Opel Tigra: a young coupe that defined the style of the 90s
In 1994, Opel released the Tigra, a compact coupe that embodied the dynamic and youthful spirit of the 90s. Built on the Opel Corsa B platform, the Tigra stood out for its attractive design and sporty performance, attracting primarily a young audience who enjoy dynamic driving.
The Tigra’s design, developed by the Opel design center under the direction of Japanese engineer Hideo Kodama, was distinguished by smooth lines and an aerodynamic silhouette. With a length of 3.92 meters, a width of 1.60 meters and a height of 1.34 meters, the Tigra had a compact yet aggressive appearance, emphasized by a large panoramic rear window and teardrop-shaped headlights.
The engine lineup included two gasoline engines from the Ecotec family: a 1.4-liter with 90 hp and a 1.6-liter with 106 hp. With a light weight of 980 kg and 1,075 kg, respectively, the Tigra guaranteed high performance, with a top speed exceeding 200 km/h (124 mph) when equipped with a more powerful engine. A taut suspension, low center of gravity, and 185/55R15 tires contributed to agile and engaging driving while maintaining a sporty appearance.
Produced at the Opel plant in Zaragoza, Spain, the Tigra was an immediate success: more than 250,000 units were produced between 1994 and 1995. Its popularity was due not only to its distinctive design and performance, but also to its affordable running costs, making it particularly appealing to young people and women.
A curious aspect of the Tigra concerns an advertising campaign from the time, in which the car, driven by young swimming champion Franziska van Almsick, symbolically dipped into water to avoid a traffic jam and then emerged above the traffic. This commercial emphasized the agility and freshness of the model, reinforcing its youthful and dynamic image.
Today, the Opel Tigra is considered a young car, sought after by classic car enthusiasts and tuning enthusiasts. The combination of sporty aesthetics, compact dimensions, and impressive performance continues to captivate, making it a timeless classic in the automotive world.
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