Photo Gallery: Opel Corsa Nurburgring Edition και Insignia OPC Unlimited [w/video]

H Opel έδωσε νέες φωτογραφίες των δύο γρήγορων εκδόσεων που έβγαλε τελευταία, του Corsa Nurburgring Edition και Insignia OPC Unlimited. Το Corsa OPC Nurburgring Edition, είναι μια άκρως συλλεκτική έκδοση του Corsa το οποίο σύμφωνα με το δελτίο τύπου προσφέρει μια “σπάνια ωμή δύναμη, επιδόσεις αλλά και πάθος“. Σχεδιαστικά διαθέτει νέο μπροστά spoiler, ζάντες 18″ ενώ θα είναι διαθέσιμο σε δύο χρώματα, κόκκινο και πράσινο (Henna red και Grasshopper green). Στο εσωτερικό φορά sport καθίσματα Recaro, μαρσπιέ στις πόρτες με λογότυπο Nurburgring Edition, μαύρα γυαλιστερά διακοσμητικά και λευκές ραφές.

Μηχανικά ο 1600-αρης turbo κινητήρας, χάρη στη νέα sport εξάτμιση και στην επαναπρογραμματισμένη ECU, αποδίδει 210 άλογα με 280 Nm ροπής. Χάρη στα 18 επιπλέον άλογα, τα 0-100 χλμ/ώρα τα κάνει σε 6.8 δευτερόλεπτα με την τελική να αγγίζει τα 230 χλμ/ώρα.

Σε ότι αφορά την οδηγική του συμπεριφορά, οι μηχανικοί της Opel έχουνε τοποθετήσει νέα ανάρτηση της Bilstein, μπλοκέ διαφορικό περιορισμένης ολίσθησης, φρένα της Brembo και επαναπρογραμματισμένο traction control και ESP. Η παραγωγή του θα περιοριστεί σε μόλις 500 μονάδες με την τιμή του στη Γερμανία να ξεκινά από τις 27.650 ευρώ.

Από την άλλη το Insignia OPC Unlimited δεν διαφέρει και πολύ από το απλό Insignia OPC, πέραν του ότι του έχει αφαιρεθεί ο ηλεκτρονικός περιοριστής ταχύτητας. Έτσι ο 2.8 λίτρων V6 turbo κινητήρας του απόδοσης 325 ίππων με 435 Nm ροπής, μπορεί να στείλει το αυτοκίνητα στα 270 χλμ/ώρα, 20 χλμ/ώρα περισσότερα από την απλή έκδοση, όπου η τελική ταχύτητα του περιορίζεται ηλεκτρονικά στα 250 χλμ/ώρα. Τα 0-100 χλμ/ώρα τα κάνει σε έρχονται σε 6 δευτερόλεπτα .

Το Opel Insignia OPC Unlimited διαθέτει μπλε δαγκάνες της Brembo και επανασχεδιασμένο πίνακα οργάνων ενώ θα είναι διαθέσιμο και σε μαύρο ματ χρώμα. Μηχανικά δεν έχει αλλάξει κάτι και έτσι το τετρακίνητο Insignia OPC Unlimited συνδυάζεται είτε με 6-τάχυτο μηχανικό είτε με 6-τάχυτο αυτόματο κιβώτιο και θα είναι διαθέσιμο σε όλες τις εκδόσεις του Insignia, sedan, hatchback και Sports Tourer wagon.

Αγοράζοντας το αυτοκίνητο, στη Γερμανία τουλάχιστον, ο οδηγός παίρνει δώρο και μαθήματα γρήγορης οδήγησης στην ιδιόκτητη πίστα της Opel στο Dudenhofen. Σε ότι αφορά την τιμή του, στη χώρα μας ξεκινά από τις €51.200.

Φωτογραφίες, video και αναλυτικά δελτία τύπου και για τα δύο μοντέλα με πλήρη τεχνικά χαρακτηριστικά στη συνέχεια.

Opel Corsa Nurburgring Edition

Opel Insignia OPC Unlimited

[Πηγή: Opel]

[learn_more caption=”Δελτίο Τύπου”]

New: Corsa OPC “Nürburgring Edition” and Insignia OPC “Unlimited”

• Corsa OPC “Nürburgring Edition” with 210 hp and high-performance chassis
• Insignia OPC “Unlimited” with up to 270 km/h top speed
• Outlook: Third generation of Astra OPC
• OPC has showcased the brand’s sporty potential and technical expertise for 12 years

Rüsselsheim. The sporty Opel OPC model family now has two attractive new members. The sporty small car segment is expanded with the 154 kW/210 hp Corsa OPC “Nürburgring Edition” in a limited edition of around 500 units. It differs from the familiar Corsa OPC by an increase in output from 192 to 210 hp and an increase in torque from 230 to 250 meters. Additional traction and drive stability are ensured by a mechanical multi-plate limited slip differential, a newly developed sports chassis by Bilstein and a high-performance braking system by Brembo.

Already the standard drive performance values indicate that the OPC engineers have again come up with a top-class dynamic package. The Corsa OPC “Nürburgring Edition” reaches 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h. The efficiency of its Euro 5 ECOTEC engine is underpinned by the (combined) MVEG standard data for fuel consumption (7.6 l/100 km) and CO₂ emissions (178 g CO₂/km).

In the mid-size class performance segment the 239 kW/325 hp Insignia OPC is now also available in an “Unlimited” version. In contrast to the base model, it has no electronic limitation of the maximum speed to 250 km/h. Depending on the body style and transmission variant, maximum speed goes up to 270 km/h. In order to ensure that the potential of the brand’s fastest production model is used efficiently and confidently, the purchase price includes an exclusive Opel performance driver training course.

As is obligatory for all Opel Performance models, the Corsa OPC “Nürburgring Edition” and the Insignia OPC “Unlimited” also underwent a specific 10,000-kilometer test program under the toughest conditions on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife to validate their endurance and to fine-tune the chassis and drive components. The stress placed on the vehicle as a whole reaches factor 18, which corresponds to driving 180,000 kilometers on normal roads.

Passion Meets Tradition: Opel Corsa OPC “Nürburgring Edition”

• Output 154 kW/210 hp – maximum torque of up to 280 Nm
• Mechanical, multi-plate limited slip differential on the front axle
• Newly-developed Bilstein performance chassis
• Special, high-performance brakes by Brembo

Rüsselsheim. Opel once again underlines its tradition-rich bond with the Nürburgring. The limited special edition of the Corsa OPC ‘Nürburgring Edition’, based on the recently completely updated Opel Corsa, will offer the ideal blend of power, performance and passion. Some 500 units of the limited edition are planned. Following the Nürburgring Edition of the Astra OPC, which was introduced in 2008, Opel is now dedicating a second OPC model to the legendary racecourse in the Eifel.

The new top Corsa model gets its additional power reserves from a newly tuned turbo charger, an exhaust system with reduced back pressure, optimization for 100 octane fuel and accordingly modified engine management. This increases the maximum output of the 1.6-liter OPC turbo engine from 141 kW/192 hp (at 5,850 rpm) to 154 kW/210 hp (at 5,850 rpm), resulting in power output per liter of 131.4 hp which is a top value in this engine class. The maximum torque of the base engine (230-266 Nm at 2,000-5,850 rpm) is also increased, and in the ‘Nürburgring Edition’ reaches 250 to 280 Newton meters at 2,250-5,850 rpm, delivering maximum power when the turbo charger is in overboost mode.

Maximum traction with multi-plate limited slip differential

In order to convert this power into efficient propulsion, the front axle is equipped with a mechanical, multi-plate limited-slip differential. This helps reduce wheel slip when there are very high lateral forces under acceleration, for example, or changes in the texture of the road surface. It is also ideal for forays onto the race track. The coordination of the differential with a static basic locking torque guarantees a harmonious response and transition behavior between load and overrun, eliminates influences on the steering and self-steering behavior during overrun, and ensures traction reserves in the case of highly varied wheel loads. The electronic characteristics of the propulsion-side slip-control system (TC, ESP) have been re-tuned in accordance with the characteristics of the limited slip differential. Through the interaction of limited slip differential and control systems, maximum drive stability is ensured even at the stability limit.

Special developments: High-performance chassis, high-performance brakes

The chassis of the top Corsa model has also been retuned. Changes include an even lower body (front 20 mm/rear 20 mm), new springs and Bilstein gas pressure monotube shock absorbers with altered characteristics, as well as a new brake system by the Italian specialist Brembo at the front axle.

The four-piston braking system is equipped with specially developed high-performance brake pads that offer 10 percent more braking surface than the current Corsa OPC. At the same time the weight of the brake calipers was reduced by 30 percent. The advantage of the Brembo brake is its further improved ventilation and cooling under maximum load. The electric power steering, which was optimized in the course of the Opel Corsa’s most recent model upgrade in terms of precision, power development and response, blends in harmoniously with the overall system.

Top-class driving performance

The driving performance values only hint at how the Corsa OPC ‘Nürburgring Edition’ actually feels to drive. It reaches 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds and its elasticity also profits from the powerful torque development. The compact sporty car can sprint from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear in just 6.2 seconds, and with a maximum speed of 230 km/h it is at the top of its class. The special edition is literally music to the ears of sporty car enthusiasts: the newly developed exhaust system is also acoustically tailored to the vehicle’s dynamic character. The efficiency of its Euro 5 ECOTEC engine is underpinned by the standard data (MVEG, combined) for fuel consumption (7.6 l/100 km) and CO₂ emissions (178 g CO₂/km).

In terms of looks and equipment, the quick little sprinter has a range of eye-catching features. These include two new, exclusive body colors – apple-green ‘Grasshopper’ and the copper tone ‘Henna’ – as well as the newly designed 8 x 18-inch alloy wheels in high-gloss grey and 225/35 R 18 V tires. Other features distinguishing the ‘Nürburgring Edition’ from the existing Corsa OPC are a front spoiler lip and the dual exhaust in stainless steel, as well as Nürburgring logos on the B-pillars.

The ‘ring expert’s’ interior features unique door sill plates (black and Nürburgring Edition lettering), and decorative white stitching on the front Recaro sports seats, the rear bench seat, handbrake and gearshift console. The front seats are also embossed with a special Nürburgring logo and the steering wheel insert is finished in piano black.

The name says it all: Dynamic fine-tuning on the Nürburgring

The special model’s brilliant driving dynamics were fine-tuned on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, probably the most demanding racecourse in the world. The bond between Opel and the Nürburgring is steeped in tradition and goes back to the 1960s. It was further strengthened in 2006 by the establishment of a strategic partnership. The Nordschleife is rightly regarded as the home of Opel, because this is where Opel vehicles are really put to the test before going into series production.

In addition to the standard test programs that are part of vehicle development, all OPC models have to pass an additional 10,000-kilometer test program in the stability limit zone for the purpose of fine-tuning and reliability validation. It is no surprise that the sporty Opel models are among the fastest in the “green hell”, as three-time Formula 1 world champion Sir Jackie Stewart once called the Nordschleife. Before the Corsa OPC, both the Astra OPC and Zafira OPC already achieved track records in their classes here.

Opel brand ambassador Joachim ‘Jockel’ Winkelhock, who works on the chassis fine-tuning of Opel models, is thrilled: “The Corsa OPC ‘Nürburgring-Edition’ responds magnificently to steering commands and remains predictable well into the physical stability limit zone.”

The recommended retail price for the Opel Corsa ‘Nürburgring Edition’ is 27,650 euros. It can be ordered in Germany as of mid June, and the start of production is planned for August 2011.

Opel Corsa OPC “Nürburgring Edition”: Technical Data Overview

The stated consumption figures were calculated according to the measuring procedures stipulated in directive 80/1268/EEC in the respective valid version – in particular as amended by directive 1999/100/EC.

Emotional Spearhead: Opel Insignia OPC “Unlimited”

• Up to 270 km/h top speed depending on body and transmission variant
• OPC driver safety training included in purchase

Rüsselsheim. The 239 kW/325 hp high-performance all-wheel drive variant of the Opel Insignia – distinguished by ‘OPC’ in its model name – is now also available as an “Unlimited” version without electronically limited maximum speed. The fastest car in the Opel product portfolio fully taps the maximum driving dynamics potential of OPC technology. “With this, we are responding to a request frequently expressed by our customers,” says Alain Visser, Vice President Sales, Marketing and Aftersales at Adam Opel AG. “Insignia OPC buyers are generally experienced and responsible drivers who want to enjoy all the technical capabilities of their car.”

The Insignia OPC “Unlimited” customer package includes an exclusive OPC performance driver training course at the Opel proving grounds in Dudenhofen. This is where OPC drivers learn to handle the driving dynamics potential of their vehicle even more confidently and safely under the watchful eye of Opel brand ambassador Joachim Winkelhock and his team of highly skilled instructors.

Top-class driving performance

The driving performance of the Insignia OPC “Unlimited” is impressive. Maximum speed varies slightly depending on body style and transmission variant, reaching up to 270 km/h in the notchback version with six-speed manual transmission. The other performance data is identical to that of the limited versions: the Insignia OPC models can sprint to 100 km/h in 6.0 to 6.6 seconds, while combined cycle (MVEG) fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions range from 10.6 l/100 km and 249 g/km to 11.0 l/100 km and 259 g/km.

The dynamic spearhead of the Opel model portfolio is available in the three body variants of the regular Insignia lineup: the classic dynamic notchback sedan, an elegant five-door hatchback and the stylish and functional Sports Tourer. In the OPC version, the Insignia Sports Tourer was crowned “Sports Car of the Year” twice in succession (2009, 2010) by the readers of “Auto Bild Sportscars”.

Attractive powertrain alternative: New six-speed automatic transmission

The new six-speed automatic transmission for the Insignia OPC combines sporty dynamics and driving comfort at an especially high level, offering an attractive alternative to the manual version.

In addition to the automatic function, a further shift mode is available that enables the driver to shift gears manually – optionally via rocker switches on the steering wheel. The transmission control system is linked to the Insignia OPC’s mechatronic FlexRide chassis, which offers a standard setting with balanced driving and handling characteristics for everyday driving as well as two further modes. The ‘Sport’ mode ensures higher agility and more direct vehicle response, while the ‘OPC’ function offers uncompromising handling dynamics. In this mode the electronic damper control switches to minimum body movement and maximum handling stability, while steering and accelerator pedal are more sensitive in their response.

Fast, efficient, intelligent: 4×4 all-wheel drive

The Insignia OPC’s innovative adaptive 4×4 system also ensures precise handling, top driving stability and maximum traction.

The system’s main components are a sport differential with electronically controlled and hydraulically operated Haldex multi-plate clutch which variably distributes the drive torque between the front and rear axle depending on traction and driving conditions. The Haldex unit and the rear axle differential – which can also be automatically locked – are grouped together in a compact, weight-saving unit on the rear axle (rear drive module).

Like all Opel Performance models, the Insignia OPC “Unlimited” had to complete an OPC-specific 10,000-kilometer test program under the toughest conditions on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife for fine-tuning and validation. The stress placed on the vehicle as a whole during this testing reaches factor 18, which corresponds to driving 180,000 kilometers on normal roads.

Elegant details – Version in matte black planned

In contrast to its outstanding driving dynamics, the optical features of the Insignia OPC “Unlimited” are more reserved. Special features include blue lacquered Brembo lettering as well as a newly designed instrument panel. Those with more extravagant tastes can also look forward to a special edition with a matte black exterior for an especially striking look.

The Insignia OPC “Unlimited” is already available at dealerships with prices starting at a recommended retail price of 48,605 euros for the notchback version with manual transmission.

Opel Insignia OPC “Unlimited”: Technical Data Overview

The stated consumption figures were calculated according to the measuring procedures stipulated in directive 80/1268/EEC in the respective valid version – in particular as amended by directive 1999/100/EC.

The OPC brand: Performance and passion since 1999

The Opel Performance Center (OPC), responsible for the sporty accents in the Opel model lineup since 1999, is a decisive element in the brand’s value profile. It embodies a high level of emotionality and passion for striking design, top-class technology and extraordinary driving dynamics. The vehicles with “OPC” in the model name are positioned as the top-of-the-line sporty variants of the respective model lines, and demonstrate the brand’s high potential and technical expertise.

Over the years, the OPC models have not only established themselves as high-performance brand ambassadors with a high emotional factor, they are also commercially successful: from 1999 until today, around 60,000 units were sold worldwide. The biggest seller has been the Astra OPC (around 22,000 units, 1999-2000 and 2002-2010), ahead of the Zafira OPC (around 15,600 units, 2001-2010) which, as “’s fastest van”, defined a new sporty niche within the van segment. It is followed by the Corsa OPC with around 14,500 units sold (2007-2010).

The OPC models in the high-performance mid-size class also made a major contribution to the sales success. The foundation was laid by the Vectra OPC with over 3,000 units sold (2005-2008). Building on this, the Insignia OPC introduced in 2009 reinforced the trend and sold more than 3,000 units in the first two years (2009-2010).

The most important markets were Germany (around 33 percent), Great Britain (some 28 percent) and Switzerland (around 14 percent).

Sporty flair: “OPC Line” for Opel production models

In addition to performance-oriented OPC model buyers, many customers also individualize their Opel production model with top-quality “OPC Line” accessories. These can be ordered directly ex works for new cars. People who already own an Opel can have their vehicle retrofitted by an authorized Opel service partner.

The OPC Line offers bodywork components, alloy wheels and interior details such as steering wheels and gearshift levers which have all been developed and fine-tuned for the respective model by Opel designers and engineers. The articles fulfill the most demanding requirements in terms of quality and fit, and come with a 24-month works guarantee.

Popular and exclusive: OPC Performance driver training

The exclusive OPC Performance Trainings, offered since the fall of 2006, are extremely popular with ambitious drivers and booked out well in advance. They are open not only to Opel drivers or owners of OPC models, but also to drivers of all makes of vehicle.

The exclusivity of the one-day event starts with the location. It all takes place at the usually tightly screened-off Opel test center in Dudenhofen, where prototypes and future Opel models are developed to series production. Participants learn to use the dynamics of the OPC models in a controlled and safe manner from a professional team of instructors under the watchful eye of the former Opel works pilot, Le Mans champion and brand ambassador Joachim Winkelhock. The primary aim of the training is maximum driving fun through maximum vehicle control.

Highlight: Racing driver casting “OPC Race Camp”

The performance driver training concept also served as the basic idea and the basic training for “OPC Race Camp”. This novel motor sports format developed by Opel is distinguished by several innovations: only normal drivers who show talent are allowed to participate, the selection and the various training stages take place in the popular casting elimination format – and the winners can look forward to driving for Opel at the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring.

The public and media response to the first two seasons (2008, 2010) was enormous. Over 22,000 aspiring racing drivers applied for the second season, 750 of them made it to the short list. The top eight reached their ambitious target after 12 casting stages. With two Astra racing cars with over 300 hp they not only attended the legendary long-distance race in the “green hell”, but played a central role in it. The high standard and quality of the training concept were clearly reflected in the final result. In a field of just under 200 vehicles, wheel to wheel with professionals and racing legends like Hans-Joachim Stuck, the race camp rookies took places two and three in their class and the positions 19 and 22 in the overall standings.

Major OPC project: Third-generation Astra OPC

Enthusiasts and Opel fans are already impatiently awaiting the next OPC project. OPC engineers are planning the third generation of the Astra OPC. As the top model in the Astra range, the coming Astra OPC will open a new chapter in the compact sports car segment. At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Opel gave a glimpse of the dynamic lines, sculpted surfaces and powerful appearance with the Astra GTC Paris study. The dynamic three-door model’s propulsion, a high-tech turbo engine with direct gasoline injection, provided an initial impression of the future Astra OPC’s tremendous driving dynamics and performance potential.

OPC milestones

1997: (OPC) founded

1999: Market launch of the first generation Astra OPC (2.0-liter aspirated engine, 118 kW/160 hp) – the limited edition of 3,000 units is sold out within four months.

2001: Market launch of the first generation Zafira OPC (2.0-liter turbo engine, 147 kW/200 hp) – around 12,000 units sold up to the model update in 2005.

2002: Market launch of the second generation Astra OPC (2.0-liter turbo engine, 147 kW/200 hp) – available as a three-door version and station wagon.

2004: Launch of the OPC Line range.

2005: Market launch of the current Astra OPC (2.0-liter turbo engine, 177 kW/240 hp);

Market launch of the second generation Zafira OPC (2.0-liter turbo engine, 177 kW/240 hp);

Market launch of the Vectra OPC (2.8-liter V6 turbo engine, 188 kW/255 hp) – available as a sedan and station wagon.

2006: Market launch of the Meriva OPC (1.6-liter turbo engine, 132 kW/180 hp);
2.8-liter V6 turbo engine with 206 kW/280 hp for the Vectra OPC.

2007: Market launch of the Corsa OPC (1.6-liter turbo engine, 141 kW/192 hp);

Optional six-speed automatic transmission for the Vectra OPC.

2008: Special model Astra OPC “Nürburgring Edition” in limited edition.

2009: Market launch of the Insignia OPC – available as a 4/5-door sedan and Sports Tourer with the most powerful Opel production engine of all time (239 kW/325 hp).

2010: Second season finale of the Opel racing driver casting “OPC Race Camp”: number 2 and 3 in their class (SP3T) and 19 and 22 in the overall standings (196 vehicles) for the two Astra racing cars at the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring.

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