Selecting the right battery for the Opel Corsa A, produced between 1982 and 1993, is an important step in keeping this classic hatchback in reliable running condition. Known for its simple construction and fuel efficiency, the Corsa A featured a range of petrol and diesel engines, all without Start-Stop systems. This means that a standard lead-acid battery is more than adequate for its needs, provided it matches the vehicle’s specifications. One crucial point to consider for all variants is the reduced battery height requirement of 175 mm. Choosing a battery with a taller case may result in fitting issues or contact with the hood, which can lead to dangerous short circuits.
Petrol versions of the Corsa A, including the popular 1.0, 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4 engines, all require a battery with a capacity between 41 and 52 Ah and a cold cranking current (CCA) ranging from 360 to 520 A. These engines are small and easy to start, so they don’t demand excessive power, but the battery must still be able to perform well during cold starts and occasional periods of inactivity. Suitable examples for these petrol models include Bosch S40 01, Exide EA472, Halfords HB 063, Lucas LS063, Varta A17, and Varta B18. These batteries are known for their compact size, dependable starting power, and compatibility with the reduced-height design needed for this generation of Corsa.
Even the more powerful petrol versions, like the 1.6 GSI and 1.6 GSI CAT, fall within the same battery specification range. Their increased performance doesn’t require a significantly larger battery, thanks to the relatively simple electronics of the time. This keeps battery replacement affordable and uncomplicated, which is helpful for classic car enthusiasts looking to maintain their Corsa in original condition. It’s worth noting that many of these cars are now collector’s items in some regions, and using a correct-fit battery helps preserve both functionality and authenticity.
Diesel variants such as the 1.5 D and 1.5 TD require a bit more power. These models call for batteries with capacities between 53 and 62 Ah and a CCA rating between 500 and 600 A. Diesel engines are naturally harder to start due to their higher compression ratios, and a strong battery is necessary to ensure dependable ignition, especially during winter. Example batteries that meet these requirements include Bosch S50 04, Exide EA612, Halfords HCB 075, Lucas LP075, and Varta D21. These batteries still conform to the reduced height requirement and are designed to provide robust performance under higher load conditions.
The Corsa A’s simplicity is both its charm and its advantage. There are no complex electronics, no power-hungry infotainment systems, and no Start-Stop systems to drain the battery in city traffic. However, because many of these vehicles are now used less frequently or stored as project cars, it’s wise to select a battery with good standby discharge characteristics. Periodic maintenance charging or the use of a battery maintainer can help preserve battery life and performance over the long term.
In summary, the Opel Corsa A 1982–1993 requires compact, low-height lead-acid batteries tailored to small displacement petrol or diesel engines. Most petrol models use 41–52 Ah batteries, while diesel variants require slightly larger units in the 53–62 Ah range. By selecting proven models like those from Bosch, Exide, Varta, Lucas, or Halfords, owners can ensure reliable starting and safe operation. Whether maintaining a daily driver or preserving a piece of 1980s automotive history, the right battery is essential to keeping the spirit of the original Corsa alive on the road.
Opel Corsa in version A was produced in the years 1982 – 1993. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Opel Corsa (1982-1993):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
Opel Corsa A – petrol engines:
- 1.0
- 1.2
- 1.2 i
- 1.2 N
- 1.2 S
- 1.3
- 1.3 i
- 1.3 S
- 1.4 i
- 1.4 S
- 1.4 Si
- 1.6 GSI
- 1.6 GSI CAT
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 01 | 41 Ah 360 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 01 | 44 Ah 440 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 01 | 52 Ah 520 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC412 | 41 Ah 370 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB442 | 44 Ah 420 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA472 | 47 Ah 450 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Essentials HB 063 | 41 Ah 360 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 063 | 45 Ah 440 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS063 | 50 Ah 500 A | 210x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic A17 | 41 Ah 360 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic B18 | 44 Ah 440 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic C6 | 52 Ah 520 A | 207x175x175 mm | More |
Opel Corsa A – diesel engines:
- 1.5 D
- 1.5 TD
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 04 | 53 Ah 500 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 04 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 04 | 61 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC542 | 54 Ah 500 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB602 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA612 | 61 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Essentials HB 075 | 56 Ah 500 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 075 | 60 Ah 550 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP075 | 60 Ah 540 A | 243x175x175 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS075 | 62 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic C11 | 53 Ah 500 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D59 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D21 | 61 Ah 600 A | 242x175x175 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Opel Corsa , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!