But with the optional 130-h.p., 2.8-liter, multiport, fuel-injected V-6, Corsica comes alive. Performance like this used to be reserved for two-door coupes. No more.
A bit startling was the fact the standard 5-speed wasn`t typically GM temperamental. Good complement to the 2.8`s power. A 3-speed automatic is a $490 option.
Corsica comes in base, LT and top-of-the-line LTZ versions. We drove the LT, which comes with the F41 suspension package. It seemed to hold the road well on simple maneuvers such as lane changes, but in hard turns or wide sweeps, such as on a tollway ramp, the body seemed to want to linger a bit too long in the turn.
The LTZ offers an upgraded and stiffer FE3 sports suspenion, same as in the Beretta GT, with 15-inch Eagle GT all-season performance radial tires replacing the 14-inch all-season radials on the LT.
Good looks, ample room for the family, decent mileage and above average performance at a respectable $10,375 base price.
Standard features include power brakes and steering, AM-FM stereo with digital clock, all-season steel-belted radials, body-side moldings with accent stripe, dual sport mirrors, full wheel covers and side window defoggers.
The LT adds black grille, styled steel wheels, upgraded all-season steel- belted radials and the F41 suspension. All Corsicas have two-sided galvanized steel on most body panels, which makes rustproofing foolhardy unless you`re hell bent on financing college educations for the dealer`s kids. The test car added preferred option package No. 3, which included auxiliary lighting; carpeted floor mats; heavy duty battery; tinted glass; air conditioning; tilt wheel; speed control; gage package; intermittent wipers; power door locks, trunk opener and windows; and upgraded AM-FM stereo with cassette and digital clock. The $2,375 package is discounted by $1,300.
With a few popular options such as electric rear window defogger for $145 and the 2.8 V-6 for $660, the test car listed at $12,740 to which you add $425 for freight.
Good buy for the money that would be even better if some of the annoyances and flaws were corrected.
page 5 start of custom body kit
