The Opel Kadett E 1.3i CAT, produced from 1985 to 1991, represented the entry point into the Kadett E range, a pivotal model for Opel (and later Vauxhall) in the European compact car segment. Positioned as an affordable and practical family vehicle, the 1.3i CAT served as a high-volume seller, offering basic transportation with a focus on fuel economy. It was a key component of the Kadett E’s success, which was built on the GM T-platform (internally known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), shared with other models like the Vauxhall Astra and Isuzu Gemini. This variant was particularly popular in markets where smaller displacement engines were favored due to taxation and fuel costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Kadett |
| Generation | Kadett E |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3i CAT (60 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 16.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.6 kg/Hp, 68.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm, 109.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 60 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 46.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 96 Nm @ 3400 rpm (70.81 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | C13N |
| Engine displacement | 1297 cm3 (79.15 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 875 kg (1929.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 890 l (31.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4218 mm (166.06 in.) |
| Width | 1658 mm (65.28 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm (99.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1406 mm (55.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kadett E 1.3i CAT was the C13N engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder unit. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design and multi-port fuel injection, a relatively modern feature for its time, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The catalytic converter (“CAT” in the model name) was a crucial component in meeting increasingly stringent European emissions standards. The engine produced 60 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 96 Nm (70.81 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a reasonable spread of gears for everyday driving. While an automatic transmission was available on some Kadett E models, it was not typically paired with the 1.3-liter engine due to the limited power output.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3i CAT offered modest performance. Acceleration was leisurely, with 0-60 mph taking around 15.7 seconds. The engine felt strained at higher speeds, and overtaking required careful planning. The five-speed gearbox helped to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but the overall driving experience was geared towards economy rather than excitement. Compared to the more powerful Kadett E variants, such as the 1.6 or 2.0-liter models, the 1.3i CAT felt significantly underpowered. However, its lighter weight and efficient engine made it more nimble in city driving and more forgiving of less experienced drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3i CAT was typically offered in a base trim level, focusing on essential features. Standard equipment generally included cloth upholstery, a basic instrument cluster, and manual windows and door locks. Optional extras, such as a sunroof, upgraded stereo, and central locking, were available, but often added a significant cost to the vehicle. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Kadett E 1.3i CAT utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride, although handling was not particularly sporty. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes – a common configuration for vehicles in this price range. The braking system was adequate for normal driving conditions, but lacked the stopping power of the larger-engined Kadett E models. Stabilizer bars were often omitted from the base 1.3i CAT to keep costs down.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kadett E 1.3i CAT was well-received as an affordable and reliable family car. Critics praised its fuel economy and practicality, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to other compact cars of the era, such as the Ford Escort and Volkswagen Golf, the Kadett E offered a competitive price point and a spacious interior. The 1.6-liter Kadett E offered a noticeable performance upgrade, but at a higher price. The diesel-powered Kadett E models provided even better fuel economy, but were slower and noisier. The 1.3i CAT appealed to buyers who prioritized economy and practicality over driving excitement.
Legacy
The Opel Kadett E 1.3i CAT remains a relatively common sight on European roads today, testament to its durability and reliability. The C13N engine is known for its longevity, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues such as oil leaks and corrosion. In the used car market, the 1.3i CAT is valued for its affordability and simplicity. It’s often seen as a good first car or a reliable runabout for those on a budget. While not a performance icon, the Kadett E 1.3i CAT played a significant role in establishing Opel as a major player in the European compact car market, and continues to be remembered fondly by many owners.
