The Opel Corsa D (Facelift, produced 2011-2014) 3-door 1.3 CDTI 75 hp Start/Stop represents an entry-level diesel offering within the fourth generation Corsa lineup. Introduced as part of the facelifted Corsa D range, this variant aimed to provide fuel efficiency and affordability to buyers in the European market. It occupied the lower end of the performance spectrum for the Corsa D, positioned below the more powerful petrol and diesel options. The inclusion of the Start/Stop system was a key feature, reflecting Opel’s efforts to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. This model was primarily sold in Europe, where small, economical diesel hatchbacks were – and continue to be – highly popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa D (Facelift 2011) 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI (75 Hp) Start/Stop |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | August, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.1 kg/Hp, 66.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 169 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (124.65 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A13DTC |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1130 kg (2491.22 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1555 kg (3428.19 lbs) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3999 mm (157.44 in) |
| Width | 1737 mm (68.39 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in) |
| Height | 1488 mm (58.58 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2511 mm (98.86 in) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1478 mm (58.19 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
Introduction
The Corsa D facelift, launched in 2011, brought revised styling and updated engine options to Opel’s popular supermini. The 1.3 CDTI 75 hp Start/Stop variant was designed to appeal to cost-conscious buyers seeking a fuel-efficient city car. It was positioned as the entry point into the Corsa D diesel range, offering a balance between affordability and practicality. The three-door body style further emphasized its sporty, youthful appeal, though it sacrificed some rear passenger access compared to the five-door model. This version was a common sight on European roads, particularly in countries with high fuel costs and dense urban environments.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Corsa D 1.3 CDTI is the A13DTC engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel/Fiat’s family of small diesel engines, and it utilizes a common rail direct injection system for optimized fuel delivery and combustion. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque. The 75 hp output is achieved at 4000 rpm, while peak torque of 169 Nm (124.65 lb-ft) is available between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The Start/Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts it instantly when the clutch is depressed, contributing to fuel savings. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and efficiency. This transmission was a standard offering for this trim level, with no automatic option available.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 CDTI 75 hp engine delivers modest performance. Acceleration is not its strong suit, with a 0-60 mph time of around 13.8 seconds. However, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, particularly in urban and suburban settings. The turbocharger helps to provide a reasonable amount of low-end torque, making it relatively easy to keep up with traffic. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios designed to maximize fuel efficiency. Compared to the more powerful 1.7 CDTI variants, the 1.3 CDTI feels noticeably slower, but it offers significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission also provides a more engaging driving experience than an automatic would have.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Corsa D 1.3 CDTI 75 hp Start/Stop typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS, front airbags, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows, and a more advanced audio system. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a trip computer, remote central locking, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa D utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are typically disc brakes, while the rear brakes are drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, making it well-suited for everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa D 1.3 CDTI 75 hp Start/Stop was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical city car. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, and the Start/Stop system was praised for its effectiveness in reducing emissions. However, some reviewers criticized its lack of power and its relatively basic interior. Compared to other small diesel hatchbacks on the market, such as the Volkswagen Polo and the Ford Fiesta, the Corsa D offered a competitive price point and a good level of fuel economy. The 1.7 CDTI Corsa D offered more performance, but at a higher price and with slightly lower fuel economy. The petrol versions were cheaper to buy but less fuel efficient.
Legacy
The A13DTC engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. Regular servicing and the use of quality diesel fuel are essential to maintain its longevity. Today, used examples of the Corsa D 1.3 CDTI 75 hp Start/Stop are readily available and relatively affordable. They remain a popular choice for first-time drivers and those seeking a cheap and economical runabout. While not a performance car, it represents a solid and dependable option in the used car market, particularly for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs.
