Opel Tigra B (2004-2009): How to Remove the Bumpers

Opel Tigra B - A Compact Coupe-Cabriolet That Made Its Mark

The Opel Tigra B is a compact coupe-cabriolet that left its mark on automotive history in the early 2000s. Despite its modest dimensions, this model stood out with its stylish design, unique construction, and sporty character. Let's explore what it was called in different countries, what made it memorable, and some interesting facts about it.

What Was the Tigra B Called in Other Countries?

The Opel Tigra B was the second generation of the Tigra model, produced from 2004 to 2009. In Europe, it kept its name, but in some countries it was known differently:

  • UK: Vauxhall Tigra (like all Opel models on the British market)

  • Mexico: Chevrolet Tigra (since Opel wasn't represented there)

  • Australia and New Zealand: Holden Tigra (similar to other European Opel models rebranded as Holden)

Interestingly, the first-generation Tigra (1994-2001) was also sold as the Chevrolet Tigra in Latin America, while in Japan it was distributed through Chevrolet dealers. The Tigra B never made it to Japan - likely due to declining demand for small coupes at the time.

Bumper Material: Polyurethane, Marked >PU-MD17<

How to Remove the Front Bumper

  1. Open and secure the hood

  2. Remove three screws under the hood that secure the top of the bumper (fastened top to bottom)

  3. Remove five clips on the underside of the bumper (inserted bottom to top)

  4. In the wheel arches, remove one screw per side that secures the fender liners to the brackets

  5. Release the latches in the fenders

  6. Two-person job: Pull the bumper forward to remove, disconnecting electronic component connectors first

Opel Tigra B front bumper mounting locations

Opel Tigra B front bumper mounting diagram

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

⇒Useful tips on how to remove the bumper and not break anything.⇐

  1. Open the trunk

  2. From inside the trunk, remove two nuts per side and take off the taillights

  3. Remove two screws and two clips securing the top of the rear bumper

  4. Remove four screws (or clips depending on version) securing the bottom (fastened bottom to top)

  5. Remove one screw per side in the rear wheel arches

  6. With assistance: Slide the bumper backward off the guide rails in the fenders

  7. Disconnect electrical component connectors

Opel Tigra B rear bumper mounting locations

Opel Tigra B rear bumper mounting diagram

Design and Construction: Coupe and Cabriolet in One

The Tigra B's standout feature was its folding hardtop that transformed the urban coupe into a convertible in 18 seconds. This body style was called a "coupe-cabriolet" (or CC). When folded, the roof neatly stowed under a plastic cover in the trunk without taking up much space.

The design was developed in collaboration with Italian studio Bertone, evident in the car's flowing lines, sleek silhouette, and aggressive headlight design. The OPC version (Opel Performance Center) looked particularly sporty with 17-inch wheels, sport suspension, and more aggressive body kit.

Technical Features: More Than Just Looks

Under the hood:

  • 1.4L (90 HP): Economical base version

  • 1.8L (125 HP): Most popular engine (0-100 km/h in 9.5 seconds)

  • 1.3 CDTI Diesel (70/90 HP): Rare but efficient (up to 4.5 L/100 km)

Available with 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic (though the automatic hampered performance).

Despite front-wheel drive, the Tigra B handled well thanks to its short wheelbase and rigid body. Interior space was tight though - rear seats were only suitable for children or short trips.

Interesting Tigra B Facts

  • Almost Related to Corsa: Based on GM's SCCS platform shared with Opel Corsa C, but with reinforced structure

  • Rare OPC Version: With 1.8L engine (150 HP), 0-100 km/h in 8.1 seconds - now a collector's item

  • Movie Appearances: Featured in European productions like German crime series "Koburg 09"

  • Unexpected Competitor: Positioned against more expensive convertibles like Peugeot 206 CC or Renault Mégane CC

  • Electric Experiment: Opel showed a hybrid concept in 2007 that never reached production

  • End of an Era: Production ended in 2009 - Opel never returned to this vehicle class

Conclusion: Why the Tigra B Is Remembered

It wasn't a sales hit but left positive memories. As one of the last affordable European cabriolets with a metal hardtop, it's now a sought-after collector's item.

On the used market, Tigra Bs can be found at reasonable prices, though the roof mechanism needs careful inspection. A well-maintained example offers a lively, stylish, and unusual driving experience.

The Opel Tigra B proved that even a small car could have character. Pity they don't make cars like this anymore.