The Opel Corsa E 5-door 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (75 hp) start/stop was a subcompact hatchback produced from November 2015 to June 2018. It represented an entry-level diesel option within the broader Corsa E range, which spanned from 2014 to 2019 and utilized the General Motors’ 1HX0/A3 platform. This variant aimed to provide fuel efficiency and affordability to buyers in the European market, where smaller, economical cars are highly popular. The Corsa E represented a significant redesign for the model, moving away from the previous generation’s styling and incorporating updated technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 5-door |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (75 Hp) start/stop |
| Start of production | November, 2015 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 100 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp, 64.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (140.14 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B13DTC |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.25:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1162 kg (2561.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1695 kg (3736.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 533 kg (1175.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1120 l (39.55 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Length | 4021 mm (158.31 in.) |
| Width | 1746 mm (68.74 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1944 mm (76.54 in.) |
| Height | 1481 mm (58.31 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 | 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 | 185/70 R14 88T; 185/65 R15 88H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 14; 6.0J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Corsa E 1.3 CDTI utilized the B13DTC engine code, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was part of Opel/Vauxhall’s ‘ECOTEC’ family, known for its focus on efficiency. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and a common-rail direct fuel injection system for optimized combustion. The engine produced 75 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 16.25:1 contributed to its fuel efficiency. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The start/stop system, a standard feature, further enhanced fuel economy by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle was stationary.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3 CDTI with 75 hp and a manual transmission provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 14.1 seconds, and top speed was 113 mph. The engine’s torque was readily available from low revs, making it suitable for city driving and overtaking at lower speeds. However, it lacked the punch of higher-powered Corsa E variants, such as those equipped with the 1.0-liter turbo petrol engine or the 1.4-liter turbo diesel. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than outright performance. The engine could feel strained when climbing hills or carrying a full load. Compared to the more powerful diesel options, this variant prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over dynamic driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (75 hp) typically served as the entry-level diesel trim in the Corsa E lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Safety features like ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trim levels added features like cruise control, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E 1.3 CDTI featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were disc brakes, while the rear brakes were typically disc brakes on higher trims, but drum brakes were common on the base models. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing reasonable precision. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering. The relatively light weight of the vehicle (around 1162 kg / 2562 lbs) helped to compensate for the engine’s modest power output.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa E 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (75 hp) was generally well-received as an economical and practical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the petrol-powered Corsa E models, the diesel variant offered significantly better fuel economy, but at a higher purchase price. Against competitors like the Ford Fiesta EcoBoost and Volkswagen Polo TDI, the Corsa E 1.3 CDTI offered a competitive fuel economy figure, but its interior quality and driving dynamics were often considered slightly inferior. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if the vehicle was primarily used for short journeys.
Legacy
The Opel Corsa E 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (75 hp) remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. The B13DTC engine is generally considered to be durable and reliable, provided it has been properly maintained. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and the cost of replacing common wear items. The Corsa E’s affordability and fuel efficiency continue to make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and economical small car. While not a performance icon, this variant played a significant role in offering a fuel-efficient diesel option within the popular Corsa E range.
