The 1.6 litre engine benefits from a revised turbocharger and management system, as well as a sports exhaust with reduced back pressure. Interestingly, though, the two GM subsidiaries are reporting different results from these modifications.
Opel claims that power increases from 189 bhp (141 kW / 192 PS) to 206 bhp (154 kW / 210 PS), whereas Vauxhall reckons it only rises to 202 bhp (150 kW / 205 PS). That anomaly is possibly explained by the OPC car being optimised to run on 100 octane petrol, while the VXR has been set up for slightly tamer 98 octane fuel.
What both manufacturers do agree on is the extra torque, which improves from 230 Nm (266 Nm) to 250 Nm (280 Nm). The figures in brackets apply to the turbo overboost function, which can only be used in short bursts.
The effect on performance is a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.8 seconds, while top speed improves to 143 mph (230 km/h).
Significantly, that makes the Nürburgring Edition marginally quicker than the model that’s widely acknowledged as one of the best hot hatches on the market - the Renault Clio Renaultsport 200. But only just, as the Clio sprints to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds before going onto 141 mph (225 km/h).
Of course, how that tiny numerical advantage translates into real world driving will depend on how the Corsa handles the added power. To help, a mechanical multi-plate limited-slip differential is fitted that should hopefully improve traction and keep the dreaded understeer in check.
Replacing the stock spring and damper units are bespoke Bilstein items, which have been engineered to sharpen up the handling while reducing ride height by 20 mm at the front and 15 mm at the rear. The traction control, electronic stability control and anti-lock braking systems have all been recalibrated, too, and completing the chassis make-over are lightweight brakes from Brembo with high performance linings.
Distinguishing the Nürburgring Edition are new 18” high-gloss grey aluminium wheels, a front lip spoiler, the new exhaust and Nürburgring logos on the B-pillars, sill plates and front seat backs.
Buyers are certainly going to have to pay for the upgrades, though. In the UK a standard Corsa VXR costs £18,640, but the Nürburgring Edition will be £22,295.
That’s an awful lot for a Corsa, especially considering that £22,330 would buy the faster - and undoubtedly more desirable - Mini John Cooper Works. It also makes the £17,810 Renault Clio Renaultsport 200 seem rather a bargain by comparison.
In Germany, the Opel Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition will have a recommended retail price of €27,650 (including VAT).
Images © GM Corp.
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