The Opel Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX (87 hp) Easytronic is a subcompact hatchback produced by the German automaker Opel between 2012 and 2018. Positioned as a stylish and customizable city car, the Adam aimed to attract a younger demographic with its vibrant color options and extensive personalization possibilities. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.4-liter ECOFLEX engine and the Easytronic automated manual transmission, represented an entry-level to mid-range offering within the Adam lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance. It was primarily sold in European markets, where the subcompact segment is particularly popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Adam |
| Generation | Adam |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 ECOFLEX (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) | 6.2-6.1 l/100 km (37.9 – 38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0-3.8 l/100 km (58.8 – 61.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8-4.7 l/100 km (49 – 50 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 112-109 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 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic, launched in 2012, was a key component of Opel’s strategy to attract a younger audience with a fashionable and customizable small car. Built on the General Motors’ Gamma II platform (also underpinning the Chevrolet Trax/Sonic), the Adam aimed to compete with rivals like the Fiat 500 and Mini in the burgeoning retro-styled city car segment. The ECOFLEX designation indicated a focus on fuel efficiency, while the Easytronic transmission offered a degree of automation without the complexity (and cost) of a traditional automatic gearbox. This variant occupied a middle ground in the Adam range, offering a balance between affordability and usability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic lies the A14XEL engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is a member of Opel’s Family 0 engine family, known for its relatively simple design and durability. The A14XEL features multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine produces 87 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm. The Easytronic transmission is a five-speed automated manual gearbox. It’s essentially a conventional manual transmission with robotic actuators controlling the clutch and gear changes. Unlike a traditional automatic, it doesn’t have a torque converter, contributing to its improved fuel efficiency. However, it can sometimes exhibit slower and less smooth shifts compared to a conventional automatic.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 13.2 seconds, and the top speed is 110.6 mph. The Easytronic transmission, while offering convenience, doesn’t provide the responsiveness of a manual gearbox. Shifts can be noticeable, and the system sometimes hesitates during quick acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance, meaning the engine can feel strained when climbing hills or overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo variant, the ECOFLEX feels significantly slower. However, it offers a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments, where its fuel efficiency shines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic typically came equipped with features such as air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and front airbags. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, and a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display. The Adam was heavily marketed on its customization options, allowing buyers to choose from a wide range of exterior colors, roof designs, interior trims, and accessory packs. The Easytronic variant often served as a base for these personalization options.
Chassis & Braking
The Adam utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The torsion beam setup is a cost-effective solution commonly found in subcompact cars. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums on most ECOFLEX models. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise handling. The suspension is tuned for comfort, offering a compliant ride on most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Adam 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic was generally well-received by critics for its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and customization options. However, the Easytronic transmission was often criticized for its sluggishness and occasional jerky shifts. Compared to the manual transmission version, the Easytronic offered slightly worse fuel economy due to the inefficiencies of the automated system. Against rivals like the Fiat 500, the Adam offered more interior space and a more modern infotainment system, but the Fiat had a stronger brand image and a more established following. The Adam also faced competition from the Volkswagen up!, which offered a more refined driving experience but lacked the Adam’s extensive customization options.
Legacy
The Opel Adam, while not a massive sales success, established Opel as a brand capable of producing stylish and well-equipped small cars. The 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic powertrain proved to be relatively reliable, with few major mechanical issues reported. On the used car market, these models are generally affordable and represent a good value for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and customizable city car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations of the Easytronic transmission and factor in the possibility of occasional servicing requirements. The Adam’s emphasis on personalization and its youthful appeal continue to resonate with buyers today, making it a popular choice for those seeking a distinctive and affordable small car.
