The Opel Adam 1.4 (87 hp) was a subcompact hatchback produced from 2012 to 2018, representing Opel’s entry into the burgeoning city car segment. Positioned as a stylish and highly customizable alternative to rivals like the Fiat 500 and Volkswagen up!, the Adam aimed to attract a younger demographic with its vibrant color options and extensive personalization possibilities. This particular 1.4-liter variant, producing 87 horsepower, served as a core model within the Adam lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and acceptable performance for urban driving. It was primarily sold in European markets, where the demand for small, economical, and fashionable vehicles was strong.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Adam |
| Generation | Adam |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (87 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 125-124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 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 |
| 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 | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Opel Adam 1.4 (87 hp) was powered by the A14XEL engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belonged to Opel’s Family 0 small engine family, known for its compact design and relatively simple construction. The A14XEL featured a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. It utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine’s 87 horsepower output at 4000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at the same engine speed were considered adequate for city driving, but not particularly sporty. The Adam 1.4 was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although a six-speed automated manual transmission (Easytronic) was also available as an option. The Easytronic, while offering some convenience, was often criticized for its slow and jerky shifts compared to a traditional automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the Adam 1.4 was characterized by its light steering and nimble handling, making it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments. However, the 87 hp engine and relatively high curb weight of 1065 kg (2347.92 lbs) meant that acceleration was modest. The 0-60 mph time of around 11.9 seconds reflects this. Compared to the more powerful 1.0-liter turbocharged engine or the 1.4-liter turbocharged version, the naturally aspirated 1.4 felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or tackling uphill climbs. The five-speed manual transmission offered a reasonable spread of gears, but the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel economy than outright performance. The suspension provided a comfortable ride on smooth roads, but could feel a bit unsettled on rough surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Adam 1.4 typically came equipped with a decent level of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Glam’ and ‘Slam’, added features like alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, sport seats, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. A key selling point of the Adam was its extensive customization options. Buyers could choose from a wide range of exterior colors, roof colors, interior trims, and dashboard accents, allowing them to create a truly personalized vehicle. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a more advanced navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Opel Adam utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The torsion beam rear suspension was a cost-effective solution that helped to keep the weight down. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels in the base models. Higher trim levels often featured disc brakes all around. The Adam’s steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The relatively small size and light weight of the Adam contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Adam 1.4 received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its stylish design and customization options, it was often criticized for its relatively high price compared to other city cars and its modest performance with the 1.4-liter engine. Compared to the more economical 1.0-liter version, the 1.4 offered slightly more power but at the expense of fuel economy. The turbocharged 1.4-liter engine provided a significant performance boost, but came with a higher price tag. The Adam’s main competitors included the Fiat 500, Volkswagen up!, and Peugeot 108, all of which offered similar levels of style and customization.
Legacy
The Opel Adam, despite its relatively short production run, has gained a following among enthusiasts who appreciate its retro-inspired styling and customization potential. The A14XEL engine, while not known for its exceptional reliability, is generally considered to be a durable unit when properly maintained. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. On the used car market, the Adam 1.4 represents an affordable entry point into the subcompact hatchback segment. Its relatively simple mechanicals and readily available parts make it a relatively easy car to maintain. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
