Opel Tigra B TwinTop 1.4i 16V ECOTEC (90 Hp)

The Opel Tigra B TwinTop: A Compact European Roadster with a Retractable Hardtop

The Opel Tigra B TwinTop, specifically the 1.4i 16V ECOTEC (90 Hp) variant, represents the second generation of Opel’s compact two-seater, produced from October 2004 to June 2009. Unlike its predecessor, which was a fixed-roof coupe based on the Corsa B, the Tigra B was reimagined as a stylish coupe-cabriolet, featuring an innovative electrically operated retractable hardtop. This transformation placed the Tigra B TwinTop squarely in the burgeoning European market segment for affordable, small-footprint convertibles, offering the security and refinement of a coupe with the open-air exhilaration of a roadster. Designed primarily for the European market, where compact dimensions and fuel efficiency are highly valued, the Tigra B TwinTop aimed to blend practicality with an engaging driving experience and distinctive styling, all while leveraging Opel’s established reputation for engineering and value.

Powertrain and Performance of the Opel Tigra B TwinTop

Under the hood, the Opel Tigra B TwinTop 1.4i 16V ECOTEC variant was equipped with a naturally aspirated 1.4-liter (1364 cm3 or 83.24 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder engine. This powerplant, designated Z14XEP, was part of Opel’s ECOTEC family, a line of engines engineered for a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions. It featured a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for combustion. The engine delivered a respectable 90 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 92.2 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. This output was channeled to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, providing a direct and engaging driving feel.

While not designed for outright speed, the Tigra B TwinTop offered adequate performance for its segment and intended use. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 11.8 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 111.85 mph (180 km/h). Its light curb weight of 2722.71 lbs. (1235 kg) contributed to a weight-to-power ratio of 13.7 kg/Hp, allowing for nimble handling and responsiveness in urban environments and on winding roads. The ECOTEC engine, combined with a relatively low curb weight, also delivered commendable fuel economy for a vehicle of its type. The combined fuel consumption was rated at 38.6 US mpg (6.1 l/100 km), with an impressive 47 US mpg (5 l/100 km) on the extra-urban cycle, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and weekend getaways.

Design, Features, and Engineering

The most defining characteristic of the Opel Tigra B TwinTop was its innovative body style: a two-door, two-seat coupe-cabriolet. The “TwinTop” moniker highlighted its signature feature – an electrically operated metal folding roof that could transform the car from a rigid-roof coupe to an open-top roadster in a matter of seconds. This design provided the best of both worlds: the enhanced security, rigidity, and weather protection of a fixed-roof car, coupled with the freedom and enjoyment of a convertible. When the roof was stowed, it cleverly retracted into the trunk area, though still leaving a usable 8.83 cu. ft. (250 liters) of cargo space. With the roof up, the trunk capacity expanded significantly to 15.54 cu. ft. (440 liters), offering surprising practicality for a compact two-seater.

Dimensionally, the Tigra B TwinTop was compact, with a length of 154.37 inches (3921 mm), a width of 66.34 inches (1685 mm), and a height of 53.7 inches (1364 mm). Its wheelbase of 98.07 inches (2491 mm) contributed to its agile handling. The exterior styling was contemporary for its era, featuring Opel’s design language with clean lines, prominent wheel arches, and a distinctive front fascia. The interior, while compact, was designed to be ergonomic and comfortable for two occupants, with a focus on ease of use for the convertible mechanism.

For ride and handling, the Tigra B TwinTop utilized a conventional yet effective suspension setup, with spring struts at the front and coil springs at the rear. Braking power was provided by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety and control during emergency stops. The steering system was a responsive rack and pinion setup, ensuring direct feedback to the driver. Standard tire size was 185/60 R15, mounted on 6J x 15-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort.

Technical Specifications: Opel Tigra B TwinTop 1.4i 16V ECOTEC (90 Hp)

Legacy and Market Impact in Europe

The Opel Tigra B TwinTop carved out a specific niche in the European automotive landscape during its production run. It succeeded the original Tigra, which had been a popular fixed-roof coupe among younger buyers, but pivoted to capitalize on the growing trend of compact coupe-cabriolets. This segment, popularized by models like the Peugeot 206 CC, offered the allure of a convertible experience without the premium price tag or the perceived security and weather concerns of a traditional soft-top. The Tigra B TwinTop’s retractable hardtop was a significant selling point, providing year-round usability and a quieter, more refined cabin when the roof was closed.

Its primary competitors in the European market included the aforementioned Peugeot 206 CC (and later 207 CC), the Nissan Micra C+C, and the Mitsubishi Colt CZC. Compared to these rivals, the Tigra B TwinTop was often praised for its attractive styling, solid build quality, and competitive pricing. While it shared its platform with the Opel Corsa C and Meriva, its unique body style and focus on open-top driving gave it a distinct identity. The 1.4i 16V ECOTEC variant, in particular, was positioned as an economical and practical choice for those seeking a stylish convertible that wouldn’t break the bank on fuel or insurance.

The Tigra B TwinTop’s legacy is rooted in its role as an accessible and stylish entry into the convertible market. It demonstrated Opel’s ability to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and introduce innovative features like the retractable hardtop to a broader audience. Although it was never officially sold in the United States, its design philosophy and engineering principles were consistent with global automotive trends of the early 2000s, emphasizing versatility, efficiency, and a touch of lifestyle appeal in a compact package. Its production ceased as the market for these specific compact coupe-cabriolets began to wane, but the Tigra B TwinTop remains a notable example of Opel’s efforts to offer diverse and engaging vehicles to its European customer base.