Opel Corsa A (1982-1993) – batteries


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):

LayoutTerminal typesBase hold-down
0 – positive on the right side1B13

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

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S3
S30 01
41 Ah
360 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S4
S40 01
44 Ah
440 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 01
52 Ah
520 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Exide Classic
EC412
41 Ah
370 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB442
44 Ah
420 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA472
47 Ah
450 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Essentials
HB 063
41 Ah
360 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 063
45 Ah
440 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS063
50 Ah
500 A
210x175x175 mmMore
Varta Black Dynamic
A17
41 Ah
360 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
B18
44 Ah
440 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
C6
52 Ah
520 A
207x175x175 mmMore
For the 1.0, 1.2, 1.2 i petrol engines and others from the above list, we select batteries measuring 207x175x175 mm or 210x175x175 mm with a capacity exceeding 38 Ah. The weakest of these is the battery Varta Black Dynamic A17 which capacity is 41 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 360 A. The most powerful battery is Bosch S5 S50 01 of a capacity 52Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 520 A. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

Opel Corsa A – diesel engines:
  • 1.5 D
  • 1.5 TD

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S3
S30 04
53 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S4
S40 04
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 04
61 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Exide Classic
EC542
54 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB602
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA612
61 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Essentials
HB 075
56 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 075
60 Ah
550 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP075
60 Ah
540 A
243x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS075
62 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Varta Black Dynamic
C11
53 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
D59
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
D21
61 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
For the Opel Corsa A with 1.5 D or 1.5 TD diesel engines, we recommend batteries sized 242x175x175 mm or 243x175x175 mm, with a minimum capacity of 51 Ah. The most basic battery of this set is Varta Black Dynamic C11 of a capacity 53Ah and 500A Cold Cranking Amps, the battery with the biggest capacity is Lucas Supreme LS075 of a capacity 62 Ah, having 600A Cold Cranking Amps. All the batteries in the list above have a base hold-down B13.
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!

See also information about other cars of this manufacturer

Opel Adam (2013-) battery
Opel Agila A (2000-2007) battery
Opel Agila B (2008-2014) battery
Opel Antara (2006-2015) battery
Opel Astra F (1991-2002) battery
Opel Astra G (1998-2009) battery
Opel Astra H (2004-) battery
Opel Astra J (Astra 4) (2009-2015) battery
Opel Astra K (Astra 5) (2015-2021) battery
Opel Cascada (2013-) battery
Opel Combo B (1994-2001) battery
Opel Combo C (2001-2011) battery
Opel Combo D (2011-) battery
Opel Corsa B (1993-2000) battery
Opel Corsa C (2000-2006) battery
Opel Corsa D (2006-2014) battery
Opel Corsa E (2014-2019) battery
Opel Frontera A (1991-1998) battery
Opel Frontera B (1998-2003) battery
Opel Insignia A (2008-2017) battery
Opel Meriva B (2010-) battery
Opel Meriva Mk1 (A) (2003-2010) battery
Opel Mokka (2012-) battery
Opel Movano A (1998-2010) battery
Opel Movano B (2010-) battery
Opel Omega B (1994-2003) battery
Opel Signum (2003-2008) battery
Opel Sintra (1996-1999) battery
Opel Tigra Twin Top (2004-2009) battery
Opel Vectra B (1995-2002) battery
Opel Vectra C (2000-2008) battery
Opel Vivaro I (2001-2014) battery
Opel Zafira A (1999-2005) battery
Opel Zafira B (2005-2014) battery
Opel Zafira C (2011-) battery


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