The Vauxhall Nova CC 1.5 TD was a small, economical hatchback produced between 1990 and 1993. Part of the Nova range, the “CC” designation signified a central control layout, meaning the controls were grouped around the driver. While the Nova itself was a popular choice in the United Kingdom and other European markets, the 1.5 TD diesel variant was specifically aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency. It represented a practical and affordable option in the supermini segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta and Renault Clio. The Nova, and particularly the diesel versions, filled a niche for cost-conscious drivers and those covering high mileages.
Vauxhall Nova CC 1.5 TD: An Overview
The Nova CC 1.5 TD was a product of Vauxhall’s (owned by Opel at the time) efforts to provide a modern, reliable, and affordable vehicle to the mass market. The Nova range was a successor to the aging Vauxhall Chevette, offering improved styling, comfort, and technology. The introduction of the 1.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine in the CC variant broadened the Nova’s appeal, catering to a segment of buyers who valued fuel economy above outright performance. This model was never officially sold in the United States, but it was a significant player in the European small car market.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Nova CC 1.5 TD was its 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the 15TD (T4EC1). This engine produced 67 horsepower at 4600 rpm and 132 Nm (97.36 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2600 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, the turbocharger helped to provide a reasonable level of drivability. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 22:1 was typical for diesel engines of the era, contributing to its fuel efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 13.3 seconds, and it could reach a maximum speed of 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio was 13.9 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio was 7 kg/Nm. The engine featured a transverse front-engine layout and was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels.
Design & Features
The Nova CC 1.5 TD was a three or five-door hatchback, offering practical access to the interior. Its design was typical of early 1990s European hatchbacks – functional and relatively simple. The “CC” designation indicated a driver-focused cockpit layout, with controls logically positioned for ease of use. Inside, the Nova offered seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space was somewhat limited. The trunk offered 260 liters (9.18 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1150 liters (40.61 cu. ft.) when folded down. Safety features were relatively basic by modern standards, reflecting the era in which the car was designed. However, it did offer features like a steering wheel lock and basic seatbelts. The Nova’s relatively lightweight construction (930 kg / 2050.3 lbs kerb weight) contributed to its fuel efficiency and handling. The drag coefficient of 0.37 was respectable for the time.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Nova |
| Generation | Nova CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TD (67 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg / 47.1 UK mpg / 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 67 Hp @ 4600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 45 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 2600 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 15TD, T4EC1 |
| Engine displacement | 1488 cm3 (90.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.75 l (3.96 US qt | 3.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 930 kg (2050.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 260 l (9.18 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1150 l (40.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3622 mm (142.6 in.) |
| Width | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Height | 1364 mm (53.7 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2343 mm (92.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1320 mm (51.97 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 165/70 R13 |
| Wheel rims size | 13 |
The Vauxhall Nova CC 1.5 TD, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a sensible and economical choice for buyers in the early 1990s. Its fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability made it a popular choice in its segment, and it remains a fondly remembered car for many in the UK and Europe.
