The 1990 Volkswagen Corrado is a sporty compact coupe that debuted in 1988 and ran through 1995. Distinguished by its sleek, aerodynamic design and unique active rear spoiler, the Corrado was initially available in base, G60, and later the popular VR6 trims. Its popularity stems from its engaging driving dynamics, distinctive styling, and a touch of European flair, making it a cult classic among enthusiasts.
The Good
The 1990 Corrado offers sharp handling and a fun driving experience, appealing to driving enthusiasts. Its distinctive, timeless design turns heads, while the compact size contributes to decent efficiency. For practical buyers, it provides a unique alternative in its segment, offering a blend of sportiness and European refinement.
The Bad
Key weaknesses of the 1990 Corrado include potential electrical gremlins, particularly with older wiring and sensors. The complex supercharger system on G60 models can be costly to repair if not maintained. Rust can also be a concern, especially around the wheel arches and sills. Finding parts can be increasingly difficult.
1990 Volkswagen Corrado: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1990 Volkswagen Corrado primarily offered two engine choices:
- 1.8L Supercharged Inline-4 (G60): This was the hallmark engine for the early Corrado.
- Horsepower: Approximately 160 hp
- Torque: Around 166 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: Roughly 8.2 seconds
- Fuel Economy: Estimated at around 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway (highly dependent on driving style and condition).
- 2.8L VR6 Inline-6 (Introduced later, but the 1990 model year had the G60 as the primary option. VR6 became more prominent in later years, but some may have been produced for 1990 or early 1991 depending on market. For clarity, focusing on the G60 for the 1990 model): While the VR6 is iconic for the Corrado, the 1990 model year was predominantly G60 equipped. If a VR6 was offered in certain markets for 1990, specifications would be:
- Horsepower: Around 178 hp
- Torque: Approximately 183 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: Around 6.5 seconds
- Fuel Economy: Estimated at around 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway.
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable. The Corrado is a sporty coupe designed for passenger transport, not towing.
- Trim-Level Features (1990 Model Year - primarily G60):
- Base Model: Standard features typically included power windows, power mirrors, central locking, a tilt steering wheel, and a rear-wheel-drive bias limited-slip differential. It often came with a driver-focused interior and sport seats.
- G60: Building upon the base, the G60 often included upgraded suspension components, larger wheels, and sportier exterior styling cues. Features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) might have been optional or standard depending on the market. The G60 moniker refers to the G-Lader supercharger.
- Optional Features: Depending on market and trim, optional equipment could have included a sunroof, air conditioning, leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and fog lights.
1990 Volkswagen Corrado Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1990 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corrado |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1990 Volkswagen Corrado Have?
The 1990 Volkswagen Corrado, while a charismatic car, is known for a few recurring issues that owners should be aware of. A primary concern revolves around its electrical system. Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent problems with lights, gauges, power windows, and the central locking system. The infamous G-Lader supercharger used in the G60 models is a complex piece of engineering and can be a significant source of trouble if not meticulously maintained. These superchargers are prone to wear and can become noisy or fail entirely, leading to costly repairs.
Another common problem is related to cooling system components. The aging rubber hoses and seals can degrade, leading to leaks and potential overheating issues. The radiator and water pump are also common replacement items on higher mileage examples. For any Corrado, especially a 1990 model, rust is a significant concern. Check the wheel arches, rocker panels, sills, and around the sunroof for signs of corrosion. Water ingress can also occur through worn door seals or the sunroof mechanism, potentially damaging interior components or the electrical system.
While specific recalls for the 1990 model year are not extensively documented as major safety campaigns, general maintenance and addressing minor issues proactively are crucial for long-term reliability. The complexity of some systems, particularly the G60's supercharger and the Corrado's advanced (for its time) electronics, means that maintenance often requires specialized knowledge and parts that are becoming increasingly scarce. The VR6 models, introduced later in the Corrado's life cycle, tend to be mechanically more robust than the G60, though they still share some of the common electrical and rust concerns. Long-term reliability heavily depends on the car's history, the quality of previous maintenance, and the owner's commitment to ongoing care.
Another common problem is related to cooling system components. The aging rubber hoses and seals can degrade, leading to leaks and potential overheating issues. The radiator and water pump are also common replacement items on higher mileage examples. For any Corrado, especially a 1990 model, rust is a significant concern. Check the wheel arches, rocker panels, sills, and around the sunroof for signs of corrosion. Water ingress can also occur through worn door seals or the sunroof mechanism, potentially damaging interior components or the electrical system.
While specific recalls for the 1990 model year are not extensively documented as major safety campaigns, general maintenance and addressing minor issues proactively are crucial for long-term reliability. The complexity of some systems, particularly the G60's supercharger and the Corrado's advanced (for its time) electronics, means that maintenance often requires specialized knowledge and parts that are becoming increasingly scarce. The VR6 models, introduced later in the Corrado's life cycle, tend to be mechanically more robust than the G60, though they still share some of the common electrical and rust concerns. Long-term reliability heavily depends on the car's history, the quality of previous maintenance, and the owner's commitment to ongoing care.
How long will the 1990 Volkswagen Corrado last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance habits, a well-maintained 1990 Volkswagen Corrado can realistically achieve between 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or even more, though this is not common for many surviving examples. The car's long-term durability is heavily influenced by its maintenance history. Cars that have had regular oil changes, timely replacement of wear items, and proactive attention to the G-Lader supercharger (on G60 models) and electrical gremlins will fare much better.
Weaknesses that emerge over time include the aforementioned electrical issues, potential for cooling system failures, and rust. The interior components, while generally well-built, can show wear and tear. The unique active rear spoiler mechanism can also become a point of failure. Cars that have been driven regularly and maintained with quality parts are more likely to be durable. Neglected examples often succumb to major mechanical or structural issues, limiting their service life significantly.
Weaknesses that emerge over time include the aforementioned electrical issues, potential for cooling system failures, and rust. The interior components, while generally well-built, can show wear and tear. The unique active rear spoiler mechanism can also become a point of failure. Cars that have been driven regularly and maintained with quality parts are more likely to be durable. Neglected examples often succumb to major mechanical or structural issues, limiting their service life significantly.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1990 Volkswagen Corrado, while not a technological marvel by modern standards, offered a reasonable suite of features for its era, focusing on driver engagement and comfort. The built-in tech was largely centered around the driving experience. Entertainment systems typically consisted of a standard AM/FM radio with a cassette player, often with decent speaker placement for the time. Upgraded sound systems with more speakers and amplifiers were available as optional extras.
Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards. The most notable feature was the active rear spoiler, which automatically deployed at higher speeds to improve stability and downforce, retracting at lower speeds to reduce drag. Power steering was standard, and most models featured power windows and power mirrors. Central locking was also a common convenience feature.
Safety features included seatbelts, a collapsible steering column, and crumple zones. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional feature, particularly on higher trims or in specific markets, providing an important safety enhancement for braking control. Airbags were not standard on the 1990 model and were not widely offered for the Corrado.
Crash-test ratings for vehicles of this era are not always directly comparable to modern testing protocols and may not be readily available from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS for specific 1990 models. However, Volkswagen generally aimed for robust construction, and the Corrado was built with passenger safety in mind. Overall, the tech was functional rather than flashy, prioritizing a connected driving feel. Optional features focused on enhancing comfort and the driving experience, with ABS being the most significant safety option.
Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards. The most notable feature was the active rear spoiler, which automatically deployed at higher speeds to improve stability and downforce, retracting at lower speeds to reduce drag. Power steering was standard, and most models featured power windows and power mirrors. Central locking was also a common convenience feature.
Safety features included seatbelts, a collapsible steering column, and crumple zones. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional feature, particularly on higher trims or in specific markets, providing an important safety enhancement for braking control. Airbags were not standard on the 1990 model and were not widely offered for the Corrado.
Crash-test ratings for vehicles of this era are not always directly comparable to modern testing protocols and may not be readily available from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS for specific 1990 models. However, Volkswagen generally aimed for robust construction, and the Corrado was built with passenger safety in mind. Overall, the tech was functional rather than flashy, prioritizing a connected driving feel. Optional features focused on enhancing comfort and the driving experience, with ABS being the most significant safety option.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1990 Volkswagen Corrado Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1990 Volkswagen Corrado (G60) typically had an MSRP in the range of $20,000 to $25,000 USD, depending on trim and options. The later VR6 models were considerably more expensive, pushing towards the $30,000 mark. As with most cars, the Corrado experienced significant depreciation in its early years. However, over the last decade, prices have stabilized and even seen a modest increase for well-maintained examples, particularly the rarer VR6 models.
Current used market prices for a 1990 Corrado G60 can range widely from $3,000 for project cars needing extensive work to $10,000+ for pristine, low-mileage examples. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the condition of the body (rust is a major deterrent), the mechanical health of the engine and G-Lader (if applicable), the presence of original documentation, low mileage, and the overall originality of the car. The VR6 models consistently command higher prices due to their performance and rarity.
Current used market prices for a 1990 Corrado G60 can range widely from $3,000 for project cars needing extensive work to $10,000+ for pristine, low-mileage examples. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the condition of the body (rust is a major deterrent), the mechanical health of the engine and G-Lader (if applicable), the presence of original documentation, low mileage, and the overall originality of the car. The VR6 models consistently command higher prices due to their performance and rarity.
1990 Volkswagen Corrado Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1990 Volkswagen Corrado is generally considered moderately costly, rather than economical. Insurance premiums can vary but might be higher than for a typical commuter car due to its sporty nature and enthusiast following. Fuel costs are reasonable for the G60 engine, but the VR6 will consume more. Maintenance requires attention, with regular servicing being crucial. Repairs can be a significant expense, especially for specialized parts or issues related to the G-Lader supercharger, electrical systems, or rust remediation. Finding qualified mechanics who are familiar with these older Volkswagens can also add to the cost. Overall, it's a car that demands a commitment of time and money for long-term ownership.
1990 Volkswagen Corrado Fuel Efficiency
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1990 Volkswagen Corrado Insurance
Insurance for a 1990 Volkswagen Corrado is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1990 Volkswagen Corrado Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 1990 Volkswagen Corrado competed in a segment of sporty coupes and performance-oriented compacts. Key rivals included vehicles like the Toyota MR2, Honda Prelude, and potentially lower-trim versions of the Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro.
Performance: The Corrado G60, with its supercharged engine, offered a unique torque curve and decent acceleration for its time. It often felt more refined and European in its power delivery than American muscle cars. The later VR6 variant significantly boosted performance, outperforming many competitors in straight-line speed and providing a distinctively smooth, powerful engine note. The MR2 offered sharper handling and a mid-engine balance, while the Prelude provided a strong FWD performance package with good reliability.
Features: The Corrado stood out with its distinctive styling and active rear spoiler. Interior features were generally well-appointed for the era, with a focus on driver ergonomics. Rivals like the Prelude also offered a good array of features, often with more advanced technology for the time.
Reliability: This is where the Corrado often lagged behind its Japanese competitors. While the Honda Prelude and Toyota MR2 built reputations for bulletproof reliability and lower long-term running costs, the Corrado, especially the G60, was more prone to electrical issues and complex mechanical problems (G-Lader). This made it less appealing for buyers prioritizing trouble-free ownership.
Price: When new, the Corrado was generally priced competitively, often sitting between the more affordable Japanese rivals and the more expensive American performance cars. Used, it offers a more accessible entry into European sporty coupe ownership compared to some other contemporary models, though the cost of maintenance can negate initial savings.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Corrado G60, with its supercharged engine, offered a unique torque curve and decent acceleration for its time. It often felt more refined and European in its power delivery than American muscle cars. The later VR6 variant significantly boosted performance, outperforming many competitors in straight-line speed and providing a distinctively smooth, powerful engine note. The MR2 offered sharper handling and a mid-engine balance, while the Prelude provided a strong FWD performance package with good reliability.
Features: The Corrado stood out with its distinctive styling and active rear spoiler. Interior features were generally well-appointed for the era, with a focus on driver ergonomics. Rivals like the Prelude also offered a good array of features, often with more advanced technology for the time.
Reliability: This is where the Corrado often lagged behind its Japanese competitors. While the Honda Prelude and Toyota MR2 built reputations for bulletproof reliability and lower long-term running costs, the Corrado, especially the G60, was more prone to electrical issues and complex mechanical problems (G-Lader). This made it less appealing for buyers prioritizing trouble-free ownership.
Price: When new, the Corrado was generally priced competitively, often sitting between the more affordable Japanese rivals and the more expensive American performance cars. Used, it offers a more accessible entry into European sporty coupe ownership compared to some other contemporary models, though the cost of maintenance can negate initial savings.
Alternatives:
- Similar: A slightly later modelHonda Prelude (4th Gen) or a Toyota Celica GT-Four (if AWD is desired) offer comparable sporty coupe experiences with generally superior reliability and lower running costs. The Mazda MX-6 is another similar FWD coupe option.
- Better (Reliability/Value): For pure reliability and value, the Honda Prelude is often the go-to. For a more raw, affordable RWD experience, a later Mazda Miata (NA generation) might appeal, though it's a two-seater. For those seeking similar European flair but potentially better long-term reliability, a well-maintained BMW E30 3-Series coupe could be considered, though likely at a higher price point.
Final Verdict: Is the 1990 Volkswagen Corrado a Good Vehicle?
The 1990 Volkswagen Corrado is ideal for the automotive enthusiast who appreciates distinctive styling, engaging driving dynamics, and a touch of European character, and is willing to accept the potential for higher maintenance costs. It's not a car for the budget-conscious buyer seeking trouble-free daily transportation.
It is worth buying for those who value its cult status, unique design features like the active spoiler, and the rewarding driving experience it offers. However, buying one requires careful consideration. A well-documented, mechanically sound example, preferably a VR6 model for better performance and slightly improved reliability over the G60, is highly recommended. Buyers should be prepared for ongoing maintenance and potential repairs, especially concerning the G-Lader, electrical systems, and rust. For the right owner who can provide attentive care, the Corrado offers a unique and enjoyable ownership experience, but it is unequivocally a used car purchase, and the condition of the specific vehicle is paramount.
It is worth buying for those who value its cult status, unique design features like the active spoiler, and the rewarding driving experience it offers. However, buying one requires careful consideration. A well-documented, mechanically sound example, preferably a VR6 model for better performance and slightly improved reliability over the G60, is highly recommended. Buyers should be prepared for ongoing maintenance and potential repairs, especially concerning the G-Lader, electrical systems, and rust. For the right owner who can provide attentive care, the Corrado offers a unique and enjoyable ownership experience, but it is unequivocally a used car purchase, and the condition of the specific vehicle is paramount.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.