The Opel Adam S addssome firepower to the Opel Adam range. Packing a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, this feisty little number has just arrived in South Africa, albeit in limited numbers.

The Opel Adam has proven to be quite the hit among the younger market thanks to its peppy 1.0-litre engine and cute looks. The range was expanded to include the Adam Rocks (click here to read a review of the model), a pimped up, two-tone city slicker, but the range lacked a model with a performance bent. Introducing the Opel Adam S, the new range topper and performance variant of the Adam family.

Packing a punch

Thanks to the 110 kW and 220 Nm produced by itswell-known 1.4-litre turbocharged Ecotec engine, this little Opel Adam S is claimed to hit 100kph from standstill in 8.5 seconds and will go on to a top speed of 210 kph. With brakes sourced from Opel's OPC division, stopping prowess should be impressive too. There are some changes under the skin as well, with revised suspension and steering settings to cope with the S's extra power and performance. It's not all about performance either, as the Adam S is said to return just 5.9L/100km in terms of fuel consumption.

The racy looks

The Opel Adam S comes in three vivid colour combinations with equally amusing names. How doesSaturday White Fever, Shiny Rock and Red ‘n’ Roll grab you? There are 18-inch "Propeller" wheelswith red brake callipers clearly visible, as well as a suitably meaty exhaust tip. The rear wing is not just for show… Opel claimsit produces downforce that will keep the car stable at higher speeds.

“The Opel ADAM S has been designed and engineered for people who want to enjoy a sporty driving experience in a car with a unique and individual look. To achieve this, Opel engineers came up with a powertrain that would give its best across a broad rev range. With the strong inherent torque characteristics – maximum torque in on tap from 3000 rpm – and the use of a six-speed gearbox, the driver will always enjoy instant response,” said Brian Olson, Vice President Vehicle Sales and Marketing at GM South Africa.

Cabin and features

The cabin gets the full race treatment and there are splashes of red, which means red detailing on the gear shift lever, steering wheel and the handbrake. Best of all are the Recaro sport seats thatprovide great support when the Adam S is being driving enthusiastically. The base car is essentially an Opel Adam Jam, which means you get a generous helping of standard specification, including climate control, height and reach adjustable steering column, electric windows, cruise control and a split/foldable rear seat for added practicality. You also getAdvanced Park Assist, Side Blind Spot Alert, Intellilink and Siri Eyes Free with the package.

Pricing and availability

Here's the kicker. Opel South Africa is only bringing in 50 of these hotter Adams and they're not cheap. Then again, you're likely to geta very special vehicle. The Opel Adam S costs R330 000 and comes with astandard 5-year/120 000 km warranty, roadside assistance, and 3-year/60 000 kmservice plan.

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