The Chevrolet Spark III 1.2 16V (81 hp) was a subcompact hatchback produced by General Motors from 2009 to 2013. Positioned as an entry-level vehicle, it represented Chevrolet’s attempt to offer an affordable and fuel-efficient option in the increasingly competitive small car segment, particularly in European and Asian markets. This variant, powered by the 1.2-liter engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, served as the base model for the Spark III range, offering a balance between cost and practicality. It was a rebadged version of the Daewoo Matiz, reflecting GM’s global platform sharing strategy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Spark |
| Generation | Spark III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 16V (81 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 81 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Torque | 111 Nm @ 4800 rpm (81.87 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B12D1 |
| Engine displacement | 1206 cm3 (73.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.7 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 939 kg (2070.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 421 kg (928.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 170 l (6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 3640 mm (143.31 in.) |
| Width | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Height | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2375 mm (93.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.9 m (32.48 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 155/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Chevrolet Spark III 1.2 16V utilized the B12D1 engine, a 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the ability to run on readily available fuel grades. The five-speed manual transmission was a standard offering, providing a fairly conventional gear ratio spread designed for urban driving and fuel economy. The transmission was a front-wheel drive configuration, typical for vehicles in this class.
Driving Characteristics
The 81 horsepower output and 111 Nm (81.87 lb-ft) of torque meant the Spark III 1.2 was not a performance-oriented vehicle. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 11.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to around 102 mph. The engine felt somewhat strained at higher speeds, and highway overtaking required careful planning. However, within city limits, the Spark III proved nimble and easy to maneuver. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, and the light clutch pedal made it relatively easy to drive in stop-and-go traffic. Compared to potential higher-trim versions (had they been offered in all markets), this variant prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base-level Spark III 1.2 16V typically came with a modest level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, front airbags, and an AM/FM radio. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were power windows and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically a basic cloth material. The dashboard layout was functional but lacked the sophistication of more expensive vehicles. Trim levels varied by market, but the 1.2L model generally represented the entry point to the Spark III range.
Chassis & Braking
The Spark III featured a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle (around 939 kg or 2070 lbs) helped to mitigate the limitations of the braking system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Chevrolet Spark III 1.2 16V was generally well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and maneuverability, but noted its lack of power and refinement. Compared to other small cars available at the time, such as the Fiat Panda or the Toyota Aygo, the Spark III offered a competitive price point but lacked the brand prestige of some of its rivals. Its fuel economy of around 46.1 US mpg combined was a significant selling point, particularly in regions with high fuel prices. Reliability was generally considered average for the segment.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Spark III 1.2 16V, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as a practical and affordable transportation option for many drivers. The B12D1 engine proved to be reasonably durable, and parts availability remains good in many markets. On the used car market, these Sparks are often sought after by first-time car buyers or those looking for a cheap and cheerful runabout. While not known for its performance or luxury, the Spark III 1.2 16V represents a significant chapter in Chevrolet’s history of offering accessible vehicles to a broad range of consumers.
