1990-1994 Volkswagen Corrado: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Volkswagen launched its front-drive, hatchback sports car for 1990, in a single Corrado G60 price series with a supercharged version of the 4-cylinder engine used in the Golf/Jetta. Billed as Volkswagen's "first full-blooded sports car," Corrado succeeded the Scirocco, which left VW's lineup after 1988. Corrado measured 6.3 inches shorter than the Scirocco, but nearly three inches longer in wheelbase. Two inches wider, it weighed some 450 pounds more. The 1.8-liter supercharged engine produced 158 horsepower, driving a 5-speed manual transmission. Automatic was not available in the Corrado's opening season. Dubbed "G-Charger," the engine had a crankshaft-driven supercharger shaped like the letter G. Based on the Golf/Jetta platform, Corrado got standard 4-wheel disc brakes, with antilocking optional. VW-designed multispoke 15-inch wheels were standard. Corrados seated four. An "active" rear spoiler extended automatically when the car reached 45 mph to reduce aerodynamic lift. As speed dropped below 12 mph, the spoiler retracted again. Standard equipment includes power steering, air conditioning, an antitheft cassette stereo, central locking, power windows and mirrors, and a 65/35 split folding rear seat. Motorized front shoulder belts were installed, with separate manual lap belts. Only a handful of options were offered.