Opel Adam 1,0T
0-100 km/h: 10,48 seconds Top speed: 196 km/h Power: 85 kw Torque: 170 N.m CO2: 119 g/km Fuel consumption: 6,12 L/100 km (fuel index)
The Opel brand has been through some difficult times since the heydays of the 1990s al‐ though it has always provided some noteworthy products. One of these was the brand-new Adam, named after founder Adam Opel and introduced in 2015.
Knowing that a stylish, customisable package would be needed to take on the likes of the Fiat and Mini, a variety of standard and optional accessories could be specified. Many will have two-tone paintwork with model names such as Jam, Glam and Rocks.
The engine we’ve chosen is an excellent 85 kw 998 cm3, three-cylinder turbo mated with a six-speed manual gearbox. This is a big improvement on the average Opel gearbox and is slick. The result is a smooth and willing powertrain that is great fun to use. Note the entrylevel model, simply called “1,4”, is a four-cylinder, naturally aspirated unit with 74 kw. The fuel consumption is excellent but the fuel tank is small at 35 litres.
Our original test car from 2015 was the Glam model which included a roof lining with small lights resembling stars. At no extra cost, this feature could be swapped for a panor‐ amic glass roof. A flagship Rocks version was offered late in 2015 which had a sliding canvas roof section and increased ground clearance. If you’re after more power, there is yet another version: the S uses a four-pot 1,4-litre turbo engine producing 110 kw and 220 N.m of torque.
Ride quality is good – better with sub-18-inch wheels – and the steering has two weighting settings but remains rather lifeless. The boot is perhaps the only letdown of the Adam. At 136 litres, it is not ideal for a family (even the Fiat 500’s is bigger) and the spare wheel is a space-saver.
The three-year/60 000 km service plan will be on its way out although you may be able to benefit from the last of these before deciding what your future maintenance options are. Parts prices are very keen, too. The 1,0-litre engine uses a camchain so there should be no major expenses there. 4 seats, 136/544 L 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC R7 860 April 2015 (1,0T Glam)