What if a tiny city car could feel premium, playful, and totally customizable? The Opel Adam nails that vibe as a chic supermini packed with flair and clever details. Launched in 2013 and discontinued around 2019, this bold little hatchback (also sold as Vauxhall Adam) stands out with its retro-modern looks, personalization options, and surprisingly upscale cabin for its size.
Think of it as a fashion-forward runabout that turns heads in tight streets while offering decent practicality for solo drivers or couples. Used examples remain popular today thanks to low prices and engaging drive. Let’s break down why the Opel Adam still captivates.
Eye-Catching Style: Retro Charm Meets Modern Edge
The Opel Adam boasts a distinctive, almost cute exterior with rounded lines, a short bonnet, and bold chrome accents. Its upright stance and wide track give it a confident planted look despite the compact 3.7-meter length. Customizable roof colors, mirror caps, and wheel designs let owners create truly unique builds.
First impressions scream personality – it’s fun without trying too hard. The Opel Adam S variant amps up aggression with sportier bumpers, larger alloys, and a subtle rear spoiler for extra presence.
Opel Adam Interior: Premium Feel in a Small Package
Slide into the Opel Adam interior, and you’ll notice surprising quality for a city car. Soft-touch materials, optional leather accents, and clever color combos create an upscale atmosphere. The driving position feels sporty yet comfortable with good visibility.
Space suits two adults plus occasional rear passengers – legroom stays tight back there. Boot capacity hits around 170-260 liters with seats up or folded. Infotainment includes touchscreen options with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto in later models, plus intuitive controls that keep things simple.
Lively Drive: Fun Engines and Nimble Handling
The Opel Adam 1.4 specs deliver solid performance with naturally aspirated versions offering 85-100 horsepower and around 130 Nm torque. Hit the accelerator, and you’ll feel eager response in town, though it’s no rocket. The six-speed manual shifts smoothly for confident overtaking.
The Opel Adam S ups the ante with a 1.4 turbo pushing 150 horsepower and 220 Nm – 0-100 km/h in about 8.5 seconds feels properly quick for its size. Handling shines with sharp steering and grippy chassis, making twisty roads enjoyable. Ride comfort stays firm but composed over urban bumps.
For relaxed cruising, the Opel Adam automatic (Easytronic or later variants) offers smooth shifts without much drama.
Thrifty on Fuel: Real-World Economy That Pleases
Fuel efficiency impresses across the range. The 1.4 petrol achieves real-world figures around 45-50 mpg in mixed driving, with careful use pushing toward 55 mpg. Even the punchier Adam S manages about 35-40 mpg when driven spiritedly.
Small 38-liter tank still delivers decent range for city hops. Buyers expect low running costs, especially compared to thirstier rivals.
Safety and Tech: Solid Basics With Some Modern Touches
The Opel Adam scored four stars in Euro NCAP tests, with good adult and child protection scores. Standard kit includes multiple airbags, stability control, and ISOFIX points. Higher trims add parking sensors, rearview camera, and cruise control.
Tech feels dated now but includes Bluetooth, USB ports, and optional heated seats/steering wheel. Is the Opel Adam reliable? Owner reports suggest yes for most examples, though some note minor electrical niggles or timing chain wear if neglected.
Trim Options and Value: Affordable Used Bargains
Used Opel Adam price starts low in 2026, often €5,000-€10,000 for clean examples depending on mileage and spec. Base Jam or Glam trims cover essentials like air conditioning and alloys.
Slam or S models bring sportier kit and better value for enthusiasts. Personalization packs add flair without huge premiums.
Hits and Misses: Balanced Real Talk
- Pros:
- Standout styling with huge customization options
- Premium-feeling interior for a city car
- Fun, agile handling especially in Adam S
- Efficient engines and low ownership costs
- Cons:
- Tight rear space limits family use
- Some reliability concerns with turbo models
- Firm ride over rough roads
- Boot space modest for shopping runs
Facing Rivals: Where It Stands Out
Have you ever wondered how the Opel Adam compares to key competitors? It battles the Fiat 500 with more space and refinement but less retro charm. The Mini Cooper brings premium badge appeal, while the Adam counters with better value and similar fun factor.
The Citroen C1 or Toyota Aygo feel more basic. For tiny runabouts, compare it to the practical Opel Agila. Need serious work capacity? Explore the tough Opel Movano.
Ideal Drivers: Who Fits Behind the Wheel?
The Opel Adam suits young professionals or urban singles craving style and easy parking. Couples love the personalization and premium vibe for date nights or city errands. Enthusiasts gravitate to the Adam S for pocket-rocket thrills.
If you’re after a no-fuss commuter with character, this hidden gem delivers.
Wrapping Up: Worthy Used City Car?
The Opel Adam shines with bold design, engaging drive, and surprising quality in a tiny package. Minor space and reliability quirks exist, but its charm and value endure on the used market.
Whether standard or Opel Adam S, it brings joy to daily drives. Curious? Check this honest Opel Adam owner review or hunt a well-kept example today. Your stylish city companion awaits.
Soban Arshad is a car lover and founder of RoadLancer.com, sharing news, reviews, and trends from the automotive world.