The Opel Combo Tour B 1.4i (90 hp) was a commercial vehicle produced between 1999 and 2000, representing a key variant within the second generation of the Opel Combo. Based on the Corsa B platform, the Combo Tour B was designed as a practical and affordable light commercial vehicle, offering a panel van and a combi (passenger/cargo) configuration. The 1.4i engine, producing 90 horsepower, served as an entry-level powertrain option, aimed at businesses and individuals prioritizing economy and functionality over outright performance. This variant primarily served the European market, where small vans and light commercial vehicles are particularly popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Combo |
| Generation | Combo Tour B |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4i (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 92.2 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1389 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 84.76 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.6 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 3.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 2.89 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 3.7 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 3.08 UK qt |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l |
| Coolant capacity (US qt) | 5.81 US qt |
| Coolant capacity (UK qt) | 4.84 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3000 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 105.94 cu. ft. |
| Length | 4230 mm |
| Length (in.) | 166.54 in. |
| Width | 1686 mm |
| Width (in.) | 66.38 in. |
| Height | 1805 mm |
| Height (in.) | 71.06 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2480 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 97.64 in. |
| Front track | 1387 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 54.61 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1427 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 56.18 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) (in.) | 6.3 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Combo Tour B 1.4i utilized the Opel/Vauxhall 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine, typically identified by engine codes such as X14XE. This engine was a relatively simple, naturally aspirated unit featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and multi-port fuel injection. The X14XE engine was known for its robustness and relatively low maintenance requirements. The 90 hp output was achieved through a combination of optimized fuel injection mapping and a slightly higher compression ratio compared to lower-powered versions of the same engine. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration were standard for vehicles in this class. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and usability. The transmission was a conventional design, known for its durability, but not particularly refined in terms of shift quality.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4i engine in the Combo Tour B provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. With 90 horsepower propelling a light commercial vehicle, acceleration was modest, particularly when laden with cargo. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but frequent downshifts were often necessary when climbing hills or overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter or diesel variants, the 1.4i felt noticeably slower. However, the lower power output translated to improved fuel economy, making it a popular choice for businesses focused on minimizing operating costs. The gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency rather than outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Combo Tour B 1.4i was typically offered in a basic trim level, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard equipment generally included a driver’s airbag, central locking, and basic instrumentation. The interior was functional and utilitarian, with durable plastic trim and cloth upholstery. Optional extras, such as power windows, air conditioning, and a radio/cassette player, were available, but often specified at the time of purchase. The combi version offered a rear bench seat, increasing passenger capacity to five, while the panel van configuration featured a solid bulkhead separating the cargo area from the cab.
Chassis & Braking
The Combo Tour B utilized a simple yet effective chassis design. The front suspension consisted of MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a twist beam axle. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking was typically accomplished with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety, particularly in slippery conditions. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, providing adequate precision and feedback. Stabilizer bars were often omitted on the base model to keep costs down.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Combo Tour B 1.4i was generally well-received as a practical and affordable light commercial vehicle. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of refinement and modest performance. Compared to the 1.6-liter and diesel variants, the 1.4i offered a lower purchase price but compromised on power and towing capacity. The 1.9D diesel, for example, provided significantly more torque and better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for long-distance driving and heavy loads. However, the 1.4i remained a competitive option for businesses and individuals who prioritized economy and simplicity.
Legacy
The Opel Combo Tour B 1.4i, while not the most powerful or refined variant, proved to be a reliable and durable workhorse. The X14XE engine is known for its longevity, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, these Combos are often sought after by those looking for an affordable and practical van for light commercial duties. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, and spare parts are readily available. While not a collector’s item, the 1.4i Combo Tour B represents a significant part of Opel’s history as a provider of affordable and functional commercial vehicles.
