The Focus RS is not the only hot hatch revealed this week.
[Not a valid template]With all the excitement about the new Ford Focus RS, it’d be easy to overlook the reveal of another new hot hatch – the Opel Corsa OPC.
Due for its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next month, the Corsa OPC is a proper pocket rocket; just four metres long, but with 202bhp from its turbocharged 1.6-litre engine. That’s more grunt than its main rival in many markets, the Ford Fiesta ST, which has just 179bhp.
From a standing start, the Corsa OPC will hit 100kph in 6.8 seconds, and carry on to a top speed of 230kph. The chassis has been developed in collaboration with suspension firm Koni, and features frequency selective damping, which according to Opel “enables the damping forces to adapt to the frequency of the car”. Basically, it means a better balance between sportiness and comfort.
For those wanting even more performance focus, Opel is offering a Performance Package, which includes a mechanical multi-disk Drexler differential, 18-inch Michelin-clad wheels and a chassis with a more sporting set up, as well uprated Brembo brakes.
