The Opel Corsa E 3-door 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG, produced between April 2015 and April 2018, represented an entry-level offering within the fifth generation of the Corsa (E) model line. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and affordable option, this variant catered to buyers seeking a practical and economical city car. It was primarily sold in European markets, where the Corsa has historically been a popular supermini. The “E” generation Corsa (internal code B16) aimed to modernize the Corsa lineup with updated styling, improved interior quality, and a range of efficient engine options, including this LPG-compatible 1.4-liter variant.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 3-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 ECOTEC (90 Hp) LPG |
| Start of production | April, 2015 |
| End of production | April, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (LPG) | 9.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (LPG) | 5.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (LPG) | 7.0 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (LPG) | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.4 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| 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) |
| Coolant | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt, 4.49 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1090 l (38.49 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal, 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4021 mm (158.31 in.) |
| Width | 1736 mm (68.35 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1479 mm (58.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2510 mm (98.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.00 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE to Front Wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 88H; 185/70 R14 88T |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15; 5.5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Corsa variant is the 1.4-liter (1398 cc) B14XER inline-four cylinder engine. This engine belongs to Opel’s ECOTEC family, known for its focus on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The B14XER utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The engine produces 90 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Crucially, this engine was designed to be compatible with LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) conversions, offering owners the potential for significantly lower running costs. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard gearbox for this model, providing a balance between fuel economy and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4-liter 90 hp Corsa E, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, offered a modest but adequate driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.2 seconds, and top speed was approximately 108.74 mph. The engine’s torque delivery was relatively flat, meaning it didn’t offer a strong surge of power but provided usable acceleration in everyday driving situations. Compared to higher-output versions of the Corsa E, such as those with the 1.0-liter turbo engine, this variant felt noticeably slower. However, it offered better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing lower engine speeds at highway cruising. The LPG conversion, when utilized, further reduced running costs but could slightly impact performance due to the different energy density of LPG compared to gasoline.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG typically represented a base or mid-range trim level within the Corsa E lineup. Standard equipment generally included power steering, ABS, front airbags, and basic infotainment system with radio and USB connectivity. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively simple design. Optional extras could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows, and upgraded infotainment systems. The specific trim level name varied depending on the market, but this engine/transmission combination was often found in trims aimed at budget-conscious buyers.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for city driving. Front and rear disc brakes were standard, offering adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was also standard, enhancing safety. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling. Tire sizes typically ranged from 185/65 R15 to 185/70 R14, depending on the trim level.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Corsa E 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG was generally well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, particularly when running on LPG, and its comfortable ride. However, it was often criticized for its relatively low power output and somewhat basic interior. Compared to other trims in the Corsa E lineup, such as the 1.0-liter turbo, this variant offered lower performance but better fuel economy and a lower purchase price. It competed with other superminis in the European market, such as the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Renault Clio.
Legacy
The B14XER engine, while not known for being particularly high-performance, proved to be relatively reliable. The LPG conversion, when properly installed and maintained, added to the engine’s longevity by reducing carbon buildup. In the used car market, the Corsa E 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and economical runabout. Its simple mechanical design and readily available parts contribute to its relatively low maintenance costs. While not a collector’s item, it represents a practical and dependable option for those seeking a no-frills supermini.
