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Opel Corsa celebrates 30 years today

The Opel CorsaOpel CorsaGermany, 1982 > 20065 series
327 versions
500 photos
1 video
is celebrating its 30th birthday on August 30. The production of the first generation CorsaOpel Corsa Gen.1Germany, 1982 > 19939 versions
14 photos
started in 1982 at the Figueruelas plant in Zaragoza, Spain, which was set up for OpelOpelGermany, 1863 > present85 models
5151 photos
8 videos
´s first modern, small car. Until 1982, the compact KadettOpel KadettGermany, 1936 > 19997 series
67 versions
122 photos
was the brand´s entry level model. With the arrival of the smaller and more affordable Corsa A, Opel entered a new segment and opened a new chapter in its history.

In the last 30 years, nearly 12 million Corsa across 4 generations have been built and sold in Europe. This makes the Corsa the most popular label in Opel´s history. Taking into account all the global derivatives within the General MotorsGMUnited States of America, 1998 > present8 models
240 photos
family, around 20 million Corsa-based vehicles have been produced or assembled and sold around the world.

While available in many different shapes, from convertible to pick-up, Corsa is now available in three distinct body styles: the coupé-like three-door, the five-door, and the commercial variant, the Corsavan. It currently accounts for more than 28 percent of all Opel/Vauxhall sales making it the second biggest seller of the brand, trailing closely behind the Astra with around 30 percent.

The sales success over the decaeds has also been fuelled by a number of awards. Right after its launch in 1982, the first generation Corsa A received the “Golden Steering Wheel” award in Germany. Later several Corsa generations won national “Car of the Year” awards in various countries. The current generation was voted “Autobest 2007”. Besides, the jury awards, many customers have opted for the Corsa as it offers a wide range from economic versions to more powerful and sporty runabouts. The strongest and fastest Corsa ever is on offer since 2011: the Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition. Its 1.6 liter turbocharged gasoline engine has an output of 155 kW/210 hp and a provides top speed of 230 km/h, while acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h is achieved in 6.8 seconds.

The Opel Corsa since 1982

The Corsa was Opel's first modern small car. It was introduced in 1982 as the Corsa A and continues to be produced in its fourth generation, the Corsa D, today. Over the generations, it has consistently been one of the best selling models of the German brand and ranks amongst the most popular small cars on the European markets.

Opel Corsa A

In 1982, Opel celebrates the world premiere of the first-generation Opel Corsa, with initial sales starting in Southern Europe. Production begins at the new Corsa plant in Zaragoza, Spain and the Corsa A is awarded the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’ by the German newspaper "Bild am Sonntag".

Opel Corsa A GSi

The Corsa GSi variant is launched in 1987 with 98 hp and in 1989 the total Corsa output reaches two million cars. In the following year, the model gets a facelift, enhancements include a new front fascia, updated interior design with a new instrument panel and a new 1,2 l engine.

Opel Corsa B

The new Corsa B's life cycle starts exactly after 3.1 million units of the previous “A” model have been made. It comes with a comprehensive safety equipment package offers a broad portfolio with a station wagon, pick-up truck and four-door sedan.

Opel Corsa B

Full-size airbags are available in the front of the 2nd generation Corsa. From 1997, Europe's first three-cylinder, four-valve engine can be found under the hood of the Corsa. Towards the end of this generation, about one million Corsas are built annually, and the car is now available in 75 countries all over the world

Opel Corsa C

The Corsa C is introduced in 2000. It has bigger interior space than predecessors thanks to the longest wheelbase in its class. In the following year, the fastest Corsa of all time is launched: the GSi (92 kW/125 hp) reaches a top speed of 204 km/h.

Opel Corsa C

By 2002, production of Corsa-based vehicles since 1982 is more than eleven million units.

Opel Corsa D

The Corsa D marks the fourth generation of Corsa cars and is launched in 2006. It has three and five-door variants including a variety of powertrains.

Opel Corsa D

Also into its fourth generation, the Corsa continues to be a best seller. Up to and including August 2012, the Spanish plant in Zaragoza has produced 9.3 million Corsa. In addition, 2.5 million units have been built at the other European plant in Eisenach, Germany.