The Opel Adam 1.4 (87 hp) Easytronic, produced from 2012 to 2018, was a key variant within the first generation of the Opel Adam (A14) subcompact hatchback. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, it aimed to provide a balance of affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use, particularly appealing to urban drivers. The Adam, as a whole, represented Opel’s attempt to capture a younger demographic with a highly customizable and stylish small car, competing with models like the Fiat 500 and Volkswagen up!. The Easytronic transmission, a five-speed automated manual, distinguished this version from the standard manual gearbox options and higher-performance trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Adam |
| Generation | Adam |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (87 Hp) Easytronic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6-6.5 l/100 km (35.6 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.0 l/100 km (57.4 – 58.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-4.9 l/100 km (47 – 48 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 118-115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 87 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 4000 rpm (95.88 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A14XEL |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1065 kg (2347.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415 kg (914.92 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 38 l (10.04 US gal | 8.36 UK gal) |
| Length | 3698 mm (145.59 in.) |
| Width | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2311 mm (90.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Rear track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.17-11.06 m (33.37 – 36.29 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission Easytronic |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16; 215/45 R17; 225/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Opel Adam 1.4 Easytronic utilized the A14XEL engine, a 1.4-liter (1398 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was part of Opel’s Family 0 small engine family. It featured multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The A14XEL produced 87 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency and smooth operation over outright performance. The Easytronic transmission was a five-speed automated manual gearbox. It operated like a traditional manual transmission but shifted gears automatically using actuators controlled by the vehicle’s computer. It lacked a traditional torque converter found in conventional automatic transmissions, contributing to improved fuel economy but sometimes resulting in less smooth shifts compared to a traditional automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter engine paired with the Easytronic transmission delivered modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 13.2 seconds, and the top speed was around 110.6 mph. The Easytronic transmission, while offering convenience, wasn’t known for its speed or smoothness. Shifts could be somewhat jerky, particularly at lower speeds. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo variants or even the diesel options, the 1.4 Easytronic felt noticeably slower. However, it provided adequate power for city driving and shorter trips. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, meaning the engine often operated at higher rpm during acceleration. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, but the car wasn’t particularly sporty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Adam 1.4 Easytronic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and Opel’s IntelliLink infotainment system with a touchscreen display. The Adam was heavily marketed on its customization options, allowing buyers to choose from a wide range of exterior colors, interior trims, and styling packs to personalize their vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Opel Adam featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for urban environments. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were typically drum brakes on the base models, with disc brakes available on higher trims. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, offering light and precise steering feel. The relatively lightweight construction of the Adam contributed to its nimble handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Adam 1.4 Easytronic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its stylish design, customization options, and fuel efficiency. However, the Easytronic transmission was often criticized for its slow and jerky shifts. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the Easytronic offered less driver engagement. The 1.4 Turbo variants provided significantly more performance, while the diesel models offered superior fuel economy. The Adam competed primarily with the Fiat 500, Volkswagen up!, and Peugeot 108. The Adam offered a more spacious interior and a wider range of customization options than some of its rivals.
Legacy
The Opel Adam, including the 1.4 Easytronic variant, proved to be a relatively reliable vehicle. The A14XEL engine is generally considered durable, and the Easytronic transmission, while not without its quirks, is not prone to major failures. However, like any automated manual transmission, it may require more frequent servicing than a traditional automatic. On the used car market, the Adam 1.4 Easytronic remains an affordable and stylish option for those seeking a small, fuel-efficient city car. Its customization options and relatively low running costs continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers. While not a performance standout, it represents a practical and well-equipped entry point into the Opel Adam range.
