The Opel Vectra B Caravan (facelift 1999) 2.0i 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 original design and enhance its appeal in the competitive European market. The “Caravan” designation signifies the station wagon (estate) body style, offering increased practicality and cargo space. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra B was a popular choice for families and fleet buyers in Europe, known for its blend of comfort, affordability, and reasonable performance.
Opel Vectra B Caravan: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra B, and specifically the facelifted versions like the 1999 2.0i 16V Caravan, were designed to address criticisms of the initial B-series models. The facelift brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and updated engine options. The Caravan body style was particularly important, as station wagons held a strong market share in Europe, catering to buyers needing versatile load-carrying capabilities. This model competed with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Peugeot 406 SW.
Engine & Performance
The 1999 Opel Vectra B Caravan 2.0i 16V is powered by the X20XEV inline-four cylinder engine, displacing 1998 cm³ (121.93 cu. in.). This naturally aspirated engine produces 136 horsepower (Hp) at 5600 rpm and 188 Nm (138.66 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for everyday driving. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 10.1 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.3 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain for its time.
Design & Features
The Vectra B Caravan boasts a traditional station wagon profile, characterized by its extended roofline and large rear cargo area. The 1999 facelift brought subtle styling updates to the front and rear fascias, including revised headlights and taillights. Inside, the cabin offers seating for five passengers and a practical interior layout. Key features include a spacious trunk with a minimum capacity of 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) expanding to 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features for this era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. Hydraulic power steering provides ease of maneuverability. The vehicle rides on coil springs at both the front and rear, offering a comfortable ride quality. The drag coefficient of 0.32 is respectable for a vehicle of this type and era, contributing to reasonable fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B Caravan (facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 1999 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 188 Nm @ 3200 rpm (138.66 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X20XEV |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm³ (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 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 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1378 kg (3037.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 582 kg (1283.09 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 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives the front wheels |
| 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 2.0i 16V (facelift 1999) represents a practical and reliable family vehicle that was well-regarded in its European market segment. While not a performance car, it offered a comfortable driving experience, ample space, and a reasonable level of equipment for its time. Its enduring appeal lies in its blend of functionality and affordability.
