Used Vauxhall Adam Under £5,000 for Sale in the UK
25 under £5,000 Vauxhall Adam cars available from independent UK dealers on Carslink.ai. Years range from 2013 to 2017.
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.
| Model Year | Typical Price Range (GBP) |
|---|---|
| 2013-2015 | £3,000 - £6,000 |
| 2016-2018 | £5,000 - £8,000 |
| 2019-2020 | £7,000 - £10,000 |
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.
Latest Listings
2013 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.4 16v GLAM Euro 5 3dr £3,795, 81,020 miles, Petrol, Manual
2014 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.2 16v JAM £3,995, 52,000 miles, Petrol, Manual
2017 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.4 i SLAM £4,857, 75,362 miles, Petrol, Manual
2017 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.2i GLAM Euro 6 3dr £4,680, 86,530 miles, Petrol, Manual
2015 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.2 i JAM £3,999, 71,500 miles, Petrol, Manual
2015 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.2 16v JAM £3,495, 123,106 miles, Petrol, Manual
2015 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.2 16v JAM £3,995, 78,251 miles, Petrol, Manual
2014 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.4 16v GLAM £3,495, 88,500 miles, Petrol, Manual
2016 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.2 i ecoFLEX ENERGISED £4,495, 85,000 miles, Petrol, Manual
2014 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.2 16v JAM £4,495, 61,000 miles, Petrol, Manual
2015 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.4i Turbo S Manual 5Spd Euro 6 (s/s) 3dr £4,095, 97,000 miles, Petrol, Manual
2014 VAUXHALL ADAM 1.4 16v JAM £3,995, 73,000 miles, Petrol, Manual
Frequently asked questions
What can I expect from a used Vauxhall Adam under £5,000?
Used Vauxhall Adam stock under £5,000 typically means older model years, higher mileage, or earlier trim levels. Prioritise full service history, recent MOT with no advisories, and cars with one or two previous keepers. Avoid examples with lapsed cambelt intervals or unresolved manufacturer recalls. Carslink.ai currently lists 25 under £5,000 Vauxhall Adams from independent UK dealers.
Is the Vauxhall Adam a reliable used car?
Reliability of the Vauxhall Adam depends on year, mileage and service history. Check independent owner reviews and the specific listing's service history before buying. Carslink.ai links you directly to the dealer for full vehicle history checks.
What should I check before buying a used Vauxhall Adam?
Before buying a used Vauxhall Adam, check the service history, MOT record, mileage, previous owners and any outstanding finance. Inspect the vehicle in person where possible and confirm details directly with the dealer listed.
How much does a used Vauxhall Adam cost in the UK?
Current Carslink.ai listings range from £100 to £4,995, with an average of around £3,540.
What MPG does the Vauxhall Adam achieve?
MPG varies by engine and trim. Check the specific listing for the WLTP figure on the version you are considering.
Where can I find a used Vauxhall Adam near me?
Carslink.ai shows current Vauxhall Adam stock from independent UK dealers across 6 major UK cities. Use the search to filter by location.
Search all Vauxhall Adam cars (Under £5,000)
Legal Disclaimer: All listings on Carslink.ai are sourced directly from dealer stock feeds. Always verify listing details, prices, and vehicle condition directly with the seller before purchasing.