The Opel Astra H 1.9 CDTI, produced between 2004 and 2006, represented a significant offering in the European compact car market. This variant, equipped with the Z19DTH engine producing 150 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the Astra H lineup, appealing to drivers seeking a balance between fuel efficiency and performance. It was a key component of the Astra H generation (2004-2009), built on the GM Delta platform, and aimed to compete with established rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 307. The 1.9 CDTI was particularly popular in Europe, where diesel engines held a larger market share than in North America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 208 km/h (129.25 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1393 kg (3071.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 492 kg (1084.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1330 l (46.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4249 mm (167.28 in.) |
| Width | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2033 mm (80.04 in.) |
| Height | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2614 mm (102.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 871 mm (34.29 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 764 mm (30.08 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra H 1.9 CDTI was the Z19DTH engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was a product of Fiat’s JTD (Jet Turbo Diesel) technology, licensed to Opel/Vauxhall. It featured a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The Z19DTH utilized a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to boost power output and enhance throttle response. The engine also incorporated a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased performance. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design contributed to its reputation for reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.9 CDTI with the six-speed manual transmission offered a respectable driving experience. While not a sports car, it provided ample torque – 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) – from low engine speeds, making it well-suited for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 8.9 seconds, which was competitive for its class. The six-speed gearbox allowed for efficient cruising at highway speeds, keeping engine revs low and contributing to good fuel economy. Compared to the lower-powered 1.7 CDTI variants, the 1.9 CDTI offered a noticeable performance improvement. However, it didn’t match the outright speed of the more expensive petrol-powered Astra H models, such as those equipped with the 2.2-liter direct injection engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra H 1.9 CDTI was typically offered in mid-range trim levels, such as Enjoy or Sport. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, an audio system with CD player, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior upholstery. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was functional and easy to use, although some critics found the design somewhat bland.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling. The Astra H’s chassis was well-balanced, contributing to its predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Astra H 1.9 CDTI was well-received by automotive critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, strong torque output, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy compared to some of its rivals. Compared to the petrol-powered Astra H models, the 1.9 CDTI offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who covered long distances. In terms of reliability, the Z19DTH engine proved to be generally robust, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors over time.
Legacy
The Opel Astra H 1.9 CDTI remains a relatively common sight on European roads today. The Z19DTH engine, while no longer in production, has a reputation for being durable and relatively easy to maintain. Used examples are generally affordable, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors, and should ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. The Astra H 1.9 CDTI represents a solid and practical choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and reliability.
