The Opel Adam Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX (70 hp) was a subcompact city car produced by Opel, the German subsidiary of Stellantis, during the 2014 model year. Positioned as a more rugged and stylish variant of the standard Opel Adam, the Rocks featured a raised ride height, plastic body cladding, and a convertible-style roll-top canvas roof. This particular 1.2 ECOFLEX engine and five-speed manual transmission combination represented the entry-level powertrain option for the Adam Rocks, aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the subcompact segment is particularly popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Adam |
| Generation | Adam |
| Type (Engine) | Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX (70 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.4 kg/Hp, 69.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57 Hp/l |
| Torque | 115 Nm @ 4000 rpm (84.82 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A12XER |
| Engine displacement | 1229 cm3 (75 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 72.6 mm (2.86 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 | 1011-1026 kg (2228.87 – 2261.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1455-1470 kg (3207.73 – 3240.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 444 kg (978.85 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Front track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.17-11.06 m (33.37 – 36.29 ft.) |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Introduction
The Opel Adam Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX (70 hp) was introduced in 2014 as a more adventurous take on the standard Opel Adam. The Adam itself was Opel’s entry into the burgeoning mini car segment, designed to compete with vehicles like the Fiat 500 and Volkswagen up!. The “Rocks” variant aimed to broaden the Adam’s appeal by offering a more rugged aesthetic and a slightly increased ride height. The 1.2 ECOFLEX engine, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, served as the base engine option, prioritizing fuel economy and affordability. It was built on the General Motors Gamma II platform, also underpinning models like the Chevrolet Trax and Buick Encore.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Adam Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX is the A12XER engine, a 1.2-liter (1229 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine is naturally aspirated, meaning it doesn’t employ a turbocharger or supercharger. The 70 horsepower output at 5600 rpm and 115 Nm (84.82 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm are relatively modest, reflecting the engine’s focus on efficiency. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard gearbox for this variant, offering a traditional driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy, with a relatively long final drive. Opel’s “ECOFLEX” designation indicated the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, such as low rolling resistance tires and optimized engine management software.
Driving Characteristics
The Adam Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX offered a comfortable, if uninspiring, driving experience. Acceleration was leisurely, taking approximately 14.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h (62 mph). The engine felt strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The five-speed manual transmission was light and easy to use, but the long gearing meant frequent shifting was required to maintain momentum. Compared to the more powerful 1.4-liter turbocharged engine option available on the Adam Rocks, the 1.2 ECOFLEX felt significantly slower. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to nimble handling in city driving. The raised suspension of the Rocks variant, while providing a slightly more commanding view of the road, also resulted in a noticeable amount of body roll in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Adam Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX typically came equipped with basic features as standard, including air conditioning, power steering, ABS brakes, and a basic audio system. The interior featured cloth upholstery and a functional, if somewhat basic, dashboard layout. The signature feature of the Rocks variant was its canvas roll-top roof, which offered an open-air driving experience similar to a convertible. Optional extras included alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and various interior trim options. The trim levels were relatively simple, with the ECOFLEX representing the entry point to the Rocks range.
Chassis & Braking
The Adam Rocks utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The torsion beam rear suspension was a cost-effective solution commonly found in subcompact cars. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drum brakes. This configuration was typical for vehicles in this weight class. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise steering feel. The raised ride height of the Rocks variant, compared to the standard Adam, provided slightly improved ground clearance, making it more suitable for navigating rougher road surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Adam Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX was generally well-received by critics for its stylish design and fuel efficiency. However, the 70 hp engine was often criticized for being underpowered, particularly when compared to competitors offering more potent engine options. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined fuel consumption figures of around 5 liters per 100 kilometers (47 US mpg). Compared to the higher-powered Adam Rocks variants, the 1.2 ECOFLEX offered a more affordable entry price, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. However, the slower acceleration and limited performance meant it wasn’t the ideal choice for drivers who frequently traveled on motorways or enjoyed spirited driving.
Legacy
The A12XER engine, while not known for its performance, proved to be a relatively reliable unit. Common issues were generally minor and related to routine maintenance items such as spark plugs and ignition coils. The Adam Rocks 1.2 ECOFLEX remains a relatively affordable option on the used car market. Its fuel efficiency and low running costs make it a practical choice for city driving. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power output and the potential for wear and tear on the suspension components, given the vehicle’s raised ride height. The Adam Rocks, as a whole, represents a unique attempt by Opel to blend the practicality of a small hatchback with the style and appeal of a crossover.
