Opel’s Adam has been around since the beginning of 2015. Looking at the car today, one realises how modern it was for its time, in terms of styling and equipment.
Initially the Adam was launched with a choice of a 1,4-litre naturally-aspirated engine, or with a 999 cc (1,0-litre) 3-cylinder. It is this engine that still does duty in the sole-surviving Adam model today, the Jam, and it develops a healthy 85 kW and 170 Nm.
Whether you are buying a new or a used Opel Adam, there are a few things you need to note before embarking on a test drive. The Adam hasn’t changed much at all since launch, although it should be noted that the 1,4-litre model is no longer available new. For this reason, if you are buying a used example, we would probably recommend going for the 1,0-litre model. It’s performance will be a whole lot more satisfying than the 1,4 version.
AutoTrader currently lists 106 examples of New and used Opel Adam models for sale. Perusing our “for sale” listings, it will be noted that Adams hold their re-sale value well. A new example of the Opel Adam Jam sells for R283 000.
Opel Adam test-drive check-list
1.The car only comes in 3-door form. There have never been any 5-door Adams built.
2.The Adam is a small car. It can take four people, but it has a small boot at 170 litres, so it is not going to double as a family-holiday car.
3.The Opel Adam is built in Germany. It features a very high-class build, with excellent materials used both inside and out.
4.The Adam comes with a high level of passive safety features for a small car. It boasts 6 airbags, ISOFIX child seat mountings at the rear and blind sport warning for lane-changing assistance.
5.The Adam features not only ABS braking, but brake assist (in an emergency full braking pressure is automatically applied) and stability control. It also has park sensors front and rear.
6.The steering column is adjustable for both rake and reach.
7.The performance is very good for a 1,0-litre. It will sprint to 100 km/h in less than 10 seconds and has a top speed of 196 km/h
8.Fuel consumption is claimed at an average of just 4,7 litres/100 km. If you drive it enthusiastically this will rise to the 6,5-7,0 litres/100 km level, but hefty fuel bills are never going to be a problem with the Opel Adam.
9.The little car still attracts a lot of attention because of its cute styling and high levels of finishes that include large-sized alloy wheels.
10.The Opel Adam is named after the founder of Opel. Adam Opel launched his company in Germany in 1862, long before the motorcar was invented!
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