The SEAT Malaga (023A) 1.7 D is a compact sedan produced by the Spanish automobile manufacturer SEAT between 1986 and 1991. Positioned as an affordable and practical family car, the Malaga was primarily sold in European markets, particularly Spain, where SEAT held a significant domestic presence. It represented SEAT’s attempt to offer a modern, albeit basic, sedan option in a segment dominated by established manufacturers. The 1.7 D variant, equipped with a diesel engine producing 55 horsepower, was a popular choice for its fuel efficiency and durability, catering to drivers prioritizing economy over outright performance.
SEAT Malaga (023A) 1.7 D: A Detailed Overview
The Malaga occupied a crucial role in SEAT’s lineup during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Before its acquisition by the Volkswagen Group in 1986, SEAT operated under the control of the Spanish government and relied heavily on licensed designs from Fiat. The Malaga, while incorporating some Fiat-derived elements, represented a step towards greater independence in design and engineering. It was based on the SEAT Ronda, a hatchback, and shared many of its mechanical components. The Malaga aimed to provide a more traditional sedan body style to appeal to a broader customer base.
Engine & Performance
The 1.7 D variant of the SEAT Malaga is powered by a 1.7-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the 022A.5000. This engine produces 55 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 98 Nm (72.28 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the diesel engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and was renowned for its fuel economy. The engine features a precombustion chamber injection system, a common technology for diesel engines of that era, and a compression ratio of 20:1. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 21.9 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 20.8 seconds. The top speed is rated at 148 km/h (91.96 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 18.5 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 10.4 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The SEAT Malaga is a four-door, five-seater sedan with a relatively simple and functional design. Its styling reflects the automotive trends of the mid-1980s, characterized by boxy shapes and a focus on practicality. The interior is basic but offers sufficient space for passengers and luggage. The trunk capacity is a respectable 510 liters (18.01 cubic feet). Safety features were limited by the standards of the time, with the Malaga typically equipped with only basic features like seatbelts. The Malaga’s suspension consists of coil springs in the front and leaf springs in the rear, providing a comfortable, if somewhat unsophisticated, ride. Braking is handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Some models were equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a relatively advanced feature for a vehicle in this class during the late 1980s. The steering system is a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion, offering improved maneuverability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SEAT |
| Model | Malaga |
| Generation | Malaga (023A) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 D (55 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1986 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 21.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 21.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 20.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 148 km/h (91.96 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 55 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 32.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 98 Nm @ 3000 rpm (72.28 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 022A.5000 |
| Engine displacement | 1714 cm3 (104.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.2 mm (3.12 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 20:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1015 kg (2237.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 435 kg (959.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4275 mm (168.31 in.) |
| Width | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Height | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2445 mm (96.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (optional) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 165/65 SR14 |
The SEAT Malaga 1.7 D, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as a dependable and economical option for European drivers during its production run. It represents a significant chapter in SEAT’s history, bridging the gap between its reliance on licensed designs and its eventual integration into the Volkswagen Group.
