Opel Tigra A 1.4 16V (90 Hp) Automatic

The Opel Tigra A 1.4 16V (90 Hp) Automatic: A Compact European Coupe

The Opel Tigra A, a distinctive 2+2 compact coupe, emerged onto the European automotive scene in November 1994, offering a blend of sporty aesthetics and accessible performance. Based on the successful Opel Corsa B platform, the Tigra A was Opel’s answer to a growing demand for small, stylish, and affordable coupes. This particular variant, the 1.4 16V (90 Hp) Automatic, represented a practical and comfortable option within the Tigra lineup, catering to drivers seeking ease of use in urban environments without sacrificing the car’s unique visual appeal. Produced until June 2000, the Tigra A carved out a niche for itself as a fun, entry-level coupe, primarily in its native European market, where it was known for its youthful spirit and eye-catching design.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Opel Tigra A

Powering the Opel Tigra A 1.4 16V Automatic is a naturally aspirated 1.4-liter (1389 cm³ or 84.76 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder engine, designated by the code X14XE. This DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) engine features 16 valves (four per cylinder), a common configuration for enhancing efficiency and power output in compact engines of the era. With a compression ratio of 10:1 and a multi-port manifold injection system, the engine was designed to deliver a smooth and reliable power delivery using petrol (gasoline) fuel.

The engine produces a respectable 90 horsepower (Hp) at 6000 rpm, translating to a power per liter figure of 64.8 Hp/l. Torque peaks at 125 Nm (92.2 lb.-ft.) at 4000 rpm, providing adequate pulling power for a vehicle of its size and weight. The powertrain architecture is front-transverse, driving the front wheels, a typical layout for compact cars prioritizing interior space and manufacturing efficiency. This particular Tigra A variant is equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission, which, while offering convenience, does impact performance compared to manual gearbox options. The 0 to 60 mph acceleration is achieved in a measured 13.3 seconds, with a top speed reaching 113.09 mph (182 km/h). While not a performance powerhouse, the Tigra A 1.4 16V Automatic provided a comfortable and effortless driving experience, particularly suited for daily commuting and relaxed cruising.

Fuel economy figures for the 1.4 16V Automatic were competitive for its time. In urban driving, it consumed approximately 11.4 liters per 100 kilometers (20.6 US mpg). On the extra-urban cycle, this improved significantly to 6.4 liters per 100 kilometers (36.8 US mpg). The combined fuel consumption stood at 8.4 liters per 100 kilometers (28 US mpg), offering a reasonable balance of performance and efficiency for its segment.

Design and Features: A Distinctive Coupe Aesthetic

The Opel Tigra A’s most striking feature was undoubtedly its design. As a 2-door, 4-seat coupe, it broke away from the more conservative styling of its Corsa sibling. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile, characterized by a steeply raked windshield, a flowing roofline that tapered towards the rear, and distinctive large glass hatch, gave it a unique and sporty appearance. The design was largely influenced by the 1993 Tigra concept car, maintaining much of its futuristic appeal for a production model.

Measuring 154.41 inches (3922 mm) in length, 63.15 inches (1604 mm) in width, and 52.76 inches (1340 mm) in height, the Tigra A was undeniably compact. Its wheelbase of 95.63 inches (2429 mm) contributed to its nimble handling and short overhangs. Despite its coupe styling, the Tigra A offered practical elements. The trunk (boot) space ranged from 7.59 cubic feet (215 liters) with the rear seats up, expanding to a more useful 15.01 cubic feet (425 liters) when the rear seats were folded, allowing for reasonable cargo versatility for a car of its type.

Inside, the Tigra A shared many components with the Corsa B, ensuring familiar ergonomics and straightforward controls. Features for the era included power steering (hydraulic), disc brakes at the front, and drum brakes at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The car rode on 185/55 R15 tires mounted on 15-inch wheel rims, providing a balance of grip and ride comfort. The suspension setup comprised coil springs at the front and a trailing arm system at the rear, tuned for a compliant yet engaging ride quality on European roads.

Technical Specifications: Opel Tigra A 1.4 16V (90 Hp) Automatic

Legacy and Market Impact of the Opel Tigra A

The Opel Tigra A entered a segment that, while not massive, held significant appeal for younger buyers and those looking for a second, more stylish car. Its primary market was Europe, where it competed with other small coupes like the Ford Puma (which arrived later in 1997 and offered a more dynamic driving experience), the Renault Megane Coupe, and various other niche offerings. The Tigra’s unique selling proposition was its eye-catching design, which translated well from concept to production, making it stand out in traffic.

Despite sharing its underpinnings with the humble Corsa, the Tigra managed to create its own identity. Its compact dimensions and light curb weight of 2160.53 lbs (980 kg) contributed to agile handling, making it a fun car to drive, especially with the more engaging manual transmission options. The 1.4 16V Automatic, while less performance-oriented, offered a relaxed driving style that appealed to a broader audience who valued convenience and style over outright speed.

The Tigra A’s legacy is that of an accessible, stylish coupe that brought a touch of flair to the mainstream compact car market. It proved that a mass-market brand like Opel could produce a car with strong emotional appeal. While it wasn’t a sales phenomenon in the vein of the Corsa, it achieved its goal of attracting a specific demographic and enhancing Opel’s brand image with a youthful, sporty offering. Today, the Opel Tigra A holds a certain nostalgic value, particularly among enthusiasts of 1990s European cars, appreciated for its distinctive design and its role as an early example of a compact, affordable coupe.