The Opel Corsa B, specifically the 1.2i variant with 45 horsepower, represented the entry point into the second generation Corsa lineup, produced from March 1997 through December 1997. This facelifted version of the Corsa B (internally designated as the 1HX0/A3 platform) aimed to provide affordable and economical transportation within the European market. Positioned as the base model, it catered to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs over outright performance. The 1.2i served as a practical city car, popular with first-time drivers and those seeking a simple, reliable vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa B (facelift 1997) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2i (45 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 1997 |
| End of production | December, 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 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) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 155 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 20 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 20 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 19 sec |
| Maximum speed | 145 km/h (90.1 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 19.3 kg/Hp, 51.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm, 101.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 45 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 37.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 2800 rpm (64.91 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X12SZ |
| Engine displacement | 1196 cm3 (72.98 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 867 kg (1911.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1395 kg (3075.45 lbs.) |
| Max load | 528 kg (1164.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 260 l (9.18 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 46 l (12.15 US gal | 10.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 3740 mm (147.24 in.) |
| Width | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Height | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2445 mm (96.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1385 mm (54.53 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| 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 | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Corsa B 1.2i was the X12SZ engine, a 1.2-liter (1196 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilized a single-point fuel injection system, a relatively simple and cost-effective technology for the time. The X12SZ featured a two-valve per cylinder configuration and a compression ratio of 10:1. Its modest output of 45 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 88 Nm (64.91 lb-ft) of torque at 2800 rpm was achieved through a relatively conservative engine tuning. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, designed for durability and ease of use. While an automatic transmission was offered on other Corsa B variants, it was not available with the base 1.2i engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2i Corsa B offered a decidedly unhurried driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 20 seconds, and top speed was limited to 145 km/h (90.1 mph). The engine’s power delivery was linear but lacked significant punch, requiring frequent gear changes to maintain momentum, especially when overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 or 1.6-liter versions, or even the diesel options, the 1.2i felt noticeably slower. However, its lightweight construction and relatively short wheelbase made it nimble and easy to maneuver in urban environments. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing a reasonable spread of gears for everyday driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
As the entry-level model, the Corsa B 1.2i was equipped with basic but essential features. Standard equipment typically included power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras, such as air conditioning, electric windows, and alloy wheels, were available but added to the vehicle’s cost. The trim level was generally quite spartan, focusing on providing a functional and affordable vehicle rather than luxury or refinement.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa B 1.2i utilized a relatively simple chassis design. Front suspension consisted of coil springs, while the rear suspension also employed coil springs. The front brakes were disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. However, the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering system was a rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive steering. The vehicle’s relatively light weight (approximately 867 kg or 1911 lbs) contributed to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Corsa B 1.2i was generally well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to other trims in the Corsa B lineup, the 1.2i offered the lowest price point but also the least amount of power and features. It competed with other small hatchbacks such as the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, and Volkswagen Polo, often undercutting them in price. Its fuel economy figures of around 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) were competitive for the time.
Legacy
The X12SZ engine, while not known for its performance, proved to be a relatively reliable and durable unit. Corsa B 1.2i models are still found on the used car market today, often at very affordable prices. However, due to their age, they may require more frequent maintenance and repairs. The 1.2i variant is often favored by those seeking a simple, inexpensive, and fuel-efficient vehicle for short commutes or as a first car. Its simplicity makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair, and parts availability is generally good. While not a collector’s item, the Corsa B 1.2i remains a practical and affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.
