Difference between revisions of "Chevrolet Corsica"

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{{refimprove|date=July 2008}}
{{Infobox Automobile
{{Infobox Automobile
| name          = Chevrolet Bel Air
|image=[[Image:94Corsica.jpg|250px|1994 Chevrolet Corsica]]
| image         = [[Image:Chevrolet Bel Air 2-Door.jpg|250px|Chevrolet Bel Air from Universal
|name=Chevrolet Corsica
 
|manufacturer=[[General Motors]]
Studios Orlando]]
|aka=[[Pontiac Tempest]]
| manufacturer  = [[Chevrolet]]
|production=1987–1996
| parent_company = [[General Motors]]
|predecessor=[[Chevrolet Citation]]
| production    = 1953-1975 (U.S.)<br>1953-1981 (Canada)
|successor=[[Chevrolet Malibu]]
| class          = [[Full-size]]
|class=[[Mid-size]]
| layout        = [[FR layout]]
|body_style=4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<br>5-door [[hatchback]]
|layout=[[FF layout]]
|assembly=[[Wilmington, Delaware]]<br>[[Linden, New Jersey]]
|platform=[[GM L platform|L-body]]
|related=[[Chevrolet Beretta]]
|wheelbase= {{Auto in|103.4|0}}
|length= {{Auto in|183.4|0}} (1987-93)<br>{{Auto in|183.5|0}} (1994-96)
|width= {{Auto in|68.2|0}} (1987-93)<br>{{Auto in|68.5|0}} (1994-96)
|height= {{Auto in|53.8|0}} (1987-93)<Br>{{Auto in|54.2|0}} (1994-96)
|fuel_capacity={{Convert|15.6|usgal|L impgal|1}}
|engine=2.0 L ''[[GM OHV engine|OHV]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]]<br>2.2 L ''[[GM OHV engine|OHV]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]]<br>2.8 L ''[[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#LB6|LB6]]'' [[V6]]<br>3.1 L ''[[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#Generation II|Gen II]]'' [[V6]]<br>3.1 L ''[[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#Generation III|Gen III]]'' [[V6]]
|transmission=5-speed [[manual transmission|manual]]<br>3-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]]<br>4-speed automatic
}}
}}


The '''Chevrolet Bel Air''' is an automobile series produced by the [[Chevrolet]] division of [[General Motors]] from 1953–75. From 1950–52, hardtops in Chevrolet's premium [[Chevrolet Deluxe|Deluxe]] model range were designated with the Bel Air name, but it was not a distinct series of its own. The Bel Air continued in production in [[Canada]] through the 1981 model year.
The '''[[Chevrolet]] Corsica''' is a [[front-wheel drive]] mid-sized [[automobile]] that was produced by [[General Motors]] from 1987 to 1996. The Corsica was built upon the [[GM L platform|L-body]] platform which was developed (along with the [[GM N platform|N-body]]). It shared the L-body with the 2-door [[Chevrolet Beretta|Beretta]], and the [[badge engineering|rebadged]] revival of the [[Pontiac Tempest]] which was essentially the same car sold in [[Canada]].  The Corsica came in two styles and four trims. Sold initially only as a 4-door sedan, it was also available as a 5-door hatchback from 1989 to 1991. Corsicas were built alongside the Beretta in both [[Wilmington, Delaware]] and [[Linden, New Jersey]].
==Year-to-year changes==
===1987-1989===
The Corsica was first sold as fleet cars to rental agencies and to large companies in 1987, prior to mainstream release.  The Corsica and [[Chevrolet Beretta|Beretta]] were the second best-selling cars in [[United States|America]] in 1988.  The base Corsica's door handles were colored silver, while the Corsica LT/LTZ had black-colored handles. One feature that was particularly odd was that some earlier models had a column shifter with a handbrake between the front seats. This configuration was very unusual for this class of sedan. The hatchback was introduced for 1989, as was an LTZ performance package that included many suspension parts from the Beretta. The XT trim was an even more rare and little remembered offering on certain years, which included all the performance parts from the LTZ trim as well as a leather interior and a special body kit and spoiler package designed for GM by a third party supplier.


==History==
===1990===
===1953–1957===
The base Corsica was dropped leaving the LT and LTZ. Both engines offered were increased in displacement.* Minor changes were made to the interior, mostly around the driver controls.
{{Infobox Automobile generation
| name          = First generation
| image          = [[Image:1956-chevy-bel-air-chevrolet-archives.jpg|250px|1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Hardtop]]
| production    = 1953-1957
| engine        = {{Auto CID|265}} [[V8]]<Br>{{Auto CID|283}} [[V8]]
| body_style    = 2-door [[hardtop]]<br>4-door hardtop [[Sedan (car)|sedan]]<br>2-door [[station wagon]]<br>4-door station wagon<br>2-door [[convertible]]
}}
[[Image:Chevrolet Bel Air 500px.jpg|thumb|left|1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-door coupe]]
[[Image:'56 Chevrolet Bel Air Sedan.JPG|thumb|left|1956 Chevrolet Bel Air sedan]]
[[Image:1957-chevy-bel-air-chevrolet-archives.jpg|thumb|left|1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible]]
[[Image:1956-chevy-bel-air-interior-chevrolet-archives.jpg|thumb|1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Interior]]


In 1953 Chevrolet renamed its series and the Bel Air name was applied to the premium model range. Two lower series, the [[Chevrolet 150|150]] and [[Chevrolet 210|210]], also emerged.
===1991===
Hatchback body style was dropped after 1991 model. The Corsica received an extensively updated interior with a standard driver's side [[airbag]] and cup holders.  Front seatbelts were moved from the doors to the B-pillars. The taillights were redesigned.


The 1953 Chevrolet was advertised as "Entirely New Through and Through," due to the restyled body panels, front and rear ends.  However, essentially these Chevys had the same frame and mechanicals as the 1949-52 cars.  The Bel Air series featured a wide chrome strip of molding from the rear fender bulge, to the rear bumper.  The inside of this stripe was painted a coordinating color with the outside body color, and "Bel Air" scripts were added inside the strip.  Lesser models had no model designation anywhere on the car, only having a Chevy crest on the hood and trunk.  Bel Air interiors for 1953 had a massive expanse of chrome across the lower part of the dashboard, along with a de luxe Bel Air steering wheel with full chrome horn ring.  Carpeting and full wheel covers rounded out Bel Air standard equipment.  For '54, the Bel Air stayed essentially the same, except for a revised grille and taillights.  During these years, there were two engine choices, depending on the transmission ordered.  Both engines were "Blue Flame" [[Straight-6|inline six]] cylinder [[OHV]] engines. featuring hydraulic valve lifters and aluminum pistons.  The {{convert|115|hp|abbr=on}} engine was standard on [[stickshift]] models, with solid lifters and splash plus pressure lubrication.  [[Powerglide]] cars got a {{convert|125|hp|abbr=on}} version which had hydraulic lifters and full pressure lubrication.  '54 cars with stick shift got the 1953 Powerglide engine.  During 1953-54, Bel Airs could be ordered in convertible, hardtop coupe, 2- and 4-door sedans, and, for 1954, the [[Chevy Beauville|Beauville]] station wagon which featured woodgrain trim around the side windows.  Power steering was optional for 1953; 1954 added power brakes, power seat positioner and power front windows.
===1992===
The only trim level was the LT.


In 1955, Chevrolets gained a [[V8 engine]] option.  The new 265 cubic-inch V8 featured a modern, overhead valve high-compression, short stroke design that was so good that it remained in production in various forms, for many decades.  The base V8 had a two-barrel carburetor and was rated at {{convert|162|hp}}, and the "Power Pack" option featured a four-barrel carburetor and other upgrades, yielding {{convert|180|bhp}}. Later in the year, a "Super Power Pack" option added high compression and a further {{convert|15|bhp}}. Most enthusiasts today associate the Bel Air and the V8 together, even though neither was dependent on the other.  That year, Chevrolet's full-size model received new styling that earned it the "Hot One" designation by enthusiasts. Unlike Ford and Plymouth, Chevrolet's styling was considered crisp and clean. Bel Airs came with features found on cars in the lower models ranges plus interior carpet, chrome headliner bands on hardtops, chrome spears on front fenders, chrome window moldings, and full wheel covers. Models were further distinguished by the Bel Air name script in gold lettering.
===1994===
The LT model took the place of the base model once again.  


Engine displacement grew to {{convert|283|cuin|cc|0}} in 1957, with the "Super Turbo Fire V8" option producing {{convert|283|hp}} with the help of continuous [[fuel injection]]. These so-called "fuelie" cars are quite rare, since most Bel Airs were fitted with carburetion.
The 3.1 liter [[V6]] with the OBD-I was replaced with the updated ''[[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#Generation III|Gen III]]'' "3100-series" [[Internal combustion engine|engine]] (Option code [[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#L82|L82]]) and an updated OBD system. This new OBD system was not compatible with either OBD-I or OBD-II but included features found in both systems.  


The '55, '56, and especially '57 Bel Airs are among the most recognizable American cars of all time; well-maintained examples (especially Sport Coupes and [[convertible]]s) are highly sought after by enthusiasts. Roomy, fuel-efficient, and with tastefully restrained use of tail fins and chrome, they are seen by many as vastly superior to the oversized and overdecorated full-size models that would roll out of [[Detroit]] for the next 20 years.  The '55, '56, and '57 Chevrolets are commonly referred to as TriFives.
The 3 speed automatic transmission was replaced with a 4 speed electronically controlled [[automatic transmission]]. Front seat belts were moved from the B-pillars to the doors.


From 1955–57, production of the two-door [[Chevrolet Nomad|Nomad]] [[station wagon]] was assigned to the Bel Air series, although its body and trim were unique to that model. Prior to becoming a regular production model, the Nomad first appeared as a [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvette]]-based concept vehicle in 1954. Chevrolet has since unveiled two concept cars bearing the Nomad name, most recently in 1999.  1956 saw the introduction of the pillarless four-door model, called [[Sedan (car)|Sport Sedan]] and available in both Bel Air and Two-Ten models.
===1995===
The Corsica became the first American car to be equipped with [[daytime running light]]s as standard. Also a new Corsica logo was introduced along with other minor cosmetic exterior changes, such as the introduction of a body-colored grille and side moldings.


===1958: Impala, Bel Air, Biscayne, and Delray===
===1996===
{{Infobox Automobile generation
The Corsica was converted fully to OBD-II.
| name          = Second generation
| image          = [[Image:1958-chevy-bel-air-chevrolet-archives.jpg|250px|1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Sedan]]
| production    = 1958-1965
| transmission  = 4-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]<br>power glide 2-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]<br>
3-speed manual
| engine        = {{Auto CID|235}} [[I6]]<br>{{Auto CID|296}} [[I6]]<br>{{Auto CID|268}} v8 283  V8 327 [[V8]] <br>{{Auto CID|409}} [[V8]]
| body_style    = 4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<br>2-door [[coupe]]<br>2-door [[convertible]]<br>2-door [[pickup truck]]<br>4-door [[station wagon]]
| assembly      = [[Arlington, Texas]], [[United States]]<Br>[[Oshawa, Ontario]], [[Canada]]
}}
For 1958, Chevrolet models were redesigned to be broader, longer and heavier than their 1957 predecessors. The new Impala was a special premium model available as a [[convertible]] or closecoupled hardtop [[coupe]].  Except for the Impalas, Bel Air was the top trim line in 1958.  The Bel Air 2-door hardtop used a different body than the Impala, with a more [[Sedan (car)|sedan]]-like shape than the Impala.  For the budget conscious, the [[Chevrolet Biscayne|Biscayne]], (formerly the 210) and the [[Chevrolet Delray|Delray]] (formerly the 150) completed this model year's family-oriented and utility offerings.


Chevrolet's design for the year fared better than its other GM brethren, and lacked the overabundance of chrome found on Pontiacs, Oldsmobiles, Buicks and Cadillacs. Complementing Chevrolet's front design was a broad grille and quad headlights; the tail received a fan-shaped alcove on both side panels, which housed dual tail lights.
GM discontinued the Corsica and the [[Chevrolet Beretta]] after the 1996 model year. The Corsica was replaced by the [[Chevrolet Malibu]] in 1997.


The Bel Air also gained a [[halo vehicle|halo model]] in 1958, the [[Chevrolet Impala|Impala]], available only as a hardtop coupe and convertible in its introductory year. Impala styling followed the basic lines of the other Chevrolet models but received special styling cues including a different roof line, a vent above the rear window, unique side trim, and triple tail lights housed in slightly broader alcoves.
==Engines==
* 1987-1989 2.8&nbsp;L (173&nbsp;in³) ''[[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#LB6|LB6]]'' [[V6]]
* 1987-1989 2.0&nbsp;L (122&nbsp;in³) ''[[GM OHV engine|OHV]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]]
* 1990-1996 2.2&nbsp;L (134&nbsp;in³) ''[[GM OHV engine|OHV]]'' [[Straight-4|I4]]
* 1990-1993 3.1&nbsp;L (189&nbsp;in³) ''[[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#Generation II|Gen II]]'' [[V6]]
* 1994-1996 3.1&nbsp;L (189&nbsp;in³) ''[[GM 60-Degree V6 engine#Generation III|Gen III]]'' [[V6]]


Despite being a recession year, consumers made Chevrolet the No. 1 make of automobile (beating Ford, which held the title in 1957) and the Bel Air was at the core of Chevrolet's popularity. With its wide variety of body styles and models, Bel Airs could be optioned with almost every conceivable luxury within the Chevrolet line. The Nomad station wagon name also reappeared in 1958 when the vehicle bowed as the premium four-door Chevrolet [[station wagon]], lacking the unique styling of the 1955-57 Nomads. Most Chevrolet [[station wagon]] models had two tail lights housed in abbreviated alcoves, which were made smaller to accommodate the rear gate.
Notes:
*Both the 2.8 L [[V6]] and 2.0 L [[Straight-4|I4]] received a longer stroke [[crankshaft]] in the 1990 model year, respectively increasing their displacements to 3.1 L and 2.2 L.
*In the 1994 model year, sequential fuel injection replaced throttle-body injection on the I4 and MPFI on the V6 models.  The updated OBD system is sometimes referred to as OBD 1.5.


===1959–1965: Mid-range model===
==External links==
[[Image:'64 Chevrolet Bel Air Sedan (Rigaud).jpg|thumb|left|1964 Chevrolet Bel-Air sedan]]
[[Image:1961 Chevrolet Bel Air.jpg|thumb|1961 Chevrolet Bel Air 4-door sedan]]
From 1960, Bel Airs and Biscaynes could easily be identified by their use of two taillights per side; the Impalas had three taillights per side. Also, the Bel Air had more interior and exterior brightwork than the Biscayne. Many of the same options and accessories that were available on the Impala were also available on the Bel Air.


Of noteworthy importance is the 1962 Bel Air Sport Coupe, the last year a Bel Air hardtop was offered in the USA.  This model featured the "bubbletop" roof from '61, and was popular with drag racers, who ordered this car with Chevy's new-for-'61 409 cubic inch "W-block" [[V8]] with up to {{convert|409|bhp|abbr=on}}, a special package including aluminum body panels, heater delete, and four-speed manual transmission. A car with this configuration today is a valuable collector vehicle that commands a big premium over other '62 Chevys, including the classy Impala SS. Some of the other options included the 235cid (L6) rated at 110 and {{convert|135|hp}} and {{convert|217|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on}} torque. A smaller v8 engine, the 283, rated at {{convert|170|hp|abbr=on}} and {{convert|275|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on}} torque. The next engine up was the 327 turbo fire rated at up to {{convert|300|hp|abbr=on}} and {{convert|360|ft.lbf|N.m|abbr=on}} or torque
* [http://www.corsicas.com Corsicas.com A site featuring photos, information, and discussion boards for the Chevrolet Corsica.]
* [http://auto.consumerguide.com/auto/used/reviews/full/index.cfm/id/2125/ Consumer Guide: 1990-1996 Chevrolet Corsica Consumer Guide Used Car review of the Chevrolet Corsica]
*[http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/byclass/Midsize_Cars1990.shtml Gas Mileage of 1990 Midsize Cars]
* [http://wikicars.org/en/Chevrolet_Corsica ''Chevrolet Corsica''] article at [http://wikicars.org/en/  Wikicars.org]


{{clear}}
{{Chevrolet}}


===1966–1975: Low-line model===
[[Category:Chevrolet vehicles|Corsica]]
{{Infobox Automobile generation
[[Category:Compact cars]]
| name          = Third generation
[[Category:Front wheel drive vehicles]]
| production    = 1966-1970
[[Category:Hatchbacks]]
| image          = [[Image:1966 Chevrolet Bel Air Station Wagon.jpg|250px|1966 Chevrolet Bel Air Station Wagon]]
| body_style    = 4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<br>4-door [[station wagon]]<Br>2-door [[coupe]]
| platform      = [[GM B platform|B-body]]
| related        = [[Chevrolet Impala]]<br>
[[Buick LeSabre]]<br>
[[Pontiac Parisienne]]<br>
[[Pontiac Catalina|Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian]]<br>
[[Pontiac Bonneville]]<br>
[[Chevrolet Caprice]]
| transmission  = 3-speed manual
| assembly      = [[Arlington, Texas]], [[United States]]<Br>[[Oshawa, Ontario]], [[Canada]]
}}
[[Image:1972 Chevy Bel Air 001.jpg|thumb|left|1972 Chevrolet Bel Air 4-door Sedan, as seen from the rear.]]
[[Image:1972 Chevy Bel Air 002.jpg|thumb|left|The front end of a 1972 Chevrolet Bel Air 4-door Sedan.]]
 
{{Infobox Automobile generation
| name          = Fourth generation
| production    = 1971-1975 (U.S.); 1971-1976 (Canada)
| image          = [[Image:1972 Chevy Bel Air 001.jpg|250px|1972 Chevy Bel Air 4 Door Sedan.jpg]]
| body_style    = 4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<br>4-door [[station wagon]]<Br>2-door [[coupe]]
| platform      = [[GM B platform|B-body]]
| related        = [[Chevrolet Impala]]<br>
[[Buick LeSabre]]<br>
[[Pontiac Parisienne]]<br>
[[Pontiac Catalina|Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian]]<br>
[[Pontiac Bonneville]]<br>
[[Chevrolet Caprice]]
| assembly      = [[Arlington, Texas]], [[United States]]<Br>[[Oshawa, Ontario]], [[Canada]]
| transmission  = 3-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]] (standard, 1971-1973 on all six-cylinder cars), [[Turbo-Hydramatic]] (optional 1971-1973 on six-cylinder cars; standard on V-8 powered cars from mid-1971 onwards)
| engine        = {{Auto CID|350}} [[V8]]<br>{{Auto CID|400}} 2bbl [[V8]]<br>{{Auto CID|400}} 4bbl [[v8]]<br>{{Auto CID|454}} [[V8]]}}
 
By the late 1960s (with the introduction of the [[Chevrolet Caprice|Caprice]]), the Bel Air and its Biscayne stablemate were primarily marketed to automotive fleet customers. However, the Bel Air remained available to private customers who sought a basic, no-frills full-sized car that was slightly better trimmed than the low-line Biscayne. When the Biscayne was discontinued after 1972, the Bel Air was demoted to the low-level model.
 
A 250 cubic-inch six-cylinder engine and three-speed [[manual transmission]] with column shift remained standard equipment through the 1973 model year on sedans with the 350 V8 and automatic standard on wagons - the Turbo Hydramatic [[automatic transmission|automatic]] had been the sole transmission choice on V-8-powered Bel Airs since the spring of 1971 though the old two-speed Powerglide was still offered with the six-cylinder engine through the 1972 model year. Only about 1,400 cars were built with the inline six in 1973, and that engine and with manual transmission were shelved by the end of the model year - marking the last full-sized American car to offer a manual gearbox.
 
All Bel Air sedans built in 1974 and 1975 listed a 350 two-barrel [[V8 engine]] and Turbo-Hydramatic transmission as standard, with station wagons getting the 400 four-barrel V8, again with Turbo-Hydramatic standard. The 400 V8 was optional on sedans and the 454 was available on both models.
 
With the discontinuation of the Bel Air two-door sedan after the 1969 model year, all U.S.-market Bel Airs sold between 1970 and 1975 were four-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]s or [[station wagon]]s - the latter carrying the Townsman nameplate from 1969 to 1972 and Bel Air from 1973 to 1975. However, a Bel Air hardtop coupe - based on the Impala sport coupe body - was sold in Canada from 1970 to 1975. This body even had a roofline similar to the original '66-67 Caprice coupe style for the years 1974 and 1975.
 
Most other changes to the Bel Air during its final years were identical to the more expensive Caprice and Impala lines. For instance, the 1975 models had a new roofline and came with new dashboard, radio and climate control graphics (the speedometer read up to {{convert|100|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}, and had smaller numbers for kilometers per hour). In addition, customers could buy their 1975 Bel Air with two new options: an Econominder gauge package (which included a gauge that monitored fuel economy, due in part to growing demands for fuel economy) and intermittent wipers.
 
In 1975, [[Consumer Reports]] tested a Bel Air four-door sedan with the 350 V8 and Turbo Hydramatic against other U.S.-built full-sized cars of that period including the Pontiac Catalina, Ford LTD and Plymouth Gran Fury. Consumer Reports concluded in its report that prospective buyers should pay the extra $200 or so to upgrade to the costlier Impala noting advantages such as greater resale value and interior/exterior appointments more comparable to the other tested full-sized vehicles.
 
The last Bel Airs for the United States were manufactured for 1975. For 1976, a lower-trimmed Impala "S" four-door sedan was a one-year offering which had a bit less standard equipment than regular Impalas and could be considered a partial replacement for the Bel Air.
 
{{clear}}
 
===1976–1981: Bel Airs in Canada===
{{Infobox Automobile generation
| name          = Fifth generation
| production    = 1977-1981
| wheelbase      = {{convert|116|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| body_style    = 2-door [[coupe]]<br>4-door [[sedan (car)|sedan]]<br>4-door [[station wagon]]
| platform      = [[GM B platform|B-body]]
| assembly      = [[Oshawa, Ontario]], [[Canada]]
| transmission  = [[Turbo-Hydramatic]]
| related        = [[Chevrolet Caprice]]<br>[[Chevrolet Impala]]<br>[[Pontiac Safari]]<br>[[Pontiac Bonneville]]<br>[[Pontiac Parisienne]]<br>[[Pontiac Catalina|Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian]]<br>[[Oldsmobile 88]]<br>[[Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser]]<br>[[Buick LeSabre]]<br>[[Buick Estate]]<br>[[Cadillac Fleetwood]]<br>[[Cadillac Brougham]]
}}
Chevrolet's Canadian affiliate continued the Bel Air as its lowest-priced full-size car through the 1981 model year, and was [[Chevrolet]]'s [[Badge engineering|badge engineered]] version of the [[Pontiac Laurentian]] with minimal exterior and interior trim.
 
Bel Airs received the same downsizing as their Impala/Caprice counterparts in Canada and the U.S. for 1977. Bodystyles offered during this period included four-door sedans, two-door coupes and station wagons. Reflecting the smaller size of these downsized big cars was a lineup of generally smaller engines for improved fuel economy with Chevy's 250 cubic-inch "Turbo-Thrift" six-cylinder reinstated as standard power in sedans for the first time since 1973 with the {{convert|140|hp}} 305 Turbo-Fire V8 available as an option in sedans and standard on wagons. The {{convert|170|hp}}  350 Turbo-Fire V8, available in both models, was now the top option as the larger 400 Turbo-Fire small block and 454 Turbo-Jet big block V8s were no longer available. Standard equipment on Bel Airs during this period included small hubcaps, cloth-and-vinyl upholstery in sedans or all-vinyl in wagons, cigarette lighter, ashtray, automatic dome light for front doors, full carpeting, Astro Ventilation, Delco Freedom battery, variable-ratio power steering, power front disc brakes and Turbo Hydramatic transmission.
 
For 1980 the engine lineup was revised with the inline six replaced by a new 3.8-liter or 229 cubic-inch V6 based on the small-block V8 as the base engine in sedans. The new base V8 (standard on wagons, optional on sedans) was a smaller 267 cubic-inch small-block with two-barrel carburetor, while the 305 small-block (optional on all models) got a {{convert|15|hp}} increase to {{convert|155|hp}} thanks to the change from a two-barrel to four-barrel carburetor. The 350 V8 was now restricted to police-option vehicles. Another new option for 1980-81 was the Oldsmobile-built 350 Diesel V8.
 
==2002 Bel Air show car==
{{Infobox Automobile generation
| name          = Concept generation
| production    = 2002
| wheelbase      = {{convert|116|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}
| body_style    = 2-door [[convertible]]
| platform      = [[GM B platform|B-body]]
| assembly      = [[Detroit, Michigan]]
| transmission  = [[Turbo-Hydramatic]]
| related        =
|}}
[[Image:2002 bel air.jpg|thumb|250px|right|2002 Bel Air concept car (GM press kit photo)]]In 2002, a [[concept car|concept]] Bel Air convertible was shown at the North American International Auto Show. It featured many styling and design cues from the legendary 1955–57 models, and had tail lights very similar to the [[Ford Thunderbird]]. So far, General Motors has shown no interest in producing such a car.
 
=="Tri-fives" in popular culture==
Chevrolet "tri-fives" have been featured prominently in several films. These include [[Dr. No]] (1962), [[American Graffiti]] (1973), [[Two-Lane Blacktop]] (1971), [[Thunder and Lightning]] (1977) and [[A Perfect World]] (1993). In the Danish "[[Olsen Banden]]" (The Olsen Gang, 1968-1998) film series, in 13 out of 14 movies, the gang drives an extremely worn and rusty Bel-Air.
 
Alternative-country group [[Old 97's]] have a song called "Bel Air", found on their album [[Wreck Your Life]].
 
<gallery>
Image:1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible.jpg|Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible 1955
Image:1955 Chevrolet Bel Air XEP833.jpg|Chevrolet Bel Air 1955
Image:Chevrolet_Bel_Air_1956_4door_Sedan_front.jpg|1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 4door Sedan
Image:Chevrolet_Bel_Air_1956_4door_Sedan_lamp.jpg|Bel Air headlamp
Image:Chevrolet_Bel_Air_1956_4door_Sedan_rear.jpg|1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 4 door rear view
Image:1956 Chevrolet Bel Air 4-Door Sedan.jpg|Chevrolet Bel Air 4-Door Sedan 1956
Image:IMG 3560.JPG|1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 2-door hard top
Image:Chevrolet_Bel_Air_1957_4door_Sedan_front.jpg|1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 4 door Sedan
Image:Chevrolet_Bel_Air_1957_4door_Sedan_light.jpg|Bel Air 57 Headlamp
Image:Chevrolet_Bel_Air_1957_4door_Sedan_rear.jpg|1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 4 door rear view
Image:Chevrolet_Bel_Air_1957_4door_Sedan_head.jpg|1957 Head on
Image:1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible PBY298.jpg|1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible
Image:1957 Chevrolet Bel Air XDH552.jpg|1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
Image:1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 2413 4-Door ERL936.jpg|1957 Chevrolet Bel Air 2413 4-Door
Image:ChevroletBelAir.JPG|1956 Chevrolet Bel Air (police car)
Image:1958 Chevrolet Bel Air.jpg|1958 Chevrolet Bel Air
</gallery>
 
==References==
{{Commonscat}}
* {{cite book | author = Gunnell, John, Editor | title = The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1946-1975 | publisher = Kraus Publications | year = 1987 | isbn = 0-87341-096-3}}
* {{Harvard reference | Surname=Biel | Given=John | Authorlink=John Biel| Title=A Glass Half Full: The Story of the 1958 Chevrolet | Journal=Collectible Automobile| Volume=21 | Issue=6 | Year=2005| Pages=8-23 | URL=http://auto.consumerguide.com/product/collectible/index.cfm }}.
 
{{Early Chevrolet cars}}
 
[[Category:Chevrolet vehicles|Bel Air]]
[[Category:Chevrolet concept vehicles|Bel Air]]
[[Category:Vehicles introduced in 1953]]
[[Category:Rear wheel drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Sedans]]
[[Category:Sedans]]
[[Category:1950s automobiles]]
[[Category:1960s automobiles]]
[[Category:1970s automobiles]]
[[Category:1980s automobiles]]
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Latest revision as of 18:41, 3 February 2009

Chevrolet Corsica
1994 Chevrolet Corsica
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
Also calledPontiac Tempest
Production1987–1996
AssemblyWilmington, Delaware
Linden, New Jersey
PredecessorChevrolet Citation
SuccessorChevrolet Malibu
ClassMid-size
Body style(s)4-door sedan
5-door hatchback
LayoutFF layout
PlatformL-body
Engine(s)2.0 L OHV I4
2.2 L OHV I4
2.8 L LB6 V6
3.1 L Gen II V6
3.1 L Gen III V6
Transmission(s)5-speed manual
3-speed automatic
4-speed automatic
Wheelbase103.4 in (2626 mm)
Length183.4 in (4658 mm) (1987-93)
183.5 in (4661 mm) (1994-96)
Width68.2 in (1732 mm) (1987-93)
68.5 in (1740 mm) (1994-96)
Height53.8 in (1367 mm) (1987-93)
54.2 in (1377 mm) (1994-96)
Fuel capacity15.6 US gallons (59.1 L; 13.0 imp gal)
RelatedChevrolet Beretta
ManualsService Manual

The Chevrolet Corsica is a front-wheel drive mid-sized automobile that was produced by General Motors from 1987 to 1996. The Corsica was built upon the L-body platform which was developed (along with the N-body). It shared the L-body with the 2-door Beretta, and the rebadged revival of the Pontiac Tempest which was essentially the same car sold in Canada. The Corsica came in two styles and four trims. Sold initially only as a 4-door sedan, it was also available as a 5-door hatchback from 1989 to 1991. Corsicas were built alongside the Beretta in both Wilmington, Delaware and Linden, New Jersey.

Year-to-year changes

1987-1989

The Corsica was first sold as fleet cars to rental agencies and to large companies in 1987, prior to mainstream release. The Corsica and Beretta were the second best-selling cars in America in 1988. The base Corsica's door handles were colored silver, while the Corsica LT/LTZ had black-colored handles. One feature that was particularly odd was that some earlier models had a column shifter with a handbrake between the front seats. This configuration was very unusual for this class of sedan. The hatchback was introduced for 1989, as was an LTZ performance package that included many suspension parts from the Beretta. The XT trim was an even more rare and little remembered offering on certain years, which included all the performance parts from the LTZ trim as well as a leather interior and a special body kit and spoiler package designed for GM by a third party supplier.

1990

The base Corsica was dropped leaving the LT and LTZ. Both engines offered were increased in displacement.* Minor changes were made to the interior, mostly around the driver controls.

1991

Hatchback body style was dropped after 1991 model. The Corsica received an extensively updated interior with a standard driver's side airbag and cup holders. Front seatbelts were moved from the doors to the B-pillars. The taillights were redesigned.

1992

The only trim level was the LT.

1994

The LT model took the place of the base model once again.

The 3.1 liter V6 with the OBD-I was replaced with the updated Gen III "3100-series" engine (Option code L82) and an updated OBD system. This new OBD system was not compatible with either OBD-I or OBD-II but included features found in both systems.

The 3 speed automatic transmission was replaced with a 4 speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. Front seat belts were moved from the B-pillars to the doors.

1995

The Corsica became the first American car to be equipped with daytime running lights as standard. Also a new Corsica logo was introduced along with other minor cosmetic exterior changes, such as the introduction of a body-colored grille and side moldings.

1996

The Corsica was converted fully to OBD-II.

GM discontinued the Corsica and the Chevrolet Beretta after the 1996 model year. The Corsica was replaced by the Chevrolet Malibu in 1997.

Engines

  • 1987-1989 2.8 L (173 in³) LB6 V6
  • 1987-1989 2.0 L (122 in³) OHV I4
  • 1990-1996 2.2 L (134 in³) OHV I4
  • 1990-1993 3.1 L (189 in³) Gen II V6
  • 1994-1996 3.1 L (189 in³) Gen III V6

Notes:

  • Both the 2.8 L V6 and 2.0 L I4 received a longer stroke crankshaft in the 1990 model year, respectively increasing their displacements to 3.1 L and 2.2 L.
  • In the 1994 model year, sequential fuel injection replaced throttle-body injection on the I4 and MPFI on the V6 models. The updated OBD system is sometimes referred to as OBD 1.5.

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