The Opel Vectra B CC (facelift 1999) 1.8 16V Automatic is a compact hatchback produced by the German automaker Opel between 2000 and 2002. Representing a mid-cycle refresh of the popular Vectra B series, this model aimed to enhance the vehicle’s appeal with updated styling, improved features, and refined engine options. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra held a significant position in the European market as a versatile and practical family car, competing with models like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The “CC” designation stands for “Comfort and Cruise,” highlighting the model’s focus on providing a comfortable driving experience.
Opel Vectra B CC: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra B series, launched in 1995, was a crucial model for Opel, representing a significant step forward in design and technology. The facelifted version in 1999 brought a more modern aesthetic and subtle mechanical improvements. The 1.8 16V variant, paired with an automatic transmission, offered a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for everyday commuting and family transportation. This particular configuration was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a comfortable and reliable vehicle without sacrificing a reasonable level of performance.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra B CC 1.8 16V is a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the Z18XE. This naturally aspirated engine produces 125 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. While not a high-performance engine, it provides adequate power for typical driving conditions. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain delivers smooth gear changes and ease of use. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.0 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 11.4 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.9 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 8 kg/Nm indicate a reasonably balanced vehicle for its class.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra B CC is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The facelifted model features revised front and rear styling, including updated headlights, taillights, and bumpers, giving it a more contemporary appearance. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The trunk space is a notable feature, providing 480 liters (16.95 cu. ft.) of storage with the rear seats up, and expanding to 1180 liters (41.67 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Standard features typically included power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and front ventilated disc brakes with rear discs. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4495 mm (176.97 in.) in length, 1707 mm (67.2 in.) in width, and 1425 mm (56.1 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2637 mm (103.82 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B CC (facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 16V (125 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2000 |
| End of production | February, 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 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) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 207 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.0 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 3800 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z18XE |
| 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 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1815 kg (4001.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1180 l (41.67 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.) |
| 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) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Opel Vectra B CC 1.8 16V Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a solid and dependable option in the European compact car segment. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice for families and commuters alike. Though never officially available in the US market, it remains a significant example of Opel’s engineering and design capabilities during the early 2000s.
