Premier 118 1.2 (53 Hp)

The Premier 118 1.2, producing 53 horsepower, was a subcompact sedan manufactured by Premier from 1986 to 2001. It represented the entry-level offering within the Premier 118 range, positioned below higher-specification models with larger engines. The 118 series was significant as one of Premier’s core models during a period of growing automotive demand, aiming to provide affordable and practical transportation to a broad customer base. The vehicle was built on a rear-wheel drive platform, a configuration becoming less common in the global automotive market during its production run.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Premier 118 1.2 was its 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated by its 53 horsepower output. This engine, displacing 1172 cm³ (71.52 cubic inches), featured a relatively simple design. It employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a carburetor, a technology prevalent in the 1980s and early 1990s, but increasingly superseded by fuel injection systems. The engine’s bore and stroke measured 73mm x 70mm, resulting in a compression ratio of 9:1. The engine was naturally aspirated, meaning it did not utilize a turbocharger or supercharger to force air into the cylinders.

The Premier 118 1.2 was exclusively offered with a four-speed manual transmission. This transmission was a conventional design, sending power to the rear wheels. The choice of a manual transmission was typical for entry-level vehicles of this era, prioritizing affordability and simplicity over driver convenience.

Performance Characteristics

The 1.2-liter engine produced 53 hp at 5600 rpm and 79 Nm (58.27 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. This resulted in a modest power-to-weight ratio of 17 kg/hp. The vehicle’s performance was geared towards fuel efficiency and urban driving rather than outright speed. Acceleration was slow, and the car reached a maximum speed of 135 km/h (83.89 mph). The four-speed manual transmission offered relatively widely spaced gear ratios, requiring frequent shifting to maintain optimal engine speed. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, providing usable power across a narrow rpm range, but it lacked the responsiveness of larger or more modern engines.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Premier 118 1.2 was designed as a no-frills, economical vehicle. Standard equipment was basic, typically including cloth upholstery, vinyl floor covering, and minimal exterior trim. The dashboard was functional, featuring a simple instrument cluster with speedometer, fuel gauge, and temperature indicator. Options were limited, but could include a basic radio, upgraded seat fabric, and occasionally, hubcaps. The interior space was adequate for four passengers, but rear legroom was limited. The trunk offered a usable 385 liters (13.6 cubic feet) of cargo space.

Chassis & Braking

The Premier 118 1.2 utilized a body-on-frame construction, a design common in older vehicles. The front suspension consisted of coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a rigid axle setup. This suspension configuration prioritized durability and simplicity over ride comfort and handling precision. The braking system featured drum brakes on all four wheels. The absence of power assistance meant that braking required a significant amount of pedal effort. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard equipment, and was rarely offered as an option on this base model.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Premier 118 1.2 was generally viewed as a basic, affordable transportation solution. Critics acknowledged its low price point but often criticized its lack of refinement, slow performance, and outdated technology. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with urban consumption rated at 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) and extra-urban consumption at 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg). Compared to other models in the Premier 118 lineup, the 1.2-liter version offered the lowest price and best fuel economy, but at the expense of performance and features. Higher-specification 118 models with larger engines provided significantly improved acceleration and a more comfortable driving experience, but at a higher cost. Reliability was generally considered average for the period, with the carburetor being a potential source of maintenance issues.

Technical Specifications

Legacy

The Premier 118 1.2, while not a particularly sophisticated vehicle, served as an important entry point into the Premier brand for many buyers. The 1.2-liter engine, while simple, proved to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. Today, surviving examples of the Premier 118 1.2 are relatively rare and are primarily sought after by collectors and enthusiasts interested in classic automobiles. The carburetor and basic mechanical components can require regular attention, but spare parts are generally available. The vehicle’s affordability and simplicity continue to appeal to those seeking a classic driving experience. Its status in the used car market is that of a niche vehicle, valued more for its historical significance than its performance or features.