Time can be surprisingly kind to some machines, and the Volkswagen Corrado is a testament to that. This particular model, despite its age and mileage, stands as a remarkably well-preserved example of a classic sports coupe. The bodywork remains pristine, untouched by rust, and the interior shows only minimal signs of wear, a true feat for a vehicle that has journeyed as far as this one. The supple leather seats, still in excellent condition, speak volumes about the care and attention this Corrado has received over the years. Clocking in at 319,000 kilometers, or roughly 200,000 miles, this Volkswagen Corrado has truly stood the test of time.
According to Remy, the current owner, there’s a possibility that some areas of the car have been repainted, but importantly, it boasts a clean title, adding to its appeal and legitimacy. Being the sought-after G60 variant, it’s almost a given that the engine has undergone a complete rebuild, likely multiple times throughout its lifespan. Currently, the engine has accumulated 80,000 kilometers (50,000 miles) since its last rebuild. Subtle cosmetic modifications hint at the car’s journey through the Fast and the Furious and Super Street influenced era of car culture. Fortunately, these additions, including the “deep dish” XXR wheels, Momo shifter, and door sill plates, are largely aesthetic and don’t detract from the overall character of the Volkswagen Corrado.
This Volkswagen Corrado’s stance is aggressively low, a result of a Weitec Ultra GT aftermarket suspension kit – a modification common among enthusiasts of the era. Complementing the suspension is an aftermarket Brullen catback exhaust system. For a sports compact hailing from the vibrant 1990s, these modifications feel perfectly in sync with the car’s spirit.
Out on the road, the Volkswagen Corrado continues to impress with its surprising solidity and cohesive feel. While some cabin rattles and vibrations are present, they are easily forgiven considering the car has navigated Québec roads for over a quarter of a century. The scent of oil and gasoline is noticeable, yet it becomes part of the overall sensory experience. The connection to the road is immediate and raw; every nuance of the surface, from the smallest bump to a minor crack, is communicated directly through the front wheels. The handling and braking capabilities remain remarkably sharp and responsive, reinforcing its sports car pedigree.
Driving through the late spring cornfields of Québec’s Richelieu region, the experience is punctuated by the engaging, albeit quirky, shifter. Finding the correct gear sometimes becomes a momentary challenge – BRRRAAA – BOP – BRAAA – adding to the car’s analog charm. Catching sight of the iconic yellow rear wing rising in the rearview mirror evokes a sense of nostalgia and excitement, even if there’s a slight hesitation to push the car to its absolute limits, a subconscious concern that something might give way.
This drive in the Volkswagen Corrado becomes a vivid flashback to teenage years spent immersed in Sport Compact Car magazine and countless hours tuning virtual cars in Gran Turismo. It’s a genuine reliving of the golden age of sports compact cars, a truly exhilarating and immersive experience. Or perhaps, the heightened senses are simply a side effect of the evocative fumes, further enhancing the intoxicating blend of nostalgia and driving pleasure that only a classic Volkswagen Corrado can deliver.
