Yes, the new Astra OPC Extreme is destined to be the fastest street-legal Astra ever, though sadly it won’t be showing up on this side of the Atlantic given the fact the Astra isn’t sold here anymore.
The regular Astra OPC is already no slouch, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine delivering a healthy 280 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This new Astra OPC Extreme is said to weigh 220 pounds less and have more than 300 horsepower on tap.
The engine, the most powerful four-cylinder ever offered by Opel, is mated to a slick, six-speed manual gearbox transmitting power to the front wheels via a limited-slip differential. Development of the drivetrain as well as the aero components took place at the Nürburgring and was run alongside development of the Astra OPC Cup race car.
The car’s weight savings have been brought about mostly by incorporating lightweight carbon fiber for many elements. It can be found on the aerodynamically-optimized rear wing, the diffuser, front spoiler, hood, suspension cross-bracing, engine cover, rear wheelhouse ventilation and the roof. The roof, for example, now weighs 5.7 pounds versus the 20 pounds of the regular Astra OPC’s steel roof. Even the wheels are made out of carbon fiber, saving 44 pounds in total.
Opel has also given the Astra OPC Extreme powerful brakes to match its potent powertrain. Brembo six-piston calipers biting 14.5-inch discs are used up front while slightly smaller discs and four-piston calipers feature in the rear. The carbon wheels measure 19 inches in diameter and are shod with 245/35 rubber. As for the chassis, the spring and damper settings are all fully adjustable, just like in a real rear car.
In the cabin, the rear seats of the regular Astra OPC have been replaced by a safety roll bar. Recaro bucket seats are fitted in the front and come with six-point safety belts from Schroth. Gray-colored suede is used for the trim and is contrasted by yellow stitching.
For more from the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, click here.
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