The Opel Corsa D (Facelift, produced from 2011 to August 2014) 5-door 1.3 CDTI, equipped with a 75 horsepower diesel engine, represented an entry-level offering within the Corsa D range. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and economical option, it catered to buyers prioritizing practicality and low running costs over outright performance. This variant played a significant role in the European market, particularly in countries where diesel fuel was favored and smaller, economical cars were in high demand. It was built on the General Motors Gamma platform, shared with other small Opel/Vauxhall and Chevrolet models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa D (Facelift 2011) 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | August, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.1 kg/Hp, 66.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1750-2250 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A13DTC |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1135 kg (2502.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3999 mm (157.44 in.) |
| Width | 1737 mm (68.39 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2511 mm (98.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Corsa variant is the A13DTC 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a common rail direct injection (CDTI) unit, meaning fuel is delivered to the cylinders at very high pressure via a common rail system, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output and improve torque delivery. The intercooler cools the compressed air from the turbocharger, increasing its density and further enhancing performance. The engine’s valvetrain features two valves per cylinder (DOHC). The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel economy. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency rather than providing sporty acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 CDTI 75 hp engine, paired with the 5-speed manual transmission, delivered modest performance. Acceleration was not a strong point, with a 0-60 mph time around 13.8 seconds. However, the engine provided adequate torque at low to mid-range RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving and urban commutes. The gear ratios were relatively long, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration. Compared to higher-output Corsa D variants, such as those with the 1.7 CDTI engine, this version felt noticeably slower. However, it offered a smoother and more relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic. The engine was known for its relatively quiet operation for a diesel, and the turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power when needed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 CDTI 75 hp Corsa D typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, a driver’s airbag, and electric front windows. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD/radio system, and remote central locking. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Enjoy’ or ‘Cosmo’ offered additional features like climate control, upgraded interior trim, and parking sensors. The base trim was designed to be affordable and practical, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa D’s chassis featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were typically disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes on the base models, contributing to cost savings. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Corsa D 1.3 CDTI 75 hp was generally well-received as an economical and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other trims in the Corsa D lineup, such as the 1.4-liter petrol or the 1.7 CDTI diesel, this variant offered the lowest price point and the best fuel economy. However, it sacrificed performance and refinement. In terms of reliability, the A13DTC engine proved to be generally reliable, although issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) could occur, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short journeys.
Legacy
The Opel Corsa D 1.3 CDTI 75 hp remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. Its reputation for fuel efficiency and affordability continues to make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a low-cost, economical vehicle. The A13DTC engine, while not known for its power, is generally considered to be a durable and reliable unit. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Corsa D 1.3 CDTI represents a practical and sensible choice for those prioritizing economy and reliability over performance.
