The Opel Vectra B Caravan (facelift 1999) 1.8i 16V represents a significant iteration of Opel’s mid-size family car, the Vectra. Introduced as a facelift to the B generation, which ran from 1995 to 2002, this model aimed to refine the existing platform with updated styling, improved features, and enhanced efficiency. The Caravan designation signifies the station wagon (estate) body style, popular in Europe for its practicality and cargo capacity. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra B competed with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat in the European market, offering a blend of comfort, space, and affordability.
Opel Vectra B Caravan: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra B was Opel’s attempt to move upmarket and challenge established players in the D-segment. The facelifted 1999 model brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including revised headlights, a new grille, and updated bumpers. These alterations gave the car a more modern and refined appearance. The 1.8i 16V engine option, producing 115 horsepower, was a common choice for buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy. The Caravan body style, in particular, appealed to families and those needing a versatile vehicle for both everyday commuting and longer journeys.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 1999 Opel Vectra B Caravan 1.8i 16V is an inline four-cylinder, 1.8-liter (1796 cm3 or 109.6 cu. in.) gasoline engine, designated the X18XE1. This engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It produces a maximum power output of 115 horsepower (Hp) at 5600 rpm, and a torque of 170 Newton-meters (125.39 lb.-ft.) at 3800 rpm. This configuration delivers a power-to-liter ratio of 64 Hp/l. The engine’s performance translates to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of approximately 10.5 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 203 km/h (126.14 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 11.4 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.7 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain for its time.
Design & Features
The Vectra B Caravan is a five-door station wagon designed to maximize interior space and practicality. It comfortably seats five passengers and offers a substantial cargo area. The facelifted model featured a more streamlined exterior design compared to the pre-facelift versions. Inside, the cabin was designed with functionality in mind, offering a comfortable driving experience with a focus on ergonomics. Standard features typically included power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a five-speed manual transmission. The Caravan’s key selling point was its generous cargo capacity, ranging from a minimum of 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to a maximum of 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features, while not as advanced as modern vehicles, included ABS and a robust body structure designed to provide occupant protection in the event of a collision. The hydraulic steering provided a responsive and connected feel to the driver.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B Caravan (facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8i 16V (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 1999 |
| End of production | February, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h / 126.14 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 3800 rpm / 125.39 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X18XE1 |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 / 109.6 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm / 3.17 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 88.2 mm / 3.47 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l / 4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt |
| Coolant | 6.7 l / 7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg / 2888.06 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1905 kg / 4199.81 lbs |
| Max load | 595 kg / 1311.75 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l / 16.24 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1490 l / 52.62 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l / 15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal |
| Length | 4490 mm / 176.77 in. |
| Width | 1707 mm / 67.2 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 1841 mm / 72.48 in. |
| Height | 1490 mm / 58.66 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm / 103.82 in. |
| Front track | 1484 mm / 58.43 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1473 mm / 57.99 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm / 6.3 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
The Opel Vectra B Caravan 1.8i 16V (facelift 1999) represents a practical and reliable family vehicle that was well-regarded in the European market. Its combination of spaciousness, reasonable performance, and affordability made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and dependable station wagon.
