English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
Opel Adam: city hatchback, engines and trims
Opel Adam — a stylish three-door city hatchback produced from 2012 to 2019 and known for its wide range of customization options. In this article, we review the Jam, Glam, and Slam trims, engines, and what to check before buying a used Adam.
Adam in brief
The Adam was designed as a youthful, stylish city car that you can tailor to your taste: the choice of colours, wheels, roof, and interior combinations was very wide. It has three doors and four seats.
As well as the standard Adam, there were the Adam Rocks (a raised version with a removable roof) and the sporty Adam S. In the used market, this is a fairly rare and distinctive choice in the small car class.
Which version to choose
During its production run, the Adam didn't change much: new engines and multimedia systems arrived over time. Newer cars usually have more modern equipment, including the IntelliLink multimedia system.
If you want a livelier drive, opt for an Adam with a turbo engine. If the lowest price is most important, a standard naturally aspirated engine will do, but it's less lively.
Engines and gearboxes
Petrol engines — 1.2 and 1.4 naturally aspirated (around 70 and 87–100 hp), 1.0 turbo (around 90 and 115 hp) and 1.4 turbo in the sporty Adam S (around 150 hp). There was no diesel variant.
Gearboxes — manual (5 or 6-speed), and some versions were offered with the robotised Easytronic. Before buying, test drive it for a few dozen minutes.
What to check when buying a used Adam
Check the body condition and paint, especially smaller details and interior trim elements, which may be non-standard due to customization. Also, ensure that all screens and multimedia functions work.
Assess the engine performance and service history, especially for turbo engines. Check the suspension, brakes, and tire wear, as light cars are often used in the city for short trips.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Jam
2012–2019The base but well-equipped Adam trim.
- Often — air conditioning
- Often — sound system with inputs
- Often — custom color and trim combinations
Glam
2012–2019A version aimed at comfort and style.
- Often — lightweight alloy wheels
- Often — additional comfort features
- More luxurious interior trim
Slam
2012–2019A sportier, more distinctive look.
- Often — sportier details
- Often — larger wheels
- Often — a more striking interior design
Trim comparison
| Jam | Glam | Slam | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For daily city use | For comfort and style | For a striking appearance |
| Wheels (usually) | 15–16 in. | 16–17 in. | 17–18 in. |
| Interior | More basic | More luxurious | Sportier |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ |
Most buyers will prefer the Jam or Glam. Slam is worth considering if you want a sportier look, but the Adam S is for true sportiness.
Pros
- Distinctive and stylish design
- Wide range of customisation options
- Comfortable and easy city car
- Wide range of engine choices
Cons
- Only three doors and a cramped rear seat
- Small boot
- Used prices often higher than simpler rivals
Frequently asked questions
Is the Opel Adam suitable for a family?
Rarely: it has only three doors and a cramped rear seat. Best suited to one or two people in the city.
What's the difference between Jam, Glam, and Slam?
It comes with the base trim, the Glam highlights comfort and elegance, while the Slam offers a sportier look.
Which engine should you choose?
In the city, a 1.2 or 1.4 will do, but the 1.0 turbo is livelier and more economical. Before buying, check the service history.
Updated 2026-10-17 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
