The Opel Vectra A CC (facelift 1992) 2.5 V6 represents a significant evolution in Opel’s mid-size offerings. Introduced in March 1993 and continuing through July 1995, this variant of the Vectra A, designated as the “CC” (Caravan/Commodore), primarily served the European market as a practical and relatively sporty family vehicle. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra A, and particularly the 2.5 V6 model, showcased Opel’s engineering capabilities and commitment to providing a refined driving experience within the competitive D-segment. The facelift in 1992 brought updated styling and mechanical improvements, solidifying the Vectra A’s position as a popular choice for European drivers.
Opel Vectra A CC (facelift 1992) 2.5 V6: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra A was Opel’s replacement for the Ascona and Manta models, aiming to consolidate Opel’s offerings in the mid-size class. The “CC” designation indicates a body style that blends hatchback practicality with a more traditional notchback appearance. The 2.5 V6 engine was the flagship powertrain option, offering a substantial performance upgrade over the base models. This model aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a balance between family-friendly space and engaging performance, a combination that was increasingly popular in the early 1990s European automotive landscape.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra A CC 2.5 V6 lies the C25XE engine, a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 producing 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 227 Nm (167.43 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. This engine, characterized by its smooth power delivery and distinctive V6 sound, provided a noticeable performance advantage. The engine’s configuration – a 60-degree V-angle – contributed to its relatively compact size and balanced operation. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, allowing for spirited driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 7.8 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in a calculated 7.4 seconds. The top speed is rated at 233 km/h (144.78 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio of 7.6 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 5.7 kg/Nm further highlight its performance capabilities. Fuel consumption is rated at 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg), a respectable figure for a V6 engine of this era.
Design & Features
The Vectra A CC (facelift 1992) features a five-door hatchback body style, offering a practical and versatile layout. The facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including revised front and rear fascias, updated headlights, and a more streamlined profile. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five passengers and a generous amount of space for luggage. Trunk space ranges from 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1290 liters (45.56 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features for the time included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and hydraulic power steering. While not boasting the advanced safety technologies of modern vehicles, the inclusion of ABS was a significant step forward in braking performance and control. The overall design aesthetic reflects the early 1990s, characterized by clean lines and a focus on functionality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra A CC (facelift 1992) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 V6 (170 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 1993 |
| End of production | July, 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 28 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 33.6 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 11.9 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 233 km/h |
| Maximum speed (mph) | 144.78 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 227 Nm @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 167.43 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | C25XE |
| Engine displacement | 2489 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 151.89 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 81.6 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 3.21 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 79.6 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 3.13 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 4.76 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 3.96 UK qt |
| Coolant | 7.5 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 7.93 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 6.6 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1285 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs.) | 2832.94 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 1775 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs.) | 3913.21 lbs. |
| Max load | 490 kg |
| Max load (lbs.) | 1080.27 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 16.24 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1290 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 45.56 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 16.11 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 13.42 UK gal |
| Length | 4352 mm |
| Length (in.) | 171.34 in. |
| Width | 1706 mm |
| Width (in.) | 67.17 in. |
| Height | 1400 mm |
| Height (in.) | 55.12 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 102.36 in. |
| Front track | 1437 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 56.57 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1432 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 56.38 in. |
| 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
The Opel Vectra A CC 2.5 V6, while never officially available in the US market, represents a compelling example of European automotive engineering from the early 1990s. Its blend of practicality, performance, and relatively sophisticated features made it a popular choice for families and drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience. The C25XE engine remains a respected powerplant among enthusiasts, known for its durability and smooth power delivery.
