The Opel Astra H TwinTop 1.9 CDTI, produced between May 2006 and October 2010, represents a compelling blend of open-air motoring and diesel efficiency within the broader Astra H range. This variant, a coupe-cabriolet, occupied a mid-range position in the TwinTop lineup, offering a balance between performance and economy. It was primarily marketed in Europe, capitalizing on the popularity of retractable hardtop convertibles. The TwinTop utilized the GM Delta platform (Astra H), known for its relatively lightweight construction and adaptable chassis. This specific 1.9 CDTI engine and manual transmission combination aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a practical yet enjoyable convertible experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H TwinTop |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | May, 2006 |
| End of production | October, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe – Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.5 Hp/l |
| 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 | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1513 kg (3335.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1983 kg (4371.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 205 l (7.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4476 mm (176.22 in.) |
| Width | 1759 mm (69.25 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2021 mm (79.57 in.) |
| Height | 1411 mm (55.55 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2614 mm (102.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1481 mm (58.31 in.) |
| Front overhang | 909 mm (35.79 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 953 mm (37.52 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 122 mm (4.8 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer |
| 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 | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra H TwinTop 1.9 CDTI is the Z19DTH engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of the GM/Fiat family of common rail direct injection diesels. It features a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for enhanced performance. The common rail direct injection system, operating at extremely high pressures, ensures precise fuel delivery and contributes to the engine’s relatively quiet operation for a diesel. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The gearbox ratios were tuned to maximize the torque available from the engine, providing reasonable acceleration and highway cruising ability.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.9 CDTI engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance in the TwinTop. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.7 seconds, and top speed was approximately 132 mph. Compared to the more powerful petrol (gasoline) variants, such as those with the 2.0 Turbo engine, the 1.9 CDTI felt less responsive, particularly at higher engine speeds. However, the abundant low-end torque made it a comfortable cruiser and provided sufficient power for everyday driving. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver engagement compared to the optional automatic, and the gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s powerband. The retractable hardtop mechanism did add some weight to the vehicle, slightly impacting handling compared to the standard Astra H hatchback.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9 CDTI TwinTop typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a more advanced audio system with CD changer. Optional extras included parking sensors, heated seats, and a navigation system. The interior design was functional and relatively modern for its time, though material quality was generally average. The convertible top mechanism was electronically operated and could be raised or lowered in around 30 seconds.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H TwinTop utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The front suspension provided good handling and ride comfort, while the rear torsion beam kept costs down and minimized weight. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The suspension was tuned to provide a compromise between comfort and handling, leaning towards the comfort side due to the car’s intended role as a stylish convertible. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra H TwinTop 1.9 CDTI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and the convenience of a retractable hardtop. However, some critics noted the relatively modest performance and the limited rear seat space. Compared to other diesel-powered convertibles of the time, such as the Peugeot 308 CC HDi, the Astra TwinTop offered a competitive package in terms of price and features. The 1.9 CDTI engine was known for its reliability, but like all diesel engines, it required regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements.
Legacy
The Opel Astra H TwinTop 1.9 CDTI has established a reputation as a relatively reliable and affordable convertible in the used car market. The 1.9 CDTI engine is generally considered to be durable, provided it has been properly maintained. Common issues include wear and tear on the convertible top mechanism and potential problems with the electronic control units. However, these issues are typically not major and can be addressed with reasonable repair costs. Today, the Astra H TwinTop 1.9 CDTI represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and economical open-top car.
