Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Adam |
| Generation | Adam |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 ECOFLEX (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.2 l/100 km (56-57.4 US mpg, 67.3-68.9 UK mpg, 23.8-24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.0-5.1 l/100 km (46.1-47 US mpg, 55.4-56.5 UK mpg, 19.6-20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118-119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp, 93.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 4000 rpm (95.88 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A14XER |
| 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 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| 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 |
The Opel Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX (100 hp) debuted in 2012 as part of the first generation Adam (A) series, built on the General Motors Gamma II platform. This platform was also used for other small Opel/Vauxhall models like the Corsa. The Adam was conceived as a premium small car, offering a high degree of personalization and a focus on style. The 1.4 ECOFLEX variant was specifically engineered to deliver improved fuel economy and lower emissions, making it an attractive option for urban drivers and those seeking reduced running costs. It occupied a middle ground in the Adam range, offering more performance than the base 1.2-liter engine but remaining more affordable than the higher-powered 1.4 Turbo models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX is the A14XER engine, a 1.4-liter (1398 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a naturally aspirated configuration. The A14XER is part of Opel’s Family 0 engine family, known for its relatively simple design and durability. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The ECOFLEX designation indicates specific modifications aimed at improving efficiency, including optimized engine mapping and reduced friction components. The 100 hp version produced 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although an automatic transmission was also available, albeit less common. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive.
Driving Characteristics
The Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX, with its 100 hp output, offered adequate performance for city driving and shorter journeys. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 115 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine provided sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers on open roads. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo models, the ECOFLEX version felt noticeably less responsive, particularly at higher engine speeds. The five-speed manual transmission was generally smooth and precise, but the gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy over outright acceleration. The automatic transmission, when equipped, further emphasized fuel efficiency but at the expense of responsiveness. The car’s relatively light weight (around 1065 kg) helped to mitigate the effects of the modest power output.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control (ESC), and front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a range of color options available. The Adam was particularly known for its extensive customization options, allowing buyers to personalize the exterior and interior with a variety of colors, trims, and decals.
Chassis & Braking
The Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for urban environments. The torsion beam rear suspension was a cost-effective solution that helped to keep the car’s weight down. Braking was typically handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX was generally well-received by critics for its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power and that the interior, while well-designed, could feel somewhat cramped for taller occupants. Compared to other small cars in its class, such as the Fiat 500 and the Volkswagen up!, the Adam offered a more premium feel and a wider range of customization options. The 1.4 ECOFLEX variant offered better fuel economy than the 1.4 Turbo models, but at the cost of performance. The 1.2-liter base engine was even more fuel-efficient but lacked the power of the 1.4. Reliability was generally good, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Opel Adam, including the 1.4 ECOFLEX variant, proved to be a popular choice in the European small car market. The A14XER engine is known for its relative reliability, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term durability. On the used car market, the Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX remains an affordable and practical option for buyers seeking a stylish and fuel-efficient city car. Its relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain. While it may not offer the performance of some of its rivals, its combination of style, efficiency, and affordability has ensured its continued appeal.
