The Opel Combo Tour C (facelifted in 2003) 1.4i 16V, producing 90 horsepower, represents an entry-level variant within the Combo Tour C range, manufactured from July 2004 to September 2010. Positioned as a practical and affordable option, this version catered to buyers prioritizing functionality and economy over outright performance. The Combo Tour C itself was a versatile light commercial vehicle and multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) based on the Fiat Doblo, a result of the partnership between General Motors and Fiat. This facelifted version, introduced in 2003, brought updated styling and minor mechanical refinements to the original Tour C model.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Combo |
| Generation | Combo Tour C (facelift 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4i 16V (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2004 |
| End of production | September, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 72.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm, 101.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66 Hp/l |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4000 rpm (92.2 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z14XEP |
| Engine displacement | 1364 cm3 (83.24 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.6 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2700 l (95.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4322 mm (170.16 in.) |
| Width | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1892 mm (74.49 in.) |
| Height | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2716 mm (106.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 747 mm (29.41 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 859 mm (33.82 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (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 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Combo variant is the Z14XEP engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belongs to Opel’s ‘Family 1’ series, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency. The Z14XEP features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and power delivery compared to older single overhead cam designs. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s 90 horsepower output is achieved at 5600 rpm, while peak torque of 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) arrives at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The transmission is a five-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its affordability and simplicity. While an automatic transmission was offered on other Combo variants, it wasn’t typically paired with the 1.4i 90hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4i 90 hp Combo Tour C offers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 14 seconds, making it far from a sporty vehicle. The engine feels strained when fully loaded or climbing hills, requiring frequent downshifts to maintain speed. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing adequate gear spacing for everyday driving. Compared to the more powerful 1.7 CDTi diesel or the 1.8-liter gasoline variants, the 1.4i feels noticeably slower. However, its lighter weight and less stressed engine contribute to a smoother and more refined driving experience at lower speeds. The steering is light and easy, making it maneuverable in urban environments, but lacks the precision of more performance-oriented vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4i 16V typically represented the base trim level for the Combo Tour C. Standard equipment generally included power steering, central locking, driver and passenger airbags, and an adjustable steering column. Interior appointments were functional rather than luxurious, with durable plastic trim and cloth upholstery. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and a radio/CD player. Higher trim levels, available with the more powerful engines, offered features like alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, and more advanced audio systems. The focus of this trim was on providing a basic, reliable, and affordable MPV for families or small businesses.
Chassis & Braking
The Combo Tour C utilizes a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consists of MacPherson struts, while the rear employs a coil spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning is geared towards maximizing load-carrying capacity and providing a stable ride, rather than offering dynamic handling. Stabilizer bars were typically fitted to improve body roll control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.4i 16V Combo Tour C was generally well-received as a practical and economical MPV. Critics praised its spacious interior, versatility, and low running costs. However, the engine’s lack of power was a common criticism, particularly when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.4i offered lower purchase price but higher fuel consumption. The 1.8-liter gasoline engine provided significantly more performance but at a higher cost. The 1.4i appealed to buyers who prioritized affordability and fuel economy over outright performance, making it a popular choice for families and small businesses.
Legacy
The Z14XEP engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be reasonably reliable when properly maintained. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and sensor failures. The Combo Tour C 1.4i 16V remains a relatively affordable option on the used car market. Its simplicity and robust construction make it a good choice for those seeking a practical and dependable MPV. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power output and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced. Parts availability is generally good, and the Combo Tour C’s straightforward design makes it relatively easy to repair.
