Factory code: Type 53i
The Corrado is initially planned as the successor to the Scirocco II (Scirocco III). It is based on the VW Golf II and undergoes such significant technical improvements that it outgrows the Scirocco class. In 1984, the decision is made: the VW Scirocco II would continue to be built, while the model now called the Corrado would be positioned higher up the range and equipped with a more powerful engine.
The new Corrado is unveiled in autumn 1988. It breaks with the Scirocco II line and is a striking, very compact coupé (length: 4,048 millimetres) with a dynamic shape that echoes some details of the Scirocco I. Karmann in Osnabrück take over production again.
The 2+2-seater coupé offers high everyday practicality with a large tailgate and a boot capacity of 300 litres. A special feature is the automatically extending rear spoiler (in Germany at 120 km/h), which improves road holding at high speeds – and resembles the rear spoiler of the Porsche Carrera 964, which, however, extends at 80 km/h.
When it launches, the VW Corrado in Germany is equipped with a powerful four-cylinder long-stroke engine with eight valves and a displacement of 1,781 cubic centimetres. An innovative G-Lader gives the engine plenty of power. The model remains a front-wheel drive vehicle throughout its entire production run.
