The Opel Corsa E 5-door 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG, produced between April 2015 and April 2018, represents an entry-level offering within the fifth generation of the Opel Corsa (E). Positioned as a fuel-efficient and affordable option, this variant catered to buyers seeking a practical hatchback with the added flexibility of LPG conversion. It was a key model for Opel in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Polo, Ford Fiesta, and Renault Clio. The Corsa E itself was built on the General Motors Gamma II platform, shared with other models like the Chevrolet Trax and Buick Encore.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Corsa |
| Generation | Corsa E 5-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 | 5 |
| 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 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp, 80.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm, 115.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 4000 rpm (95.88 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Torque (LPG) | 124 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B14XEL |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1124 kg (2478 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1615 kg (3560.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 491 kg (1082.47 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%) | 800 kg (1763.7 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 | 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 |
| 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 heart of this Corsa variant is the 1.4-liter (1398 cc) B14XEL inline-four cylinder engine. This engine belongs to Opel’s ECOTEC family, known for its focus on fuel efficiency. The B14XEL utilizes a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 10.5:1. It produces 90 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 130 Nm (95.88 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. When running on LPG, the torque output slightly decreases to 124 Nm. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end torque for everyday drivability. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The LPG conversion is typically a third-party installation, utilizing a vapor-phase system that mixes LPG with air before entering the intake manifold.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4L 90 hp Corsa E with a manual transmission delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 13.9 seconds, and top speed is around 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright speed. Compared to higher-output Corsa E models, such as those with the 1.0 Turbo (115 hp) or the 1.4 Turbo (100 hp), this variant feels noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lower power output also contributes to better fuel economy. The LPG system provides a cost-effective alternative fuel source, but may result in a slight reduction in power and fuel efficiency compared to running solely on gasoline.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG typically represented the base trim level for the Corsa E. Standard equipment generally included power steering, ABS, front airbags, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and parking sensors. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Enjoy’ and ‘Cosmo’ offered more luxurious features like climate control, upgraded upholstery, and additional safety equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The Corsa E utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. The front brakes are disc brakes, while the rear brakes are typically disc brakes on most variants, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Corsa E 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG was generally well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, particularly with the availability of LPG. However, its performance was often criticized as being underwhelming, especially when compared to more powerful rivals. Compared to the 1.0 Turbo variant, the 1.4 LPG offered lower performance but a potentially lower fuel cost per mile, depending on LPG and gasoline prices. The 1.4 LPG was aimed at budget-conscious buyers who prioritized fuel economy and practicality over sporty performance.
Legacy
The B14XEL engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, has proven to be relatively reliable. Common issues are typically related to the LPG conversion system, such as regulator failures or leaks, rather than the engine itself. In the used car market, the Corsa E 1.4 ECOTEC (90 hp) LPG remains an affordable option for those seeking a small, economical hatchback. Its LPG conversion can be a significant benefit for drivers who frequently cover long distances, offering substantial fuel savings. However, potential buyers should ensure that the LPG system has been properly maintained and inspected.
