2016 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.4 I Glam

Why Buy the Vauxhall Adam?

The Vauxhall Adam, though no longer in production, remains a characterful and stylish small car that offers a compelling proposition for those seeking a city-friendly runabout with a distinct personality. Launched in 2013, it was Vauxhall's answer to rivals like the Mini and Fiat 500, aiming to capture the hearts of buyers who prioritise style and customisation over outright practicality.

Its diminutive size makes it an excellent choice for urban environments. Navigating tight city streets, squeezing into compact parking spaces, and zipping through traffic are all made effortless by the Adam's compact dimensions and agile handling. The ride quality, while firm enough to feel sporty, is generally well-judged for city driving, absorbing imperfections without being overly jarring.

The Adam's standout feature is undoubtedly its customisation potential. Vauxhall offered a vast array of colour combinations, interior trims, and even optional "starlight" headliners, allowing owners to truly personalise their vehicle. This made it a popular choice for younger drivers and those looking for something a bit different from the norm.

Despite its compact footprint, the interior offers a surprisingly upmarket feel for a car in this segment. Materials are generally good quality, and the dashboard is logically laid out. While the rear seats are best suited for occasional use or small children, the front occupants benefit from a good amount of space and comfortable seating.

UK Price Guide (GBP)

As the Adam is no longer sold new, prices are for used examples. Expect prices to vary significantly based on mileage, condition, and specification.

Specifications

The Vauxhall Adam was available with a range of petrol engines:

• 1.2i (70hp): Aimed at economy-conscious city drivers.
• 1.4i (87hp): A slightly more potent option for a bit more flexibility.
• 1.0i Turbo EcoFLEX (115hp): A more energetic and efficient turbocharged option.
• 1.4 Turbo (150hp): Found in the Adam S, offering a sportier performance.

All models typically came with a 5-speed or 6-speed manual gearbox, though some later automatics were available.

Common Issues

While generally reliable, some common issues to look out for include:

• Infotainment system glitches: The IntelliLink system can sometimes be a bit temperamental.
• Minor electrical faults: Look out for warning lights or non-functioning features.
• Clutch wear: Particularly on higher mileage city cars, check the clutch operation.
• Suspension noise: Listen for any knocks or rattles over bumps.

It’s always advisable to check service history and ideally have a pre-purchase inspection.

Running Costs

The Adam's running costs are generally very reasonable. Its small, economical engines mean lower fuel bills, especially for the 1.0 Turbo EcoFLEX.

• Fuel Economy: Expect between 45-60mpg depending on engine and driving style.
• Insurance: Typically falls into lower insurance groups, making it affordable for younger drivers.
• Road Tax: Governed by CO2 emissions, many models fall into lower tax bands.
• Servicing: Standard servicing costs are comparable to other small Vauxhalls.

Variants

The Vauxhall Adam came in several trims, offering increasing levels of equipment and styling:

• Jam: The entry-level model, focusing on core features and customisation.
• Glam: Added more premium touches and comfort features.
• Slam: The sportier variant with a more aggressive body kit and enhanced suspension.
• Rocks: Featured a raised ride height and more rugged styling cues, akin to a mini-SUV.
• Adam S: The performance flagship with a significantly more powerful engine and sportier tuning.

Beyond these, Vauxhall offered numerous special editions and styling packs, further enhancing the Adam’s appeal as a highly customisable compact car.