2005 OPEL Astra 3 Doors (GTC) OPC 2.0L 16V Turbo 6MT (240 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Opel introduced its contender in the hot-hatch segment with a highly tuned Astra GTC in 2005 and brought more than just a set of wheels and a body kit.

The German carmaker was highly respected in the hot-hatch segment during the mid-’80s, thanks to the Kadett GSI. Still, over time it lost its edge in front of Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST, or the Renault Megane Renault Sport, to name just a few. So in 2005, GM decided to return with a highly tuned version for the Astra GTC, adding the Opel Performance Center (OPC) badge to the nameplate.

Unlike its main competitors, which were more or less just the three-door versions of the five-door hatchbacks, the Astra GTC featured a different bodywork than its siblings. At the front, it sported a wide mesh grille flanked on the sides by scoops with fog lights. From its sides, the 18″ light-alloy wheels made a clear difference compared to the rest of the range. The carmaker installed a center-mounted exhaust at the back, under the bumper, and a roof spoiler on top of the tailgate to complete the sporty image.

The sports treatment continued inside with OPC’s blue accents on the dashboard, the door cards, and the Recaro front sports seats. In addition, the same three letters were added on the steering wheel and inside the tachometer. To further enhance the car’s sporty look, Opel added a set of aluminum pedals.

But the most important part of the car was the drivetrain. It was the most powerful turbocharged two-liters in its class. Moreover, Opel offered an adaptive suspension, which stiffened the dampers and made the car handle even better on a race track. Finally, a close-ratio six-speed manual sent the power to the front wheels.