1988 Chevrolet Corsica

1988 Chevrolet Corsica sedan
The 1988 Corsica's powertrains were unrefined
compared to its Japanese competition's.

The 1988 Corsica arrived in Chevy showrooms in the spring of 1987 as an early 1988 model (a late-1986 launch put the initial batch of Corsicas into rental fleets).

That fall, when most 1988 models debuted, the Corsica received some minor updates, such as making an AM/FM stereo radio with digital clock standard, giving V-6 models larger stabilizer bars, and adding an upshift light to cars equipped with the V-6 and five-speed manual transmission.

Otherwise, the Corsica remained as before, with a standard 2.0-liter four making 90 horsepower and an optional 2.8-liter V-6 offering up 130 horses. Both came standard with a five-speed manual transmission, offering a three-speed automatic as an option.

Corsica shared its platform and powertrains with Chevy's two-door Beretta, but the two shared little sheetmetal. The same basic platform was also used for the Buick Skylark, Oldsmobile Achieva, and Pontiac Grand Am, but suspensions and powertrains differed from Chevrolet's versions, as did styling.

Base price by that time was $9,555, but a well-equipped Corsica with V-6, automatic, air, power windows and locks, and other amenities stickered for about $13,500 -- quite a bit less than Japanese rivals.

Sales for the 1988 model year totaled over 291,000, and though that "model year" lasted almost a year and a half, it was nonetheless an impressive debut showing.

The 1988 Corsica saw strong sales in its first model year.
The 1988 Corsica saw strong sales
in its first model year.

1988 Chevrolet Corsica Facts

Model

Weight range (lbs.)

Price range (new)

Number built
Corsica

2,589-2,688

$9,555-$10,215

291,163

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