2005 Opel Astra OPC

OPEL ASTRA OPC

The Astra OPC was not a lightning war. But it had the merit to awaken a sleepy category. Since then, the Golf GTI and Megane RS picked by hand. The new Astra OPC proceeds to 240 hp and the power to impose terms.

 

The automotive history is replete with examples of builders who could not or have not taken advantage of their innovations. It is not always good to be right before the other ...
When Opel launched the Astra OPC in 2001, the compact sedan class purred and was more concerned to expand its offering Diesel. Hundred and sixty horses seemed then to be sufficient to arouse the interest of the sporting driver.
Today, the picture has changed. The Renault 19 16S has found a worthy successor in the person of the Megane RS 225 hp, and the VW Golf GTI 16S another in that of the new 200 hp GTI. These two new "GTI" in modern times have not only entitled to explosive engines: chassis and shape are in unison!

Opel was therefore sentenced to propose better. On the one hand because the new Astra is meant one of the fastest growing, segment, both in terms of style of road. On the other hand because the brand has made this the centerpiece of sportiness rebuilding its image. Hence the need for a flagship model for high performance.
The previous Astra OPC had finished his career with 200 horsepower, power now comes in version 2.0 Turbo. It should not be surprised to see the new OPC reach the threshold of 240 horsepower. Or as much as the new Porsche Boxster in basic configuration!
Decidedly, the Opel Performance Center or OPC deserves its name. This team of engineers that worked with the International Technical Development Center (ITDC) installed near the Opel plant in Rüsselsheim forty to extract additional horsepower four-cylinder turbocharged 2-liter. This block is now available in three variants of 170, 200 and 240 horsepower.
The changes focus on the intake systems and exhaust manifolds with redesigned in order to speed up the flow and reduce pumping losses. In addition, the boost pressure and capacity of cooling system have been revised upwards. Result, the Astra OPC accelerates from 0 to 100 km / h in under seven seconds and hit 240 km / h with its six-speed manual transmission. 

Closely derived from Astra HPC study unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last September, the Astra OPC hides under a dress unequivocally recalibrated version of the IDSPlus controlled suspension (Interactive Driving System) with continuously variable damping CDC (Continuous Damping Control).

We look forward to verify that electronic management is able to provide a better compromise between comfort and road holding that the Golf GTI and Megane RS. Until then, you'll be able to come and admire the Astra Sport Opel booth held at the next Geneva Motor Show, from ¹ to 13 March 2005. In the months and years ahead, expect also to see the rest of the family declined Astra OPC in the blazon.