The Opel Combo Tour B 1.4Si, produced between 1994 and 2000, represented an entry-level offering within the second generation of the Opel Combo van. Positioned as a practical and affordable light commercial vehicle, the Tour B series, based on the Corsa B platform, aimed to provide a versatile solution for small businesses and individuals requiring a compact cargo carrier. The 1.4Si variant, with its 82 horsepower engine, was specifically tailored for those prioritizing economy and ease of use over outright performance. It primarily served the European market, where small vans and pickups were – and continue to be – a significant segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Combo |
| Generation | Combo Tour B |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4Si (82 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59 Hp/l |
| Torque | 113 Nm @ 3400 rpm / 83.34 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 | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| 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 |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3000 l / 105.94 cu. ft. |
| Length | 4230 mm / 166.54 in. |
| Width | 1686 mm / 66.38 in. |
| Height | 1805 mm / 71.06 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2480 mm / 97.64 in. |
| Front track | 1387 mm / 54.61 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1427 mm / 56.18 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm / 6.3 in. |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Combo Tour B 1.4Si is the C14SE engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, a staple in many Opel and Vauxhall vehicles of the era, utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration and multi-port fuel injection. The C14SE is known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability and ease of maintenance. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating four valves per cylinder, a configuration common for engines of this displacement and intended to balance performance and fuel efficiency. The 82 horsepower output is achieved at 5800 rpm, while peak torque of 113 Nm (83.34 lb-ft) arrives at 3400 rpm. The engine’s relatively low compression ratio of 10:1 allowed it to run reliably on the available fuel grades in European markets. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4Si variant of the Combo Tour B offers a utilitarian driving experience. With 82 horsepower propelling a vehicle designed for carrying loads, acceleration is modest. The focus is on providing sufficient power for everyday tasks and maintaining reasonable fuel economy. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter or diesel variants, the 1.4Si feels noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded. However, its lighter weight and simpler mechanicals contribute to a more nimble feel in urban environments. The gear ratios are geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency rather than providing sporty acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Combo Tour B 1.4Si was typically offered with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level commercial vehicle. Standard features generally included a driver’s airbag, basic instrumentation, and vinyl or cloth upholstery. The interior was designed for practicality and durability, with hard-wearing plastics and minimal ornamentation. Optional extras, depending on the market and year, could include power steering, central locking, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level was generally focused on functionality, with the emphasis on providing a robust and reliable workhorse. The pickup body style offered a large cargo bed, ideal for transporting goods, while the van version provided enclosed storage space.
Chassis & Braking
The Combo Tour B utilizes a relatively simple chassis design, based on the Corsa B. The front suspension consists of MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam axle. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking is typically accomplished with disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The braking system is adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, but it lacks the sophistication of more advanced systems found in higher-end vehicles. Stabilizer bars were often omitted on the base 1.4Si model to keep costs down, resulting in slightly more body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Combo Tour B 1.4Si was generally well-received as a practical and affordable light commercial vehicle. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of use, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the 1.6-liter versions, the 1.4Si offered lower running costs but sacrificed acceleration and towing capacity. The diesel variants, while more expensive to purchase, provided superior fuel economy and torque, making them a popular choice for those covering high mileages or frequently carrying heavy loads. The 1.4Si appealed to a specific segment of the market – those prioritizing economy and simplicity over performance and refinement.
Legacy
The Opel Combo Tour B 1.4Si, while not a particularly glamorous vehicle, has proven to be a durable and reliable workhorse. The C14SE engine is known for its longevity, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, these Combos are often sought after by those needing a cheap and cheerful van or pickup for basic tasks. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, and parts are readily available. However, potential buyers should be aware of the possibility of rust, particularly on older examples. The 1.4Si variant represents a simple, honest, and affordable solution for light commercial needs, and its enduring presence on the roads is a testament to its practicality and reliability.
