The Opel Corsa A Sedan 1.2 S, produced from 1982 to 1983, represented an entry-level offering within the broader Corsa A range. This variant, characterized by its modest 55 horsepower engine, was primarily aimed at budget-conscious buyers in European markets. The Corsa A, launched as Opel’s replacement for the aging Kadett C, was a significant step forward in small car design, offering a more modern and efficient package. The Sedan body style, while less common than the hatchback, provided a traditional three-box design appealing to a segment of the market. This particular 1.2 S trim occupied the base position in the Corsa A Sedan lineup, offering basic transportation with a focus on fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa A Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 S (55 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1982 |
| End of production | 1983 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 33.1 |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 39.8 |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 14.1 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 152 km/h (94.45 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 55 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 46 Hp/l |
| Torque | 68 Nm @ 2200 rpm (50.15 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 12ST |
| Engine displacement | 1196 cm3 (72.98 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.8 mm (3.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 62.9 mm (2.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3955 mm (155.71 in.) |
| Width | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Height | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2343 mm (92.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1320 mm (51.97 in.) |
| Rear track | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.38 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 145/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Corsa A Sedan 1.2 S was the 12ST engine, a 1.2-liter (1196 cc) inline-four cylinder unit. This engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a carburetor, a common feature for vehicles of this era, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness over the more advanced fuel injection systems. The engine produced 55 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 68 Nm (50.15 lb-ft) of torque at 2200 rpm. The four-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine configuration. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout were relatively modern for the time, contributing to improved space efficiency and handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The Corsa A Sedan 1.2 S offered modest performance, reflecting its entry-level positioning. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 16 seconds, and its top speed was around 152 km/h (94.45 mph). The four-speed manual transmission provided adequate gear spacing for everyday driving, but the limited horsepower meant that overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to higher-spec Corsa A models equipped with larger engines (like the 1.3 or 1.6-liter variants), the 1.2 S felt noticeably underpowered. However, its lighter weight and simple mechanicals contributed to reasonable fuel economy, making it a practical choice for urban commuting.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 S trim level was fairly basic, focusing on essential features. Standard equipment typically included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout with analog gauges, and basic exterior trim. Power steering, central locking, and electric windows were generally not available on this trim level, or were offered as rare optional extras. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Optional extras might have included a radio, upgraded seat fabrics, or a sunroof, depending on the market.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa A Sedan featured a relatively simple chassis design. It utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a twist-beam rear suspension. The front brakes were disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride on typical road surfaces. The 145/70 R13 tires offered acceptable grip in most conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa A Sedan 1.2 S was generally well-received as an affordable and economical small car. Critics acknowledged its practicality and fuel efficiency, but also noted its limited performance. Compared to other small cars of the era, such as the Fiat Uno or the Renault 5, the Corsa A offered a slightly more refined driving experience and a more modern design. However, its competitors often offered a wider range of engine options and trim levels. The 1.2 S variant was primarily targeted at first-time car buyers or those seeking a basic, reliable mode of transportation.
Legacy
The Opel Corsa A Sedan 1.2 S, while not a performance icon, played a significant role in establishing the Corsa as a popular small car in Europe. The 12ST engine, while simple, proved to be relatively reliable, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, these Corsas are often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic, affordable, and easy-to-maintain vehicle. The Corsa A’s success paved the way for subsequent generations of the Corsa, which have continued to be a mainstay of the European automotive landscape. The 1.2 S variant, in particular, represents a snapshot of early 1980s automotive design and engineering, offering a glimpse into a time when simplicity and affordability were paramount.
