Small and Sporty: Sales Start for New Opel Corsa GSi

• Powerful engine: Turbocharging for outstanding throttle response and pulling power
• Agile chassis: OPC chassis set up on Nürburgring “Nordschleife”
• Long tradition: First Opel Corsa GSi debuted in 1988 with 100 hp

New Opel Corsa GSi 

The eagerly-awaited new Opel Corsa GSi has arrived on the market. With turbo boost and OPC chassis the newcomer represents a machine for true connoisseurs. After the Insignia, the Corsa is the second GSi model now on offer. It impresses with its ultra-precise OPC chassis – for exemplary handling and short braking distances. The Corsa GSi is powered by Opel’s lively 1.4-litre turbo with 110 kW/150 hp and 220 Nm of torque (fuel consumption¹ l/100 km: 8.0-7.7 urban, 5.5-5.1 extra-urban, 6.4-6.1 combined, CO₂ g/km 147-139 combined). Mated to a short-ratio, six-speed gearbox, the four-cylinder power unit delivers outstanding punch in second and third gears, as well as a maximum torque plateau from 3,000 to 4,500 rpm.

The “hot hatch” from Rüsselsheim is therefore very quick off the mark (zero to 100 km/h is covered in only 8.9 seconds) and impresses with great elasticity: it takes just 9.9 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear. Top speed is 207 km/h. The sporty Opel Corsa GSi can be now be ordered for €19,960 (RRP including VAT in Germany).

The OPC chassis and the disc brakes with red calipers have been set up on the legendary Nürburgring “Nordschleife” racetrack by Opel’s Director Performance Cars and Motorsport, Volker Strycek. Agile handling and short braking distances are guaranteed, especially when combined with the optional 18-inch light alloy wheels with 215/40 ZR18 sports tyres.

The high performance of the new Opel Corsa GSi is complemented by the athletic exterior looks featuring large air intakes, sculptured bonnet, prominent rear spoiler and precisely modelled side sills. From the front, the bold Opel GSi fascia with large honeycomb grille and the central Opel Blitz supported by two wings, along with the exterior rear view mirror housings in carbon racing-look become visible. The large chrome-ringed design elements that are visually connected in a horizontal line via black crosspieces running across the front, along with the black traverse cleat on the bonnet support the impression of sportiness. The vibrant styling is also present when viewed from the rear. The prominent spoiler on the edge of the roof creates additional downforce, the sporty chrome tailpipe is framed by the vibrant design of the rear apron in body colour.

The feeling of pure sportiness is also conveyed by the interior of the Opel Corsa GSi, especially when the sports steering wheel, leather gearshift knob and aluminium pedals are complemented by the optional Recaro performance seat.

Sporty GSi cars have a long tradition at Opel. The first to raise the adrenalin level were the Manta GSi and the Kadett GSi (115 hp from 1.8 litres) in 1984. Only four years later the 2.0-litre DOHC 16-valve engine in the Kadett 2.0 GSi 16V delivered 150 hp. The first Opel Astra also featured this engine.

Opel Corsa GSi family was founded in 1988 by the 100 hp Corsa A (now a much sought-after classic) and reached a brief hiatus in 2012 with the Corsa D. Until now: Opel Corsa GSi is back.

  ^[1] Values measured according to WLTP and converted to NEDC for comparison.

Small Sports Star, Big Name: New Opel Corsa GSi

• Continuation of GSi tradition: Opel Corsa GSi to follow Opel Insignia GSi
• Pure precision: Sport chassis from fast Opel Corsa OPC sibling
• Uncompromising appearance: Dynamic Opel design with crisp and precise lines
• Touring car feeling: Recaro seats and sports steering wheel on inside, carbon elements on the outside

What you see is what you get: Sporty design of the Opel Corsa GSi reflects its fun-to-drive character.

Pure precision for pure driving pleasure: What the Opel Insignia GSi is already impressively showing in the midsize class, will be brought to the small car segment by the new Opel Corsa GSi. A precise sports machine that becomes a cornering virtuoso thanks to its sports chassis fine-tuned on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. The exterior design of the Corsa GSi leaves no doubts: Here comes a true athlete that is equally impressive in everyday driving.

“We are continuing our long GSi tradition with the new Opel Corsa GSi. There was already an especially sporty variant of the very first Opel Corsa, which is a sought after classic-to-be.

Our latest athlete will set new standards in the segment with its OPC sports chassis,” said Peter Küspert, Opel Managing Director Sales and Marketing.

True to the motto “hot, hotter, Corsa GSi” the three-door small car impresses with precise lines: It has a characteristic design with large air intakes, sculptured bonnet, prominent rear spoiler and precisely modelled side sills .From the front, the cheeky Opel GSi fascia with large honeycomb grille and the central Opel Blitz supported by two wings, along with the exterior rear view mirror housings in carbon racing-look become visible. The large chrome-ringed design elements that are visually connected in a horizontal line via black crosspieces running across the front, along with the black traverse cleat on the bonnet support the impression of road-clinging athlete. The vibrant styling is also present when viewed from the rear. The prominent spoiler on the edge of the roof creates additional downforce, the sporty chrome tailpipe is framed by the vibrant design of the rear apron in body colour.

Eye-catcher: Clean lines and a prominent roof spoiler – New Opel Corsa GSi looks the business from any angle, including the rear.

The pure feeling of sportiness is also conveyed by the interior. Opel Corsa GSi driver sits on the optional Recaro performance seat and puts his hands on the sports steering wheel. Select the gear via the leather gearshift knob, put your foot on the aluminium sport pedal and pure driving pleasure commences. Opel Corsa GSi also emits pure precision: The sport chassis known from the OPC version and the brakes with red callipers ensure precise athleticism, outstanding handling and short braking distances also when combined with the optional 18-inch light alloy wheels.

Opel Corsa GSi occupants can also enjoy outstanding connectivity with the optional IntelliLink infotainment system and bring the world of Apple iOS and Android smartphones into the car.

New Opel Insignia GSi Conquers the Nürburgring Nordschleife

• Best time: Up to twelve seconds per lap quicker than previous Opel Insignia OPC
• In the best hands: Volker Strycek and team put finishing touches to GSi at the Ring
• Best ingredients: Lightweight construction, mechatronic FlexRide chassis, all-wheel drive

Familiar territory: New Opel Insignia GSi shows what it is made of on the legendary Nordschleife of the Nürburgring.

The new Opel Insignia GSi is a precision instrument. Ten millimetres closer to the road than a normal Insignia and at least 160 kilogrammes lighter than a previous generation Insignia OPC. With intelligent all-wheel drive, that sends a perfectly dosed amount of power to each individual wheel thanks to torque vectoring. This improves handling even further and annoying understeer is eliminated. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres on 20-inch rims ensure an outstanding level of grip while the powerful Brembo brakes guarantee short braking distances and maximum safety. Furthermore, the direct steering, adjustable shock absorbers along with the engine and transmission control are interlinked and react sharply when the Sport Mode is activated. Briefly, the GSi is an automotive foil for aficionados of modern, highly efficient sports limousines. A “Connoisseur’s Choice” edition with the “Tested on the Nürburgring” seal of approval – because every sporty Opel is fine-tuned on the legendary Nordschleife.

“The toughest place in the world to test a car to the max” (Volker Strycek)

On June 18, 1927, the original 28 kilometre long “mountain, racing and test track” at the foot of the Nürburg was inaugurated. The founding fathers attached great importance to the Nürburgring containing sections with country road characteristics so that the booming automotive industry could test its cars accordingly. The first race in the Eifel was won by superstar Rudolf Caracciola, who later admitted that he found the course “really tough”, in 1927. Three-time Formula 1 world champion Sir Jackie Stewart later gave the hilly course, which is surrounded by forest, its legendary nickname – “The Green Hell”. Today, one of the leading experts on the Nürburgring is Opel Director Performance Cars and Motor Sport, Volker Strycek. In 2003, he won the 24-hour race in an Opel Astra V8 Coupé. More recently, Strycek and his team developed the set-up of the Insignia GSi on the Nürburgring.

“The lightweight architecture, the excellent chassis configuration with uprated damper hydraulics and software adjustment, the unique all-wheel drive along with the performance tyres make the GSi as precise and sharp as we wanted it to be,” said Strycek after his test drives. “The results speak for themselves. I can complete a lap of the Nordschleife in the new Insignia GSi up to twelve seconds faster than in the more powerful OPC predecessor – but I obviously push the car every inch of the way.

As soon as the course becomes more demanding such as in the corners or stretches with low friction, i.e. when the car needs to react in an especially agile and precise manner, the GSi is definitely faster and easy to control.”

“This is precisely the efficiency I expect from a modern sports car.”

The Opel engineers have treated the GSi to a new chassis compared to the new Insignia. Shorter springs lower the GSi by ten millimetres and special sports shock absorbers reduce body movements to a minimum. The powerful Brembo four-piston brakes (diameter 345 millimetre) and the already direct steering were adapted accordingly. The Insignia GSi is equipped as standard with the mechatronic FlexRide chassis. It adapts shock absorbers and steering in fractions of a second; the control unit also changes the calibration of the accelerator pedal and the shift points of the eight-speed automatic. The driver can choose between Standard, Tour and Sport modes. Subject to the chosen mode, steering and throttle-response is then even more direct. Exclusive to the GSi is the Competition mode, which is activated via the ESP button. A double-press allows skilful drivers more yaw and switches off traction control – for a fast lap of the Nordschleife, for example.

Nürburgring expert: Opel Director Performance Cars and Motorsport Volker Strycek pushed the new Opel Insignia GSi to the limit on the Nordschleife.

The sports-chassis, developed in combination with the extra grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres and big 20-inch wheels, offers almost limpet-like levels of adhesion. A major contribution comes from the all-wheel drive with torque vectoring fitted as standard, which is unique in this segment. In this high-tech system, a conventional differential on the rear axle is replaced by two clutches, which can accelerate each rear wheel individually in fractions of a second, depending on the driving situation.

“The all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring is truly unique in the Insignia segment. It banishes the tendency to understeer known from more conventional systems,” said Strycek.

The sports sedan is powered by an impressive gasoline turbo engine that combines fuel efficiency with performance. The powerful 2.0-litre turbo produces 191 kW (260 hp) and develops generous torque of 400 Nm (NEDC fuel consumption: 11.2 litres per 100 km urban; 7.1 l/100 km extra-urban; 8.6 l/100 km combined; 197 g/km CO2). Alternatively, the GSi is also available with the 154 kW/210 hp 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel (Official fuel consumption 2.0 BiTurbo in accordance with New European Driving Cycle: urban 8.9 l/100 km, extra-urban 6.1 l/100 km, combined 7.3 l/100 km, official specific combined CO₂ emissions 192 g/km) – a unit that is tailor-made for the Opel flagship and delivers torque of 480 Nm. Both four-cylinder units are mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. The driver has the option of shifting gears via paddles at the steering wheel without taking his hands off the steering wheel or his eyes off the road. In addition, the shift points of the automatic transmission can be preselected via the Standard and Sport modes.

The new Opel Insignia GSi is available as either a sports limousine or an even more family friendly estate – then called the Opel Insignia GSi Sports Tourer.

!NEW! Sports Machine for Connoisseurs: Opel Insignia GSi Makes the Difference

• Sharper: Sporty front and rear design plus eye catching 20 inch wheels
• More precise: FlexRide chassis and Brembo brakes tuned to optimum at Nürburging
• Efficient: Lightweight, turbocharging and friction optimized eight speed automatic
• Higher grip: All-wheel drive with torque vectoring, strong performing Michelin sports tires
• Better control: New AGR certified seats with high lateral support and comfort
• Quicker: GSi leaves more powerful OPC predecessor behind on Nordschleife
• Center stage: World premiere at Frankfurt International Motor Show mid-September

Sharper: New Opel Insignia GSi with sporty front and rear design plus eye catching 20 inch wheels.

Sharper, more precise, even more efficient. The new Opel Insignia GSi is a sports sedan for those who like something special. A driver’s car for maximum fun on all kinds of roads. The chassis with its very dynamic set-up and the particularly high level of grip, in combination with all-wheel drive, ensures a rewarding driving experience as well as maximum safety. The new eight-speed automatic transmission can be operated via shift-paddles at the steering wheel – like a racing car – for an even more active driving experience. Typical of the new Insignia-generation is the combination of lightweight design, low center of gravity and 2.0-liter turbo power. This results in excellent balance and a very good power to weight ratio. Such internal values deserve a special exterior. With large chrome air-intakes at the front and a neat rear spoiler for the necessary downforce on the rear axle, the GSi’s looks perfectly match the performance. The leather upholstered, integrated sports seats (specially developed for the GSi), the leather sports steering wheel and the aluminum pedals add the finishing touches. 

Fine tuning in the best Opel tradition has led to the most efficient Insignia ever that makes the new GSi dynamically different to the already agile Insignia Grand Sport. A new level of modern sportiness characterized by superb grip and razor-sharp precision – talents that fans of sporty midsize sedans will appreciate, which can also be seen on the stop watch. “The new Insignia GSi is clearly quicker over one lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife than the more powerful Insignia OPC of the previous generation” concluded Director Performance Cars & Motorsport, Volker Strycek after testing. One of the reasons is that the GSi is 160 kilograms lighter than a comparable Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 Turbo. Just like a lean athlete.

“It is this combination of low weight – especially on the front axle – low center of gravity, easy handling, high power over a wide rpm-band and best traction which makes the GSi so fast” says an enthusiastic Strycek. “That is pure efficiency. The high grip level is perfect for the Nordschleife and a fun-to-drive as well as safety advantage on public roads.”

On the “Green Hell”: the toughest race track in the world

The finishing touches were put to the Insignia GSi on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Here in the Eifel mountains Opel runs a test center for setting up its performance cars. The Opel engineers have developed an all-new chassis for the GSi on the Nürburgring, which triple F1 world champion Jackie Stewart famously described as the “Green Hell”. Shorter springs lower the GSi by 10 millimeters and special sports shock absorbers reduce body movements to a minimum. The powerful Brembo four-cylinder brakes (diameter 345 millimeter) and the already direct steering were adapted accordingly. The Insignia GSi is equipped as standard with the mechatronic FlexRide chassis. It adapts shock absorbers and steering in fractions of a second; the control unit also changes the calibration of the accelerator pedal and the shift points of the eight-speed automatic. The driver can choose between Standard, Tour and Sport modes. Subject to the chosen mode, steering and throttle-response is then even more direct. Exclusive to the GSi is the Competition mode, which is activated via the ESP button. A double-press allows skillful drivers more yaw and switches off traction control – for a fast lap of the Nordschleife, for example

The sports-chassis, developed in combination with the extra grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires and big 20-inch wheels, offers almost limpet-like levels of adhesion. A major contribution comes from the all-wheel drive with torque vectoring fitted as standard, which is unique in this segment. In this high-tech system a conventional differential on the rear axle is replaced by two clutches, which can accelerate each rear wheel individually in fractions of a second, depending on the driving situation. Annoying understeer, where the front wheels push towards the outside of the corner, is therefore almost banished from the Insignia GSi. In other words, the GSi takes a neat line through a series of turns.

The sports sedan is powered by an impressive gasoline turbo engine that combines fuel efficiency with performance. The powerful 2.0 liter turbo produces 191 kW (260 hp) and develops generous torque of 400 Newton meters (NEDC fuel consumption: 11.2 liters per 100 km urban; 7.1 l/100 km extra-urban; 8.6 l/100 km combined; 197 g/km CO₂). The four-cylinder unit is mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission. The driver has the option of shifting gears via paddles at the steering wheel. With the transmission shifting automatically the driver can even preselect the shift points in Standard and Sport modes. In addition to the 2.0-liter gasoline turbo, the GSi will also offer a powerful new diesel engine.

Sporty features: From new Opel performance sport seat to rear spoiler

The sporty capabilities of the Insignia GSi are matched by design cues, technology-highlights and accessories. At the top of the list is the new sports seat developed by Opel, which provides increased lateral support as well as long-distance comfort. The premium sports seat is AGR-certified (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.) and therefore ergonomically ideal. Just like in the Insignia Grand Sport it offers ventilation, heating, massage and adjustable side bolsters. In the GSi the tall seatback also features an integrated head restraint. The routing of the seatbelt at shoulder level is ideal, which is not a given for integral seats. The customer can choose from two leather combinations, each decorated with a GSi emblem. The logo also proudly adorns the rear of the car, which carries an efficient spoiler for the required downforce on the rear axle. The rear apron looks similar to a diffusor and features two chrome-edged exhaust pipes. Similarly chrome-edged air-intakes are located ahead of the front wheels. Fans will also appreciate the appropriate ambience in the interior, such as in the flattened lower area of the leather-wrapped steering wheel, the aluminum pedals and the black ceiling – in the best style of a very special sports sedan.

33-year tradition: GSi models from Opel

The Insignia GSi continues a long tradition of sporty Opel cars named GSi. The first to stir up excitement were the Manta GSi and the Kadett GSi (115 hp from 1.8-liters) in 1984. Only four years later the 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve engine in the Kadett 2.0 GSi 16V delivered 150 hp. The first Astra also featured this engine and in 1993 there was a 1.8-liter 125 hp alternative in the Astra GSi. There was also a GSi with various generations of the Corsa, beginning with the 100 hp Corsa A (1988) that has become a much sought-after classic. At the (provisional!) end of the line was the Corsa D in August 2012.

But now the new Opel Insignia GSi will make its world premiere at the IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show (September 14-24, 2017) and will be available to order in Germany in mid-October.

!NEW! All Systems Go for Opel Astra TCR’s Second Season

• Intensive further development of Opel’s customer racing touring car for 2017
• Technical partner Kissling Motorsport also takes over customer support 

Next step: Pierre-Yves Corthals, winner of last season’s TCR Trophy Europe, and Belgian team DG Sport Compétition are working on using two Opel touring cars in the TCR International Series.

Before the start of the 2017 international circuit racing season, the Opel Astra TCR is currently undergoing the last phase of technical development. Based on lessons learned from the 2016 debut season, a number of details were optimized on Opel’s 350 hp customer racing touring car during the winter in preparation for the 2017 homologation this March. After this takes place, the Opel Astra TCR can be used in all TCR series around the world. The TCR spectrum encompasses the global TCR International Series as well as a total of eleven national and regional championships, which include the ADAC TCR Germany. In addition, a number of endurance races such as the Nürburgring 24-hours, Barcelona and Dubai feature a class for TCR vehicles as does the most popular privateer sport series in the world, the VLN Endurance Championship Nürburgring on the legendary Nordschleife.

Enhanced Astra TCR: Opel’s 350 hp customer racing touring car has been further optimized over the winter.

The vehicle homologation will be preceded by the “Balance of Performance” (BoP) test on March 1-2 at the Adria International Raceway near Venice. During this test, the performance of all participating brands’ TCR vehicles is tested by a professional driver engaged by the TCR organization and the cars are then given a base classification. This ensures the competitiveness of all participating vehicles. If necessary, BoP adjustments will be made during the season to assure well-balanced starting fields and exciting touring car racing with large brand diversity.

Opel Astra TCR with driver Pierre-Yves Corthals

In addition to private use in various national championships, the Opel Astra TCR is also to perform on the international stage again this year. The Belgian team DG Sport Compétition – with driver Pierre-Yves Corthals and the Astra TCR the first title holder in the TCR Trophy Europe last season – is working on using two Opel touring cars for the TCR International Series. The season start is on April 2 at Rustavi International Motopark in Georgia.

2016 Opel Astra TCR on Nürburgring

To offer customers support that is as comprehensive as possible, Opel is intensifying cooperation with its longtime technical and development partner Kissling Motorsport. In future, in addition to developing and building the Astra TCR customer vehicles, the touring car specialists from Bad Münstereifel near the Nürburgring will also be responsible for all customer support. “We thus bundle all building blocks necessary for our customer racing program under one roof. This ensures streamlined processes, direct communication channels and efficient service for Astra TCR customers,” says Opel Motorsport Director Jörg Schrott.

!NEW! All-New Opel Insignia Grand Sport: Lighter, More Dynamic, More Agile to Drive

• Lighter: Up to 175 kilograms less than on outgoing model
• Fully integrated: Tailored sitting position and driver-oriented cockpit
• Always active: Adaptive FlexRide chassis with Standard, Sport and Tour modes
• Individual: Customizable Sport mode and self-learning software

More dynamic: All-New Opel Insignia Grand Sport has shed up to 175 kilograms compared to its predecessor.

Opel has given the Insignia Grand Sports everything a middle class sedan requires to ensure improved vehicles dynamics and a more agile drive. The newcomer has shed up to 175 kilograms compared to the outgoing models, which obviously benefits both the handling and the driving performance. The athlete is 29 millimeters flatter than its predecessor, the track has been increased by 11 millimeters, the overhangs have been reduced considerably and the wheelbase extended by 92 millimeters – this provides additional directional stability at high speeds. The further refined FlexRide chassis adapts dampers, steering and propulsion automatically or via the selectable ‘Standard’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Tour’ modes. This can best be put to the test on the legendary Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. The circuit is extremely challenging with its changing surfaces, straights and corner combinations. Every new Opel is put through its final paces here.

The team around Insignia chief engineer Andreas Zipser travelled to the test-drives on the Nürburgring with camouflaged prototypes. And the engineers the 21-kilometer long Nordschleife to search for the final percentage points en route to a perfectly tuned vehicle.

“You can feel that the Insignia has been developed from a white sheet of paper as soon as you get into the car. The integration of the driver is outstanding and this provides a much better feel for the car. The Insignia has become much more agile, even with the same engine,” said Zipser who is already looking forward to the next fast laps.

The chief engineer heads out of the paddock and takes the Opel Insignia Grand Sport onto the Nordschleife. He soon pushes the 5-door sedan to its limits, dives into the course section known as “Brünnchen” before skillfully mastering the “Pflanzgarten” – a section famous amongst motor sports fans. Opel’s new flagship is driving fast. Zipser enjoys the new, precise, speed-dependent steering and the position in the driver-oriented cockpit. The driver’s position is three centimeters lower than in the outgoing model and creates a feeling of actually being part of the car – the center console provides addition support, the instruments face the driver and all controls can easily be reached. All this results in a position similar to the one provided in a racing touring car and is ideal for a dynamic outing – not only on the Nürburgring.

For such a dynamic outing, the driver should ideally select the ‘Sport’ mode of the FlexRide chassis: The dampers are stiffened, the steering and throttle response are more direct. Furthermore, the ESP anti-skid system intervenes later, thus give the driver more leeway. In combination with an automatic transmission, the ‘Sport’ mode shifts up through the gears later – the Insignia is completely set-up for dynamic driving.

On the return route from the Nürburgring the driver can select between three modes according to the road characteristics and own preferences:

• Standard: The automatic control selects the best set-up based on the information collected by the vehicle sensors.
• Tour: Comfortable chassis configuration, propulsion settings for favorably consumption – the right mode for relaxing long-distance drives.
• Sport: Brake dive is reduced, the chassis angles considerably less when cornering at high speeds and the steering provides more direct feedback on the road conditions.

The FlexRide chassis electro hydraulically adapts the dampers to the road and the prevailing driving situation 500 times per second or 30,000 times per minutes. Furthermore, the driver can save personal preferences for the steering characteristics, throttle response and dampers via the Sport button.

“The new central ‘Drive Mode Control’ software is the heart and soul of the adaptive chassis. It continuously analyzes the information provided by the sensors and setting and recognizes the individual driving style. The individual systems are then optimized for the best traction and road position,” explained Zipser.

If, for example, the Opel Insignia Grand Sport is driving along in ‘Standard’ mode and the driver decides to attack the corners on a winding road with a bit more vigor, the software recognizes the more dynamic style based on the acceleration and braking value and immediately switches the chassis and propulsion components to sporty.

!NEW! Living the Dream – Aleix Espargarò and Ricky Cardús Drive Opel GTC OPC on the Nürburgring

• Motorcycling aces Aleix Espargarò and Ricky Cardús experience the Nordschleife with Opel
• Opel GTC OPC impresses the seasoned pros
• Fast laps and “taxi ride“ through the “Green Hell“ the highlights of the day

Pure athleticism: Motorcyclists Ricky Cardús (left) and Aleix Espargarò (right) pose with the dynamic GTC OPCs in the legendary “Karussell”

They normally speed around the most exciting racetracks in the world at over 300 kilometers per hour – but even a seasoned MotoGP ace can’t hide his joy when thinking about the 20.8 kilometer long asphalt road through the Eifel region that Sir Jackie Stewart once branded “Green Hell“. Aleix Espargaró is no exception. The 25-year-old Suzuki factory rider admitted that driving on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife was a childhood dream. Along with his Spanish compatriot and Moto2 rider Ricard “Ricky” Cardús he fulfilled that dream on Tuesday with the help of Opel before heading to the German Grand Prix set to take place on the Sachsenring.

In the morning, the two Spanish motorcycle racers, who both also have car racing driver licenses, each took to the wheel of Opel GTC OPCs with 280 hp and got to know the famous sections of the track such as “Schwedenkreuz“, “Fuchsröhre“, the “Karussell“, the “Brünnchen“, the “Pflanzgarten“, the “Schwalbenschwanz“,”Galgenkopf“ and “Döttinger Höhe“.

That was followed by a unique experience – Opel racing legend and MotoGP fan Volker Strycek who knows the Nordschleife like the back of his hand, took the motorcycling aces on a fast lap in the extremely dynamic Opel. Espargaró and Cardús were clearly impressed when they reeled off some additional kilometers in the GTC OPCs during the regular tourist drives on the Nordschleife. In the evening, the two Spanish motorcyclist were treated to another highlight when they followed former racing driver and current head of the Nürburgring Driving Academy Andreas Gülden on three fast laps. Gülden later praised the duo and insisted that they left a good impression on four wheels.

Both Espargaró and Cardús were overwhelmed by the impressions at the end of the day. “The Nordschleife really is the greatest racetrack in the world,” said Espargaró. “I have rarely had so much fun preparing for a MotoGP race. I will definitely be back. And the GTC OPC is a great car. The outstanding chassis and the high-torque turbo engine make it the perfect car for the Nordschleife,” he added. Cardús, a team-mate of German Marcel Schrötter in the Tech3 team, was equally impressed: „This ranks up there with the three best experiences I have ever had on a racetrack. It was brilliant.“

!NEW! Opel at Nürburgring 24 Hours Race – The legend lives on

Nürburgring 24 hours: ten Opel Astra OPC Cup cars compete in the world’s toughest endurance race on June 21 and 22. 

There are venues that hold an outstanding place in their respective sports. Without a doubt, the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife is one of the world’s most famous motor racing circuits – especially when the legendary ADAC Zurich 24h-race takes place there for the 42nd time on June 21 and 22, 2014. Opel, one of the most successful marques in the race at the “green hell,” will be represented by ten Astra OPC Cup cars, alongside numerous privately owned race cars.

Opel Astra OPC Cup - Racing car

Successful racing cars from Rüsselsheim have a long tradition in the 36-year history of the VLN endurance racing championship. Nine champions have driven to victory in an Opel, with the Rüsselsheim-based manufacturer responsible for 17 outright wins. With 594 class victories, Opel is the third most successful brand. The overall victory at the 2003 24 hours by Manuel Reuter, Timo Scheider, Marcel Tiemann and Volker Strycek in their Opel Astra V8 Coupé remains a memorable moment in motor racing.

Opel Astra V8 Coupé winning the 24 hours race at the Nürburgring in 2003.

Last year, Opel revived this grand Nordschleife tradition with its Opel Astra OPC Cup. The racing version of the Astra OPC, which has been optimized for the 2014 season to combine high performance and professional technology at an affordable price, provides the technical basis for the Cup models.

Opel Astra OPC Cup - Racing car

However, the 24-hour race on the Nordschleife is more than just an extremely demanding race. It is also the site of one of the largest events in international sports and attracts some 200,000 fans every year to a gigantic party for everyone lucky enough to be there.

The tension increases: The legendary ADAC Zurich 24h-race takes place on the Nürburgring for the 42nd time.

The 42nd ADAC Zurich 24 hours starts at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2014.

!NEW! Opel Astra OPC EXTREME: Uncompromisingly Sporty

• Study for low-volume production run: World premiere at Geneva Motor Show
• From the racetrack to public roads: Fastest-ever Astra on its way
• Turbo power and carbon fiber: Over 221 kW / 300 hp, 100 kilograms lighter than OPC
• Breathtaking looks: High-tech lacquer highlights sculptural Opel design

The new Opel Astra OPC EXTREME  - The fastest-ever Astra boasts more than 2.0 liter turbo engine with over 221 kW / 300 hp and is 100 kilograms lighter than conventional OPC.

The Opel Astra OPC EXTREME that makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in six days is a real race-bred performance car. Developed on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the most challenging race track in the world, it is powered by a 2.0 liter turbo engine with over 221 kW / 300 hp and equipped with all the key high-tech components from its racing peer, the Opel Astra OPC Cup. The Astra OPC EXTREME was developed directly from the Cup version and brings pure racing technology to the road. If public reaction is as positive as expected, Opel plans a low-volume production run for the super sporty, street-legal EXTREME.

2.0 liter Turbo Direct Injection engine with over 221 kW / 300 hp

Over 300 hp will be unleashed from under the EXTREME’s carbon fiber hood. Its 2.0 liter turbo gasoline engine, with Direct Injection and variable camshaft phasing, is quite simply the most powerful four-cylinder unit Opel has ever produced. The all-aluminum engine is mated to a slick, six-speed manual gearbox transmitting power through a limited-slip differential. This race-proven powerplant will have an easy time of it with the OPC EXTREME, because the super sporty car is 100 kilograms lighter than a conventional Astra OPC thanks to its high-quality, carbon fiber components.

Widely used in Formula 1 racing to reduce weight, carbon composite is incorporated throughout the EXTREME. This high-strength, ultra-light material is used for the aerodynamically-optimized rear wing, the diffuser, front spoiler, hood, suspension cross-bracing, the engine cover, complete wheels, rear wheelhouse ventilation and roof. The carbon wheels are 20 kilograms lighter than their aluminum counterparts. This is weight saving in a decisive area because unsprung mass is substantially reduced – much to the joy of engineers and driving fun of drivers. The inhouse manufactured carbon fiber roof is almost as light as a feather. It weighs just 2.6 kilograms, compared to a steel roof’s 9.3 kilograms, and noticeably lowers the Astra EXTREME’s center of gravity. The fenders are made of aluminum and weigh only 800 grams a piece instead of 2.2 kilograms in steel.

Weight reduction in key areas greatly improves agility, overall handling and, of course, the car’s power-to-weight ratio. As a result, the street-legal EXTREME sweeps through fast curves as playfully and quickly as its racing brother in the Nürburgring Endurance Championship (VLN). Opel has also given the EXTREME breathtaking stopping power to match, with a Brembo six-piston brake system including 370 mm diameter discs up front race car. Ultra high-performance, 245/35, 19-inch tires, specially developed for the EXTREME, also play a key role and give almost as much grip as those on the race car. In addition, the chassis (spring/damper) is adjustable, just like in a real touring car racer.

The pursuit of uncompromised performance continues in the design of the EXTREME’S cabin: the back seats are out and a safety roll bar is in. The driver and co-driver are perfectly positioned in specially-designed Recaro bucket seats, complete with six-point safety belts from Schroth. In the Astra OPC EXTREME, the crew doesn’t just sit in the car, they are fully integrated as part of the vehicle itself. The driver also has the tactile pleasure of gripping a superb, carbon-fiber-reinforced, suede-covered steering wheel with fine yellow decorative stitching.

Opel Motorsport’s core color also dresses up the Astra OPC EXTREME elsewhere, for instance in the exclusively designed logo and as lacquer on the side sills and front spoiler lip.

Apropos lacquer, the Astra GTC body format – the base model for the OPC EXTREME – ideally embodies Opel’s sculptural design philosophy. Its flowing, sculpted shapes and precise accents blend into dramatic proportions. The Astra OPC EXTREME’s multi-layer paint lacquer is combined with high-quality decal details to give a three-dimensional effect, further emphasizing the car’s clean edges, bold lines and athletic proportions.

“With the new Astra OPC EXTREME we show the pure joy of driving! This study is quite simply spectacular and driving enthusiasts will appreciate its looks, which are head-turning without grandstanding. Its interior is superb and typically Opel – exciting, precise and quality-made in Germany. The EXTREME is the new top-of-the-line model in our Astra family with all the attributes of a super sporty car,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

!NEW! Opel Astra OPC EXTREME: Super Sports Study for Geneva Motor Show 2014

Opel shows hot Astra OPC EXTREME as race-bred variant for public roads and track

Super sports car: This OPC EXTREME will be the fastest street-legal Opel Astra ever.

Opel will reveal a true super sports car at the 84th Geneva Motor Show (March 6 – 16). The study follows the tradition of the Astra OPC X-treme Concept shown in 2002. Then, as now, a real race car found its way from the racetrack to public roads. While the red OPC X-treme from 12 years ago remained a single specimen, the new EXTREME in typical Opel motorsport colors is to be the foundation for a low-volume production run. This OPC EXTREME will be the fastest street-legal Astra ever, true to the Opel Performance Center motto: “OPC. Pure Passion”.

Opel Astra OPC X-Treme Concept (2002)

The Opel Astra OPC EXTREME is a direct derivative of the Astra OPC Cup racecar from the Nürburgring Endurance Championship (VLN) – and street-legal ! High quality, carbon components reduce its weight compared to the 280 hp Astra OPC launched in 2012. An integrated safety structure, racing seats and six-point seatbelts means it comes equipped for the racetrack.

Opel Astra OPC Cup - Racecar

Opel Astra OPC EXTREME sports coupé features uncompromised racing technology for use on public roads – including the occasional detour to the Nürburgring Nordschleife. That’s where the idea for the Astra OPC EXTREME was born, at the Opel Performance Center which is based right next to the legendary track. Be it the Corsa OPC, Astra OPC or Insignia OPC – all Opel sports stars must successfully complete extensive, full-throttle test drives and a grueling 10,000 kilometer endurance program under the toughest conditions on the Nordschleife.

More information about the Opel Astra OPC EXTREME will follow next month.

!NEW! Opel is back in the "Green Hell"

Brand with the flash emblem shows the flag at the festival of Motorsport

Seven Astra OPC Cup teams take part in 24-hour challenge

Opel Astra OPC Cup 

Opel is back "is the motto at the 41st series of the 24-hour race (May 17 - 20, 2013) at the Nürburgring. In one of the official return to the rally and circuit shows the brand with the flash also the festival of motorsport flag. Around 200,000 visitors expected may Opel to about a dozen privately employed - including the all-new Astra OPC Cup racer and the Foxtail Manta cult status - happy.

One of the Astra OPC racing touring car is used by long-time Opel partner Kissling Motorsport in the traditional racing colors of white and yellow. Thanks to on-board camera TV viewers come (Sport 1) to enjoy pictures from the cockpit. For exclusive information from the racing scene provide the live commentary of the Astra OPC pilot Alex Hofmann. The ex-motorcycle GP pilot has experience with this kind of live coverage: "I am looking forward to use in Astra OPC at the 24 Hours on the ring. The car can be driven to great and is still really fast. I will do my best to resist the many spectators back the racing atmosphere directly from the cockpit unfiltered. "

VLN Endurance Championship in Nürburgring is the most popular endurance racing series in Europe.

Also around the two-storey hospitality over the NGK chicane where Opel dealers, their partners, employees and guests receive the Hofmann Astra will be 110 main topic of conversation with the starting number. In addition to an entertainment "around the clock" with permanent information on racing events also ex-DTM driver and Le Mans winner Joachim Winkelhock will be available for interview rounds and autograph actions. Another highlight is the "place in the front row" action: Opel transporter control during the 24 hours the tent and camp sites of many Opel fans in the "Green Hell". Her cargo, 1,000 Opel folding chairs will be distributed free to the fans.

The customer cars will compete in all ten rounds of the VLN season and there's a brand trophy - Astra OPC Cup - extend each other. As a highlight of the season participation is provided at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring.

"Such performances as here the engagement at the 24-hour race play a very important role in the restructuring of our company. We shape our brand profile, "says the strategy board of Adam Opel AG, Thomas Sedran. "Especially in width and sports clients, we build on a successful tradition. No other brand has so many enthusiastic fans at the track as we at the Nürburgring. These people are all in performance and quality orientation down to earth, honest and authentic - just like Opel ".

A total of seven teams go from the new Astra OPC Cup at the start. The use of the 300 hp Astra OPC are the loyal Opel fans on the "natural stands" around the Nordschleife as well with cheers and flag-waving reward as the pass-by of the legendary Foxtail Manta B, which already for the endurance classic 13 Takes time to attack.

The racetrack is a Opel's always been. The tour car sport the brand with the Lightning celebrated mainly on their "home track," the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, countless successes. Was in the professional field from 1993 driven by Manuel Reuter Calibra V6 an icon of fans, first in the DTM and eventually winning the title in 1996 in the successor series ITC. Other highlights: the brand championship in 1998 in the DTM / ITC series STW successor to the Vectra and the overall victory in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring in 2003 with an Astra V8 Coupe.

!NEW! Ring free for the Opel Astra OPC Cup

• Transfer of 20 Racing Touring cars at the Nürburgring
• Customer Teams can benefit from comprehensive service package

 

With the handover of 20 Astra OPC "Cup" takes the racing comeback of Opel to take shape. Right on traditional Nurburgring, the scene of future wheel-to-wheel duels, got drivers and teams the opportunity to know their use device closer. Protagonist of the official Opel return to the racetrack, the new Astra OPC in a race version for customer sport. The on the Nordschleife developed and coordinated Cup cars are technically designed for the VLN Endurance Championship Nürburgring. As part of this popular grassroots racing series in Europe - the starting flag for the first of ten races falls on 23 March - the Opel customer teams compete in a separate class and the Opel exclusive brand trophy, the Astra OPC Cup to score points. Highlight of the season, the 24-hour race on the Nordschleife (17 to 20 May).

"With the commitment in the VLN Championship makes us reflect on our motor sport roots, the grassroots", Opel Motorsport Director Joerg Schrott told pilots, team managers, VLN representatives and partners. "The Astra OPC, Cup 'offers our customers the ability to run high profile motor sport - with top equipment and sporting perspective on professional level and at reasonable cost. All 20 cars were sold within a few days. This overwhelming response confirms our pleasure and our new concept. "

For Opel grassroots approach includes a comprehensive benefits package. At the center of this package is the new emergency vehicle, the Astra OPC "Cup", which was developed by Opel in close cooperation with the proven partner Kissling Motorsport and built. It inspired the engineers consistently. To the ideas and needs of private drivers Team boss Stefan Kissling: "The series Astra OPC is well suited as a base for a racing car. In preparation for the first season we completed over 7,000 test kilometers with the Cup version. Here there was zero problems and no reason to touch the substance or changing something fundamental. "This resulted in a race car, the high performance and competitiveness at low cost offers.

The Astra OPC "Cup" with two-liter turbo engine produces 300 hp. For technical specifications include the lightweight body with carbon components and integrated security structure, the multi-adjustable Bilstein performance suspension and high-performance 6-piston monoblock brake system of Performance Friction.

About the excellent material also offers Opel motorsport customers the technical and organizational support to the racetrack and fair prices for spare parts. For added attraction provides a prize pot with attractive premiums. "That's a great concept from Opel," says his 48-year-old Berliner Thorsten Wolter of TKS Motorsport team. "The bill for our riders goes to full. With this car you can really move on the Nordschleife what. So I'm glad to have equal access. I look forward to an exciting season. "

Opel Astra OPC "Cup" - Specifications

 

Engine: 2.0 liter ECOTEC 16V, variable camshaft adjustment

Power: 300 hp at 5,600 min-1

Torque: 400 Nm at 2500-4500 min-1

Transmission: six-speed gearbox, front axle differential lock

Chassis: HiPerStrut front suspension, Watts link rear suspension, multi adjustable Bilstein performance suspension

Steering: Safety steering column, electro-hydraulic power steering

Wheels: ATS GTR, 9.5 x 18 inches

Braking system: Performance Friction 6-piston monoblock front calliper, ABS system

Disc: 378 mm ventilated (front), 314 mm ventilated (rear axle)

Body: lightweight bodyshell with integrated safety structure 

Inside: SPARCO Competition seat (HANS system capable), electrically triggered fire extinguishing system, side impact protection, 100-liter FT3 safety fuel tank, pneumatic quick lifting system (optional)

Outside: Carbon doors and hood, carbon fiber rear wing and front lip, broadened lightweight bumpers and fenders

Electrical: AIM Screen logger system with shift lamp and data recording

Dimensions and weight: length 4,600 mm, width 1,910 mm, height 1,390 mm, wheelbase 2695 mm, 1280 kg

Racing History: Opel sets milestones

In circuit racing sport for the brand with the flash mainly due to her "home course", the Nürburgring Nordschleife, countless touring car victories. Vision function were the triumphs in the professional sector. Thus, as of 1993, controlled by the Manuel Reuter Calibra V6 for Fan icon, first in the DTM and finally winning the title in 1996 in the succeeding series ITC. Other highlights: the manufacturers' championship in 1998 in the DTM / ITC series STW successor to the Vectra and the overall victory at the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring in 2003 with the Astra V8 Coupe.