications/corporate/annual-report-1995-2313 |work=Volkswagen}}</ref>
|-
|Total
|97,521<ref name="G60hist" />
|}


==References== ==References==
{{reflist}}
* - MSN Autos Article
*VW CORRADO Limited Edition Premier, Brooklands Books LTD. Surrey,UK. 2006.
*VW Parts Catalogue ]
*VW Models price list, UK version dated 10 January 1991.


==External links== ==External links==
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{{Volkswagen}} {{Volkswagen}}
{{Volkswagen (Europe) timeline 1980 to date}} {{Volkswagen (Europe) timeline 1980 to date}}
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{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2010}}


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Latest revision as of 10:31, 5 December 2024

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Motor vehicle
Volkswagen Corrado
Overview
ManufacturerVolkswagen
Production1988–1995
AssemblyGermany: Osnabrück (Karmann)
DesignerHerbert Schäfer
Body and chassis
ClassSport compact
Body style3-door 2+2 coupé
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel-drive
PlatformVolkswagen Group A2 platform
RelatedVolkswagen Golf Mk2
Volkswagen Jetta Mk2
SEAT Toledo Mk1
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission5-speed manual
4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase1989–1992: 2,471 mm (97.3 in)
1993–1995: 2,469 mm (97.2 in)
Length4,049 mm (159.4 in)
Width1989–1992: 1,674 mm (65.9 in)
1993–1995: 1,689 mm (66.5 in)
Height1,310 mm (51.57 in)
Curb weight1,210–1,274 kg (2,668–2,809 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorVolkswagen Scirocco Mk.2
SuccessorVolkswagen Scirocco Mk.3

The Volkswagen Corrado is a compact four passenger (2+2), three door, front-engine, front-wheel-drive liftback coupe marketed by Volkswagen from 1988 until 1995, and manufactured by Karmann in Osnabrück, Germany.

Designed by Herbert Schäfer, the Corrado overlapped and eventually superseded Volkswagen's Scirocco model. 97,521 Corrados were manufactured over the seven year production run; about 50,000 of them were sold in the United States.

Overview

Corrado, rear view

The Corrado is a three-door hatchback/liftback with a 2+2 seating layout. The Corrado's floorpan is based on the A2 platform (i.e. Mark 2 Golf/Jetta) and, with the exception of VR6 models, all versions use the subframes, suspension, steering and braking components from the Volkswagen A2 platform model range. The body shell was built by Karmann and was partially zinc plated and galvanized, providing strong rust protection.

The VR6 uses suspension components from the A3 model range, including the rear axle assembly and some parts of the A3's 'plus' type front axle assembly. The subsequent wider front wheel track of the Corrado VR6 necessitated the fitting of new front wings with wider wheel arches and liners along with a new front bumper assembly. Together with a new raised-style bonnet to accommodate the VR6 engine, these body improvements were carried across the model range.

The Corrado is noted for its flush mounted windows and active rear spoiler – which raises automatically when the car exceeds 100 km/h (62 mph) (45 mph or 72 km/h in the North American market), automatically retracts at speeds below 25 km/h (15 mph) or can be manually controlled by the driver.

The name Corrado was derived from the Spanish verb "correr", meaning to run or sprint. Prototypes were named Taifun (German for "Typhoon") but the name was changed prior to release.

Variants

Launched in the end of 1988 (three years before the end of Scirocco production), all Corrados were front-wheel drive and featured petrol engines. The Corrado debuted with two engine choices: a 1.8 litre 16-valve inline four with 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) (KR), and a supercharged 1.8 litre eight valve inline four, marketed as the G60 and delivering 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp).

The Corrado G60 is named for the G Lader with which it is equipped, a scroll-type supercharger whose interior resembles the letter "G". Sales were initially slow, as the Corrado was considerably more expensive than the Scirocco it was meant to replace. Volkswagen United States stated that they had "overequipped the Corrado" when first introduced, leading to sluggish sales.

There were also two special models of the G60. The G60 Jet was an economy version for the German market only, thought to be a run out model before the introduction of the VR6. This model was only available in four colours and featured a colour coded interior. Volkswagen could not confirm production numbers for the Jet model.

Another variant is Volkswagen Motorsport (VWMS) Corrado 16V G60. Although the 16-valve engine combined with the original G-Lader was appreciated within the enthusiast community, the model never saw series production. It is generally believed that only two factory built examples were manufactured, both in Nugget Yellow.

Volkswagen introduced two new engines for 1992. The first was a naturally aspirated 2.0 litre, 16-valve 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) inline-four, basically a further development of the 1.8-litre engine; this engine was never made available to the North American market.

The second was the 12-valve VR6 engine, which came in two variants: a 2.8-litre 178 hp (133 kW; 180 PS) model for the United States and Canadian markets, and a 2,861 cc (2.9 L; 174.6 cu in) producing 190 PS (187 bhp; 140 kW) at 5,800 rpm and 245 N⋅m (181 lbf⋅ft) at 4,200 rpm of torque version for the European market, fuel feed by Bosch Motronic 2.7 fuel injection. In the United States, the VR6 model was announced in October 1991 but only arrived during the 1992 calendar year and was marketed as the Corrado SLC (Sport Luxury Coupe). 3,500 examples were brought in for 1992; 1,500 leftover G60s were also sold after the SLC had been introduced.

Upon revising the engine, Volkswagen updated the styling with a new front grill and foglamps. With the introduction of the VR6 engine, the G60 engine disappeared from the North American market after 1992 and European market in 1993. The VR6 engine provided a compromise between both V-shaped and straight engines by placing the two cylinder banks at an angle of 15°, with a single cylinder head.

This design allowed engineers to fit a six cylinder engine into roughly the space previously occupied by four cylinder engines, while closely approaching the smoothness of a straight six design. 1994 was the last model year of the Corrado in the United States.

A lower cost, 2.0-litre 8-valve model with 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) was produced for Europe from 1993 until 1995. A limited edition only for the United Kingdom, the Corrado Storm, was also sold. Some discreet "Storm" badging, a colour keyed front grille, an additional Storm badge on the gear gaiter surround (an upgrade from the standard Karmann badge), 15 inch BBS "Solitude" alloy wheels, and standard fitment of some previously optional items (such as the leather heated front seats) differentiated this model from the base Corrado VR6.

Only five hundred were produced: 250 in Classic Green with a cream leather interior, and 250 in Mystic Blue, a colour unique to the Storm, with a black leather interior.

An extremely rare special edition based on the VR6, named the Corrado Campaign was launched and produced in 1992. Only six cars were produced with just four cars surviving as of 2022. The Campaign model was unique with Dusty Mauve Pearl Effect paint and a red brick leather interior. They were built as a prize as part of a dealer incentive to sell the most Karmann-produced vehicles and all six cars were given to the top six dealerships in the United Kingdom as a bonus.

The Corrado was offered in Japan at Yanase dealerships that specialize in North American and European vehicles, offering the 1.8 L engine with either the automatic or manual transmission. The larger VR6 would have been considerably more expensive to tax, as the engine was over two liters' displacement.

  • Volkswagen Corrado 16V (Europe) Volkswagen Corrado 16V (Europe)
  • 1993 Volkswagen Corrado SLC (US VR6; rear view) 1993 Volkswagen Corrado SLC (US VR6; rear view)
  • 1994 Volkswagen Corrado VR6 (Europe) 1994 Volkswagen Corrado VR6 (Europe)
  • Volkswagen Corrado VR6 interior Volkswagen Corrado VR6 interior
  • The 1993 Volkswagen Corrado Cabriolet concept The 1993 Volkswagen Corrado Cabriolet concept

Specifications

Model Years Displacement Peak power Peak torque Top speed Acceleration
0–100 km/h (0-62 mph)		 Notes
1.8 (8V) 1,781 cc (108.7 cu in) 79 kW (107 PS; 106 hp) at 5400 rpm 154 N⋅m (114 lb⋅ft) at 3800 rpm Select export markets
82 kW (112 PS; 110 hp) at 5400 rpm 159 N⋅m (117 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm
1.8 16V 1989–1992 1,781 cc (108.7 cu in) 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp) at 6300 rpm 162 N⋅m (119 lb⋅ft) at 4800 rpm 210 km/h (130 mph) 9.1 s
1.8 8V G60 1989–1993 118 kW (160 PS; 158 hp) at 5600 rpm 225 N⋅m (166 lb⋅ft) at 4000 rpm 225 km/h (140 mph) (manual)
217 km/h (135 mph) (automatic)		 8.5 s (manual)
7.7 s (automatic)
North America only
2.0 (8V) 1993–1995 1,984 cc (121.1 cu in) 85 kW (115 PS; 113 hp) at 5400 rpm 166 N⋅m (122 lb⋅ft) at 3200 rpm 200 km/h (124 mph) (manual)
196 km/h (122 mph) (auto)		 10.6 s (manual)
11.5 s (automatic)
2.0 16V 1992–1995 100 kW (136 PS; 134 hp) at 5800 rpm 180 N⋅m (133 lb⋅ft) at 4400 rpm 210 km/h (130 mph) (manual)
208 km/h (129 mph) (automatic)		 9.3 s (manual)
9.9 s (automatic)
2.8 12V VR6 1992–1995 2,792 cc (170.4 cu in) 130 kW (176 PS; 174 hp) at 5800 rpm 240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4200 rpm 230 km/h (143 mph) 7.2 s Select export markets
133 kW (180 PS; 178 hp) at 5800 rpm 240 N⋅m (177 lb⋅ft) at 4200 rpm 225 km/h (140 mph) 6.8 s (manual)
7.8 s (automatic)		 North America,
"Corrado SLC"
2.9 12V VR6 1991–1995 2,861 cc (174.6 cu in) 140 kW (190 PS; 187 hp) at 5800 rpm 245 N⋅m (181 lb⋅ft) at 4200 rpm 233 km/h (145 mph) (manual)
230 km/h (143 mph) (auto)		 6.9 s (manual)
7.9 s (automatic)
  1. 0–60 mph (97 km/h): 7.5 s (North America)
  2. ^ 0–60 mph (97 km/h)

Reviews

Auto Express magazine describe it as "Regarded as one of VW’s best ever drivers’ cars". The VR6 model was listed as one of the "25 Cars You Must Drive Before You Die" by the British magazine Car, and 'By far the most desirable version of the Corrado' by Auto Express.

In MSN Autos 'Cool Cars We Miss' feature they listed the Corrado among the top eight "Gone but not forgotten: a short list of cars once loved, still missed", describing it in the following manner: "The VW Corrado VR6 is coveted because of its seductive styling, road handling capabilities and its role as trailblazer, introducing the VR6 to the American market."

In 1988, in the first incarnation of the BBC television show Top Gear, racing car driver and presenter Tiff Needell reviewed the Corrado in G60 form, giving it a positive review and stating that "Handling wise, the Corrado is classic front wheel drive, and it's really very, very good indeed." In November 2003, in Series 3 of the relaunched Top Gear, Richard Hammond identified the Corrado as a future classic, "a kind of classic waiting in the wings... I think it's really rather special... the result is fantastic," but countered with the comment that it "was too expensive, and nobody bought it."

Sales

Year Production
1988
1989 24,389
1990 21,893
1991 17,058
1992 16,085
1993 8,623
1994 3,787
1995 2,424
Total 97,521

References

  1. "Volkswagen Classic - Volkswagen Designer im Portrait: Herbert Schäfer". Archived from the original on 5 July 2017. Retrieved 3 April 2013.
  2. ^ Riley, Neil. "History". VW Corrado G60.
  3. ^ "Eighties classics | Used Car Tests | Car Reviews". Auto Express. 20 February 2008. Retrieved 15 March 2012.
  4. "VW Names". Volkswagen. Derived from the Spanish verb "correr," meaning to run or to sprint. (Prototypes had a different, wind-related name that was nixed during development.)
  5. Mastrostefano, Raffaele, ed. (1990). Quattroruote: Tutte le Auto del Mondo 1990 (in Italian). Milano: Editoriale Domus S.p.A. p. 1137.
  6. "Volkswagen Corrado (89-96) 1.8 16V 3d - MPG, Dimensions & Performance". Parkers. 1 January 1992. Retrieved 25 May 2012.
  7. Miller, Edward K., ed. (April 1990). "Ward's Wrapup". Ward's Auto World. 26 (4). Ward's Communications: 10.
  8. "1992 Volkswagen Corrado VR6". carfolio.com. Retrieved 24 July 2018.
  9. Griffin, Larry (June 1992). "Corrado SLC: Hot enough to Fahrverg your nügens". Car and Driver.
  10. "1990-94 Volkswagen Corrado". 28 July 2014.
  11. Griffey, Evan (22 August 2011). "Cool Cars We Miss - MSN Autos". Editorial.autos.msn.com. Archived from the original on 2 October 2011. Retrieved 15 March 2012.
  12. "The one with... the unbreakable Hilux - BBC Top Gear". Topgear.com. Retrieved 15 March 2012.
  13. ^ "Annual Report 1990". Volkswagen.
  14. ^ "Annual Report 1992". Volkswagen.
  15. ^ "Annual Report 1994". Volkswagen.
  16. "Annual Report 1995". Volkswagen.

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