The Opel Vectra B 2.5i V6 24V, produced between December 1997 and November 1998, represents a significant iteration in Opel’s mid-size family car lineage. As the second generation of the Vectra, the ‘B’ series aimed to improve upon its predecessor with enhanced refinement, safety, and a broader range of engine options. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular choice in Europe as a practical and relatively affordable family sedan, competing with models like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The 2.5i V6 24V variant, boasting 195 horsepower, was positioned as the performance-oriented trim level within the Vectra B range, offering a compelling blend of power and everyday usability.
Opel Vectra B 2.5i V6 24V: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra B marked a departure from the more angular styling of the previous generation, adopting a smoother, more aerodynamic design. This was not merely an aesthetic choice; the improved aerodynamics contributed to reduced fuel consumption and improved stability at higher speeds. The 2.5i V6 24V model specifically targeted drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the comfort and practicality expected of a family sedan. It represented a step up from the more common four-cylinder engines offered in the Vectra lineup.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra B 2.5i V6 24V lies a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter V6 engine, designated the X25XEI. This engine produces 195 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 240 Newton-meters (177 lb-ft) of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine’s configuration – a 60-degree V-angle – contributes to its smooth operation and relatively compact size. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and four valves per cylinder, optimizing combustion efficiency and power output. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, the Vectra B 2.5i V6 24V could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 8.2 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph in a calculated 7.8 seconds. Its top speed was electronically limited to 236 km/h (146.64 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 7.3 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.9 kg/Nm provided a responsive and enjoyable driving experience.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra B 2.5i V6 24V is a four-door sedan with a five-seat configuration. Its body dimensions measure 4,495 mm (176.97 inches) in length, 1,707 mm (67.2 inches) in width, and 1,425 mm (56.1 inches) in height. The wheelbase is 2,637 mm (103.82 inches). The interior of the Vectra B was designed with practicality and comfort in mind. While not overtly luxurious, it offered a reasonably spacious cabin with adequate legroom and headroom for passengers. Standard features included power windows, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Safety features, considered advanced for its time, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The trunk offered a usable volume of 480-500 liters (16.95-17.66 cubic feet), providing ample space for luggage and other cargo. The drag coefficient of 0.30 contributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise at higher speeds.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5i V6 24V (195 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 1997 |
| End of production | November, 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg / 20.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg / 37.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 236 km/h (146.64 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 195 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 3500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X25XEI |
| Engine displacement | 2498 cm3 (152.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 81.6 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.6 mm (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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1415 kg (3119.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4495 mm (176.97 in.) |
| Width | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1841 mm (72.48 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Vectra B 2.5i V6 24V, while not a high-performance sports sedan, offered a compelling package for drivers seeking a comfortable, practical, and reasonably powerful family car. Its blend of refinement, safety features, and engaging driving dynamics made it a popular choice in the European market during its production run.
