Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Adam |
| Generation | Adam |
| Type (Engine) | Rocks 1.4 ECOFLEX (87 Hp) Easytronic |
| Start of production | January, 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 112 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 81.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 87 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 4000 rpm (95.88 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B14XER |
| 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.) |
| 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, automatic transmission Easytronic |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16; 215/45 R17; 225/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
The Opel Adam Rocks 1.4 ECOFLEX (87 hp) Easytronic is a subcompact city car produced by the German manufacturer Opel between January 2013 and June 2017. Positioned as a more rugged and stylish variant of the standard Opel Adam, the Rocks model featured increased ride height, protective cladding, and a convertible-style roll-top canvas roof. This particular configuration, powered by the 1.4-liter ECOFLEX engine paired with the Easytronic automated manual transmission, represented an entry-level to mid-range offering within the Adam Rocks lineup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance. It was primarily marketed in Europe, appealing to buyers seeking a fashionable and practical urban vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Opel Adam Rocks 1.4 ECOFLEX utilizes the B14XER engine code, a 1.4-liter (1398 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of Opel’s Family 0 small engine family. It features a naturally aspirated design with multi-point fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The ECOFLEX designation indicates the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, such as optimized engine management and reduced friction components. The engine produces 87 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm.
The Easytronic transmission is a five-speed automated manual gearbox. Unlike a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter, the Easytronic uses actuators to shift gears, offering a degree of fuel efficiency similar to a manual transmission but with the convenience of automatic operation. It allows for both fully automatic shifting and manual gear selection via buttons on the gear selector. However, it’s known for being less smooth and responsive than conventional automatics, with noticeable pauses during gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter ECOFLEX engine with the Easytronic transmission delivers modest performance in the Adam Rocks. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 13.9 seconds, and the top speed is 178 km/h (110.6 mph). The Easytronic transmission’s gear ratios are geared towards fuel economy rather than rapid acceleration. In real-world driving, the car feels adequate for urban commutes and shorter trips, but struggles with overtaking maneuvers or maintaining high speeds on the highway. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo variants, the ECOFLEX model feels significantly slower. The manual transmission versions of the 1.4 offered a more engaging driving experience and slightly improved performance due to the driver having more control over gear selection.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Adam Rocks 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and front airbags. The “Rocks” trim added unique exterior styling elements like plastic body cladding, a raised ride height, and the signature roll-top canvas roof. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for different color schemes. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, parking sensors, and heated seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Adam Rocks utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for comfort and urban driving, providing a relatively compliant ride. Braking systems consisted of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The steering is a rack and pinion system providing adequate feedback for city driving. The increased ride height of the Rocks model, compared to the standard Adam, provided slightly improved ground clearance but also resulted in a marginally higher center of gravity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Adam Rocks 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic was generally well-received for its stylish design and fuel efficiency. Critics praised its city-friendly size and maneuverability. However, the Easytronic transmission was often criticized for its sluggishness and lack of refinement. Compared to other trims in the Adam Rocks lineup, the 1.4 ECOFLEX offered the lowest price point and the best fuel economy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 1.4 Turbo models provided significantly more power and a more enjoyable driving experience, but at a higher cost. Competitors in the subcompact segment included the Fiat 500, Peugeot 108, and Volkswagen up!.
Legacy
The Opel Adam Rocks, and specifically the 1.4 ECOFLEX Easytronic variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The 1.4-liter engine is known for its durability, and the Easytronic transmission, while not without its quirks, is generally dependable with proper maintenance. Common issues reported by owners include occasional glitches with the Easytronic system and wear and tear on suspension components. Today, the Adam Rocks remains a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and affordable city car, particularly among younger buyers.
