The Opel Adam 1.4 (100 hp) was a subcompact hatchback produced from 2012 to 2018, representing Opel’s entry into the burgeoning city car segment. Positioned as a stylish and highly customizable alternative to rivals like the Fiat 500 and Volkswagen up!, the Adam aimed to attract a younger demographic with its vibrant color options and focus on personalization. This particular 1.4-liter, 100 horsepower variant served as a mid-range offering within the Adam lineup, bridging the gap between the base 1.2-liter engine and the more potent 1.4 Turbo models. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where demand for small, fuel-efficient, and fashionable vehicles was strong.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Adam |
| Generation | Adam |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.1-7.0 l/100 km (33.1 – 33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.4 l/100 km (52.3 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 125-124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 4000 rpm (95.88 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A14XER |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1065 kg (2347.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415 kg (914.92 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 38 l (10.04 US gal | 8.36 UK gal) |
| Length | 3698 mm (145.59 in.) |
| Width | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2311 mm (90.98 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Adam 1.4 was the A14XER engine, a 1.4-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was part of Opel’s Family 0 small engine family. It featured multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The A14XER produced 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine was known for its relatively smooth operation and decent fuel economy, but it wasn’t particularly powerful. The Adam 1.4 was typically paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although a six-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, slightly impacted fuel economy and acceleration compared to the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter engine in the Adam provided adequate performance for urban driving and short highway trips. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 10.9 seconds, making it slower than the 1.4 Turbo variants. The five-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts, while the optional automatic provided smooth, if somewhat leisurely, gear changes. The car’s relatively light weight (around 1065 kg or 2348 lbs) helped to mitigate the engine’s modest power output. Handling was generally nimble, thanks to the Adam’s compact size and well-tuned suspension. However, the steering lacked significant feedback, and the ride could be a bit firm on rough roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Adam 1.4 was available in a variety of trim levels, each offering a different level of equipment. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a panoramic sunroof. Opel heavily emphasized personalization with the Adam, offering a wide range of exterior colors, interior trim options, and styling packs. Buyers could customize their Adam with features like contrasting roof colors, unique wheel designs, and distinctive interior accents.
Chassis & Braking
The Opel Adam utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front brakes were typically ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drum brakes on most variants. The suspension was tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a reasonably compliant ride for a small car. The steering system was an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering light and easy steering feel. Tire sizes varied depending on the trim level, ranging from 195/55 R16 to 225/35 R18.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Adam 1.4 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, customizable features, and fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted its relatively high price compared to other city cars and its modest performance with the 1.4-liter engine. Compared to the 1.4 Turbo models, the 1.4 offered less power and acceleration but was more affordable and slightly more fuel-efficient. The 1.2-liter base engine was even more economical but lacked the refinement and performance of the 1.4. The Adam competed directly with the Fiat 500, Volkswagen up!, and Peugeot 108, each offering a unique blend of style, features, and price.
Legacy
The Opel Adam, while not a massive sales success, established Opel as a player in the fashionable city car segment. The 1.4-liter engine proved to be relatively reliable, with few major mechanical issues reported. On the used car market, the Adam 1.4 remains an affordable and stylish option for buyers seeking a small, fuel-efficient hatchback. Its customizable features and distinctive design continue to appeal to those looking for a car that stands out from the crowd. While the Adam has been discontinued, its influence can be seen in Opel’s subsequent small car offerings, such as the Corsa.
