The Opel Signum 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) represents a distinctive and often overlooked vehicle in the European automotive market. Launched in 2003, the Signum was Opel’s attempt to blend the comfort of an executive car with the practicality of a versatile hatchback. This particular variant, powered by a 1.9-liter CDTI engine producing 150 horsepower, was introduced in May 2004 and continued through 2005, offering a compelling combination of diesel efficiency and performance for its time. Positioned above the traditional D-segment sedan, the Signum aimed to attract buyers desiring more interior space and flexibility without opting for a large wagon or multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).
Opel Signum: Powertrain and Performance
The Opel Signum 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) is powered by a 1.9-liter (1910 cm3) inline four-cylinder CDTI (Common Rail Diesel Turbo Injection) engine, designated Z19DTH. This engine exemplifies the advanced diesel technology prevalent in Europe during the mid-2000s, balancing power, torque, and fuel economy. It features a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing combustion efficiency. A turbocharger and intercooler further enhance power output and efficiency across the engine’s operating range.
The 1.9 CDTI engine delivers 150 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a peak torque of 236.02 lb.-ft. (320 Nm) at 2000 rpm. This substantial low-end torque provides excellent drivability and strong acceleration, making the Signum responsive in both city traffic and on the highway. The engine’s 17.5:1 compression ratio, typical for direct-injection diesels, contributes to its efficiency.
Driving Dynamics and Efficiency
Power is transferred to the front wheels through a precise 6-speed manual transmission, offering drivers engaging control. This configuration allows the Signum 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 10 seconds, reaching a top speed of 129.87 mph. These performance figures were competitive within its segment, particularly considering the vehicle’s emphasis on comfort and versatility.
Fuel economy is a significant strength of this diesel variant. Urban fuel consumption is rated at 7.8 liters per 100 km (30.2 US mpg), while extra-urban consumption achieves an impressive 5.1 liters per 100 km (46.1 US mpg). The 16.11 US gallon fuel tank capacity contributes to its long range, making it an economical choice for extended journeys.
Design and Features
Body Style and Dimensions
The Opel Signum features a unique five-door hatchback body style, often described as an ‘extended hatchback’ due to its long wheelbase and elongated rear section. Measuring 182.52 inches in length, 70.79 inches in width, and 57.48 inches in height, the Signum has a substantial presence. Its 111.42-inch wheelbase, shared with the Vectra wagon, is considerably longer than the Vectra sedan, central to the Signum’s design philosophy and interior space.
Despite its size, the Signum maintains a respectable aerodynamic profile with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.33, contributing to fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The exterior design shares its front fascia with the contemporary Vectra, but diverges significantly from the B-pillar rearward with its sloping roofline and large tailgate.
Interior Features and Flexibility
The Signum is designed as a five-seater, but its innovation lies in the “FlexSpace” rear seating system. Unlike a conventional rear bench, the Signum features two individual rear seats that can slide forward and backward, recline, and even be removed, offering exceptional flexibility for passenger comfort or cargo capacity. A smaller central jump seat or a multi-functional storage console can be fitted between the rear seats. This modularity allows owners to prioritize legroom, luggage space, or a combination of both.
With all seats in place, the trunk offers 12.89 cubic feet (365 liters) of cargo space. Removing or folding the rear seats expands this to an impressive 49.79 cubic feet (1410 liters), rivaling many wagons and small SUVs. Standard features include hydraulic power steering with rack and pinion, ventilated front disc brakes, solid rear discs, and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The suspension utilizes coil springs front and rear, tuned for a comfortable ride. The vehicle rides on 215/55 R16 tires mounted on 6.5J x 16-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Signum |
| Generation | Signum |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) |
| Start of Production | May, 2004 |
| End of Production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body Type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 seconds |
| Maximum Speed | 129.87 mph (209 km/h) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per liter | 78.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 236.02 lb.-ft. (320 Nm) @ 2000 rpm |
| Engine Layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DTH |
| Engine Displacement | 1.9 liters (1910 cm3 / 116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 4 |
| Engine Configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.23 in. (82 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.56 in. (90.4 mm) |
| 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 | 4.54 US qt (4.3 l) |
| Coolant Capacity | 7.4 US qt (7 l) |
| Kerb Weight | 3450.23 lbs. (1565 kg) |
| Max. Weight | 4695.85 lbs. (2130 kg) |
| Max Load | 1245.61 lbs. (565 kg) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Minimum | 12.89 cu. ft. (365 l) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Maximum | 49.79 cu. ft. (1410 l) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 16.11 US gal (61 l) |
| Length | 182.52 in. (4636 mm) |
| Width | 70.79 in. (1798 mm) |
| Height | 57.48 in. (1460 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 111.42 in. (2830 mm) |
| Front Track | 60 in. (1524 mm) |
| Rear Track | 60.04 in. (1525 mm) |
| Drag Coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front-wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive Wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of Gears and Type of Gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front Suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear Suspension | Coil spring |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Disc |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires Size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel Rims Size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Opel Signum was a bold attempt to create a new niche in the European automotive market. While it didn’t achieve widespread success, its innovative FlexSpace seating system and focus on interior versatility demonstrated Opel’s engineering capabilities and forward-thinking design. The Signum remains a unique and interesting vehicle, representing an earnest effort to meet evolving consumer demands for practicality and premium comfort.
