The Opel Astra F 1.4 Si, producing 82 horsepower, was a mainstay of the Astra F range produced between 1992 and 1994. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering, it represented a balance between affordability and practicality within the broader Astra F generation (1991-1998), which was Opel’s significant entry into the competitive C-segment hatchback market. This variant aimed to provide economical transportation for families and individuals, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of use over outright performance. It was a key model for Opel in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, and Peugeot 305.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra F |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Si (82 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1992 |
| End of production | 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 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) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 1 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 87.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 121.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59 Hp/l |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 3400 rpm (84.08 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | C14SE |
| Engine displacement | 1389 cm3 (84.76 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.6 mm (3.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 940/960 kg (2072.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1455 kg (3207.73 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495-515 kg (1091.29 – 1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 360 l (12.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1200 l (42.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4051 mm (159.49 in.) |
| Width | 1688 mm (66.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1410 mm (55.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2517 mm (99.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1429 mm (56.26 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Suspension with traction connecting levers |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/70 R13 82T; 175/65 R14 81S |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 13 ET49; 5.5J x 14 ET49 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Astra F 1.4 Si utilized the C14SE engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was a relatively simple design, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder. The C14SE employed multi-port fuel injection, a significant upgrade from earlier carbureted Opel engines, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio was typical for the era, balancing performance and fuel economy. The 82 horsepower and 114 Nm of torque were delivered at 5800 rpm and 3400 rpm respectively. The engine was transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, although a four-speed automatic transmission was also available, albeit less common. The automatic transmission was a traditional hydraulic unit, offering smooth but less responsive shifts compared to modern automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 Si, particularly with the manual transmission, offered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 12.4 seconds, and top speed was approximately 108.74 mph. However, the 82 hp engine felt strained when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The automatic transmission version further diminished acceleration, making it feel noticeably slower. Gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy rather than outright performance. The steering was light and easy, making it suitable for urban driving, but lacked the precision of more performance-oriented Astra models. The suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps reasonably well, but body roll was noticeable during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Si typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features included power steering, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a simple dashboard layout. Optional extras included electric windows, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level was generally considered entry-level, appealing to buyers prioritizing affordability. Higher trim levels, such as the 1.6 or 1.8 models, offered more luxurious features and improved performance.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra F 1.4 Si utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Brakes were disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available as an option, enhancing safety. The 1.4 Si typically featured smaller tires (175/70 R13 or 175/65 R14) compared to higher-spec models, contributing to a slightly less sporty feel. Stabilizer bars were present, but were thinner than those found on more powerful Astra variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra F 1.4 Si was generally well-received as an affordable and practical hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the 1.6 and 1.8-liter models, the 1.4 Si offered significantly less power and acceleration. The 1.6-liter engine provided a noticeable performance boost, while the 1.8-liter models offered even greater power and refinement. The diesel-powered Astra models (e.g., 1.7 TDI) offered superior fuel economy but lacked the refinement of the petrol engines. The 1.4 Si’s reliability was generally good, although the automatic transmission could be prone to issues if not properly maintained.
Legacy
The Opel Astra F 1.4 Si remains a relatively common sight on European roads today, testament to its durability and affordability. The C14SE engine is known for its robustness, although age-related issues such as oil leaks and worn seals are common. Parts availability is generally good, making maintenance relatively straightforward. In the used car market, the 1.4 Si represents a budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable and economical hatchback. While not a performance icon, it played a crucial role in establishing the Astra F as a popular and successful model in the C-segment.
