top of page

Volkswagen Corrado VR6 (1988-95)

Production Total: 97,521
Recorded in UK 2024
Licensed=42 SORN=95
16v Licensed=252 SORN=880
Automatic Licensed=0 SORN=5
G60 Licensed=152 SORN=566
Storm VR6 Licensed=6 SORN=10
Storm VR6 Automatic Licensed=0 SORN=1
VR6 Licensed=657 SORN=1264
VR6 Automatic Licensed=27 SOERN=42

Volkswagen Corrado VR6 (1988-95)

The Volkswagen Corrado VR6—a car that's both a head-turner and a bit of an enigma. Let's dive into the world of this unique coupe and explore its common quirks and foibles.

1. **Plastic Cooling Parts**: The VR6 engine in the Corrado has a penchant for cracking plastic cooling components. Radiator necks, thermostat housings, and other bits can develop tiny fissures over time. It's like the engine is saying, "Hey, I'm hot stuff, but my plastic bits are feeling a bit brittle!" Keep an eye on those hoses and connectors.

2. **Engine Harness Woes**: The wiring harness in the Corrado VR6 isn't immune to trouble. Over time, it can develop cracks or insulation wear, leading to electrical gremlins. If you notice mysterious electrical glitches—lights flickering, sensors misbehaving, or the radio doing interpretive dance—it might be harness-related.

3. **Maf Failures**: The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor can sometimes throw a tantrum. If your Corrado stumbles during acceleration or idles like it's practicing for a jitterbug contest, check that MAF. It might need a gentle cleaning or replacement.

4. **Door Handle Drama**: Corrado door handles have been known to stage walkouts. They'll work fine one moment, and the next, they're like, "Nah, I'm not opening for you today." Keep a spare handle handy—you know, just in case.

5. **Window Regulator Rebellion**: Window regulators in the Corrado can be a bit temperamental. Sometimes they decide to retire early, leaving your window stuck in an awkward position. Patience and a good playlist are essential during window regulator repairs.

6. **Coolant Leaks**: The Corrado's cooling system can be leakier than a sieve. Keep an eye on coolant levels and inspect hoses regularly. If you see a puddle under your car, it's not practicing for a synchronized swimming routine—it's probably coolant.

7. **Gritty Gearbox**: Some Corrados suffer from a gearbox that feels like it's been rolling around in a sandbox. If your shifts are crunchier than a bag of chips, consider checking the transmission fluid and possibly replacing worn synchros.

8. **Timing Chain Stretch**: The VR6 engine's timing chain can stretch over time. If it gets too loose, it messes with the engine's timing, leading to performance issues. Regular maintenance and timing chain checks are crucial.

9. **Head Gasket Blues**: Head gaskets occasionally decide they've had enough of this combustion business. Keep an eye out for coolant mixing with oil or mysterious overheating. If your Corrado starts steaming like a teapot, it's time to investigate.

10. **Intake Runner Rattle**: Some Corrados suffer from an annoying rattle from the intake manifold. It's like the engine is trying to play the maracas. Fortunately, there are fixes for this, including upgraded intake manifold runners.

Now, should you own a Corrado VR6? Well, it's a bit like adopting a quirky pet. Sure, it might have its eccentricities, but it's also full of character. If you're up for the adventure, go for it! Just remember to keep a toolbox and a sense of humor handy.
*****
Generations
Ah, the Volkswagen Corrado—a car that danced its way into the hearts of enthusiasts like a tango partner with a secret moonwalk move. Let's unravel the generations of this charismatic coupe!

1. **First Generation (1988–1995)**:
- The Corrado made its debut in 1988, waltzing onto the automotive stage with a flourish. It was a compact, three-door liftback coupe designed by Herbert Schäfer and manufactured by Karmann in Osnabrück, Germany.
- This generation overlapped with the Volkswagen Scirocco and eventually replaced it. Picture it: the Scirocco doing its final cha-cha, and the Corrado stepping in with a confident twirl.
- Engine options included a 1.8-liter 16-valve inline-four (136 PS) and the supercharged 1.8-liter eight-valve inline-four (marketed as the G60, delivering 160 PS). The G60 had a bit of a turbocharged shimmy to its step.

2. **The VR6 Era**:
- Now, let's talk about the VR6. Imagine the Corrado putting on its jazz shoes and hitting the dance floor. The VR6 models—oh, they had moves!
- The VR6 engine (2.8 liters initially, later upgraded to 2.9 liters) brought more power and torque to the party. It was like the Corrado suddenly learned the tango and the salsa simultaneously.
- Suspension components from the A3 model range were borrowed for the VR6, giving it a wider front wheel track. New front wings, wider wheel arches, and a raised-style bonnet accommodated this powerhouse.

3. **The Dance Floor Stats**:
- The Corrado had flush-mounted windows (because nobody likes awkward window gaps at a dance), and an active rear spoiler that popped up when the car hit 100 km/h (62 mph). It was like the car saying, "Watch me strut my stuff!"
- Fun fact: The name "Corrado" was derived from the Spanish verb "correr," which means to run or sprint. Prototypes were initially called "Taifun" (German for "Typhoon"), but they decided to switch names before the grand ball.

4. **The Final Bow**:
- Over its seven-year production run, approximately 97,521 Corrados graced the dance floor. About 50,000 of them spun their wheels in the United States.
- Sadly, the music stopped in 1995, and the Corrado took its final bow. But its legacy lives on—a stylish, quirky partner in the automotive dance hall.

And there you have it! The Corrado—a car that didn't just drive; it danced. If you ever find one, consider taking it for a spin. Who knows? You might discover a hidden paso doble move in the gearbox!
*****
Variants
Ah, the Volkswagen Corrado—a car that danced its way into the hearts of enthusiasts like a tango partner with a secret moonwalk move.

1. **Corrado 1.8 16V (KR)**:
- The Corrado debuted with a 1.8-liter 16-valve inline-four engine, affectionately known as the "KR." It waltzed onto the scene with 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp). Picture it: the Corrado doing a graceful spin, showing off its rev-happy nature.

2. **Corrado G60**:
- Now, let's talk about the supercharged sensation—the Corrado G60. Imagine it as the coupe version of a rock star. This 1.8-liter eight-valve inline-four delivered 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp) and had a supercharger whine that could make your heart skip a beat. It was like the Corrado saying, "I've got the moves!"

3. **Corrado 2.0 16V**:
- A few years into the dance, the Corrado invited the 2.0-liter 16-valve inline-four to join. This version had more top-end power, perfect for those spirited highway stretches. It was like the Corrado saying, "Let's hit the autobahn and show 'em what we've got!"

4. **Corrado VR6**:
- Ah, the VR6—the Corrado's grand finale. Imagine the coupe taking a deep breath and launching into a powerful routine. The 2.8-liter VR6 engine (later upgraded to 2.9 liters) brought a superb spread of power. It was like the Corrado saying, "Watch me balance performance and refinement!"
- Suspension components from the A3 model range were borrowed for the VR6, giving it a wider front wheel track. New front wings, wider wheel arches, and a raised-style bonnet accommodated this powerhouse.

5. **North American Special: Corrado 2.8**:
- Across the pond, the Corrado did a special jig—the 2.8-liter variant. It was sold exclusively in North America. Imagine it doing a little tap dance on Route 66.

6. **Convertible Dreams (Unrealized)**:
- Now, here's a twist: If Volkswagen were to launch a Corrado today, they'd probably have an SUV version, a Corrado R with 360 hp (because every dance needs a turbo boost), a sleek coupe (maybe even five-door), and an Allspace with a longer wheelbase. But alas, these are dreams—like a convertible Corrado that never quite made it to the dance floor.
*****
Engines
Let's pop the hood of the Volkswagen Corrado and take a peek at its heart—the engines that powered this charismatic coupe.

1. **1.8-Liter 16-Valve Inline-Four (KR)**:
- The Corrado made its debut with this eager little engine. Picture it doing a quick cha-cha—136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) worth of power. Not electrifying, but definitely peppy. It was like the Corrado saying, "Let's hit the road, but not break any speed records."

2. **Supercharged G60**:
- Ah, the G60—the Corrado's turbocharged dance partner. Imagine it doing a twirl, supercharger belt whining like a jazz saxophone. This 1.8-liter eight-valve inline-four delivered 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp). It was the life of the party, making you tingle just a bit.

3. **2.0-Liter Variants**:
- The Corrado also invited the 2.0-liter engine to join the soirée. It came in two flavors:
- **8-Valve (114 PS)**: A bit like a smooth waltz—enough power to keep things moving gracefully.
- **16-Valve (134 PS)**: This one had a bit more pep, like a tango with a twist. It could shimmy the Corrado up to 130 mph (209 km/h).

4. **The VR6 Grand Finale**:
- And then, the spotlight shifted to the VR6—a 2.8-liter (later upgraded to 2.9 liters) powerhouse. Imagine the Corrado doing a dramatic spin. The VR6 brought a superb spread of power, like a symphony hitting all the right notes.
- Suspension components from the A3 model range joined the dance, giving the Corrado VR6 a wider front wheel track. New front wings, wider wheel arches, and a raised-style bonnet accommodated this engine upgrade.

5. **Convertible Dreams (Unrealized)**:
- Now, here's a twist: If Volkswagen were to launch a Corrado today, they'd probably have an SUV version, a Corrado R with 360 hp (because every dance needs a turbo boost), a sleek coupe (maybe even five-door), and an Allspace with a longer wheelbase. But alas, these are dreams—like a convertible Corrado that never quite made it to the dance floor.
*****
Spares
When it comes to keeping your Volkswagen Corrado VR6 in top shape, sourcing quality spares is essential. Let's explore some options for finding those elusive Corrado parts in the UK and Ireland:

1. **Stevens VW Spares**:
- Located in Chelmsford, England, Stevens VW Spares is a treasure trove for VW enthusiasts. They specialize in dismantled and pre-dismantled VW spares, offering prices up to 70% off main dealer rates. Whether you need a tiny clip or a complete rear panel, they've got you covered².
- **Address**: Drakes Lane Industrial Estate, Drakes Lane, Boreham, Nr, Chelmsford CM3 3BE
- **Opening Hours**: Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 17:00
- **Phone**: 01245 362020

2. **Belfast Partsplus**:
- If you're in Northern Ireland, check out Belfast Partsplus. While they primarily deal with genuine Ford, Motorcraft, and Omnicraft parts, it's worth exploring their offerings for your Corrado as well.
- **Address**: Unit C, Knockmore Industrial Estate, Moira Rd, Lisburn BT28 2EJ, Lisburn
- **Opening Hours**: Monday to Saturday, 08:00 - 17:30 (with a shorter day on Saturdays)
- **Phone**: 028 9693 1950

3. **Heritage Parts Centre**:
- For a wide range of VW Corrado parts, Heritage Parts Centre is an excellent online resource. They offer genuine parts, high-quality reproductions, and aftermarket options. Their extensive catalog includes exploded diagrams and photographs to help you identify the exact parts you need. Plus, they have over 25,000 parts in stock, including engines, body panels, exhausts, and more.
- **Online Store**: [Heritage Parts Centre - VW Corrado](https://www.heritagepartscentre.com/uk/volkswagen/corrado.html)

4. **AutopartsPro**:
- AutopartsPro is another online platform where you can find original car spares for your Volkswagen Corrado. They offer competitive prices and a convenient shopping experience.
- **Website**: [AutopartsPro - VW Corrado](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/vw-corrado-carparts)

bottom of page