The Volkswagen Corrado 1.8 G60 Automatic, produced from 1991 to 1993, represents a unique blend of sporty styling and accessible performance within the Corrado model range. Falling within the 53I facelift generation, this variant aimed to provide a more comfortable and user-friendly experience compared to its more performance-focused siblings, like the VR6. It occupied a mid-range position in the Corrado lineup, offering a step up from the base 1.8L models while remaining more affordable and less demanding to drive than the flagship VR6. The Corrado itself was built on the Volkswagen A2 platform, sharing components with the Golf Mk2 and Jetta Mk2, but distinguished by its distinctive coupe body style and more sophisticated aspirations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corrado |
| Generation | Corrado (53I, facelift 1991) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 G60 (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 222 km/h (137.94 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 181.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 3800 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | PG |
| Engine displacement | 1781 cm3 (108.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm (3.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1215 kg (2678.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1525 kg (3362.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 310 kg (683.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 235 l (8.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 810 l (28.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4050 mm (159.45 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1310 mm (51.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Suspension with traction connecting levers |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Corrado 1.8 G60 Automatic is the Volkswagen PG engine code, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine. What sets this engine apart is its use of a mechanically driven supercharger – the “G-Lader” – rather than a turbocharger. This supercharger provides instant boost, resulting in a very responsive and linear power delivery. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a 10.8:1 compression ratio. The supercharger is belt-driven off the crankshaft, and its output is regulated by a bypass valve to control boost pressure. The four-speed automatic transmission was a common unit used across the Volkswagen Group at the time, known for its smooth operation but not particularly sporty characteristics. It was designed to prioritize comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 horsepower and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the G60 engine, coupled with the automatic transmission, resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 138 mph. While not blistering, this provided adequate performance for the era and was certainly quicker than the base 1.8L Corrados. The automatic transmission, however, did detract from the sporty feel. Gear changes were smooth, but lacked the engagement and control offered by the manual gearbox. The supercharger’s instant boost meant that the engine felt lively at lower RPMs, but the automatic transmission’s programming sometimes resulted in the engine bogging down during quick acceleration. Compared to the VR6, the G60 Automatic felt less powerful and less engaging, but it offered a more relaxed and refined driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Corrado 1.8 G60 Automatic typically came equipped with features such as power windows, central locking, and a basic stereo system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, although leather options were available. The dashboard layout was typical of early 1990s Volkswagen, with a functional and straightforward design. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded stereo systems, and alloy wheels. The trim level generally sat between the base models and the more luxurious VR6, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The Corrado 1.8 G60 Automatic utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension at the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. Braking consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard equipment, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a reasonably compliant ride without excessive body roll. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to further reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corrado 1.8 G60 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a stylish and comfortable coupe. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for detracting from the car’s sporty potential. Fuel economy was reasonable for the time, averaging around 23 mpg combined. Compared to the VR6, the G60 Automatic was more affordable and offered better fuel economy, but lacked the VR6’s exhilarating performance. Compared to the base 1.8L models, the G60 Automatic provided a significant performance boost and a more premium feel.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Corrado 1.8 G60 Automatic has become a sought-after classic among enthusiasts. The G60 engine, with its unique supercharger, is particularly prized. While the automatic transmission isn’t ideal for performance enthusiasts, it does offer a more accessible entry point into Corrado ownership. Reliability is generally good, although the supercharger can require maintenance over time. Finding well-maintained examples is becoming increasingly difficult, and prices have been steadily rising in recent years. The Corrado 1.8 G60 Automatic remains a distinctive and enjoyable coupe that represents a unique chapter in Volkswagen’s history.
