The Opel Vectra A CC 2.0i Automatic, produced between 1988 and 1989, represents a significant step forward for Opel in the mid-size family car segment. As the first generation of the Vectra, designated the ‘A’ series, it replaced the aging Ascona and Manta models, offering a more modern and refined package. The “CC” designation stands for “Caravan Combi,” indicating a hatchback body style, offering increased practicality compared to traditional saloons. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular choice in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. This model, specifically the 2.0i variant with an automatic transmission, aimed to provide a balance of performance and convenience for family buyers.
Opel Vectra A CC: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra A was a crucial model for Opel, marking a shift towards more contemporary design and engineering. It was built on a new platform, offering improved handling, safety, and interior space. The hatchback configuration of the CC model further enhanced its versatility, making it a practical choice for families and those needing to transport larger items. The 2.0i engine, paired with an automatic gearbox, was positioned as a comfortable and capable option within the Vectra range.
Engine & Performance
The Opel Vectra A CC 2.0i is powered by a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder engine, designated the 20NE. This engine displaces 1998 cubic centimeters (121.93 cubic inches) and produces 115 horsepower (Hp) at 5400 rpm. Torque output is rated at 170 Newton-meters (125.39 lb.-ft.) at 2600 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain, contributing to relatively smooth operation and acceptable fuel efficiency for its time. The power-to-weight ratio of 9.8 kg/Hp (101.8 Hp/tonne) and torque-to-weight ratio of 6.6 kg/Nm (150.4 Nm/tonne) provide adequate, though not exceptional, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 11.4 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 193 km/h (119.92 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 8.1 liters per 100 kilometers (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l).
Design & Features
The Vectra A CC features a five-door hatchback body style, offering a practical and accessible cabin. The design, while typical of the late 1980s, was considered modern for its time, with clean lines and a relatively aerodynamic profile. Inside, the Vectra A CC provides seating for five passengers and offers a generous 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) of trunk space, expandable to 1290 liters (45.56 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features, while limited by the standards of today, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as an option, a significant advancement for the era. Hydraulic power steering was standard, enhancing driving comfort and maneuverability. The vehicle rides on 14-inch wheels with 175/70 R14 tires. The interior focused on functionality and durability, with materials chosen for practicality rather than luxury. The overall design aimed to provide a comfortable and reliable family vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra A CC |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (115 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1988 |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 29 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 34.9 UK mpg |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2600 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 20NE |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1130 kg (2491.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1645 kg (3626.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1290 l (45.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4352 mm (171.34 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Opel Vectra A CC 2.0i Automatic, while not a performance leader, offered a solid and reliable package for families in the late 1980s. Its combination of practicality, reasonable performance, and available features made it a competitive choice in the European market, and laid the foundation for the subsequent generations of the Vectra that would follow.
