The Opel Vectra C CC 3.0 CDTI Automatic, produced between 2003 and 2005, represents a significant iteration in Opel’s mid-size family car lineage. As a five-door hatchback, the Vectra C CC (Comfort Coupe) aimed to blend practicality with a more stylish, coupe-like profile. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra held a prominent position in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 406. This generation focused on improving interior space, ride comfort, and offering a range of modern engines, including the 3.0 CDTI diesel discussed here, which delivered a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Opel Vectra C CC 3.0 CDTI: An Overview
The Vectra C generation, launched in 2002, was a departure from its predecessors, emphasizing a more contemporary design and improved build quality. The “CC” designation signifies the Comfort Coupe variant, characterized by its sloping roofline and hatchback configuration. This body style offered increased versatility compared to a traditional sedan, providing easier access to the cargo area. The 3.0 CDTI model, equipped with a six-cylinder diesel engine and an automatic transmission, was positioned as a premium offering within the Vectra range, appealing to drivers seeking a refined and capable family vehicle.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C CC 3.0 CDTI lies the Y30DT, a 2.958-liter (180.51 cubic inches) V6 diesel engine. This engine produces 177 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque at 1900 rpm. The use of a turbocharger and intercooler significantly enhances performance, providing strong acceleration and effortless cruising. Coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission, the Vectra C CC achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 9.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 223 km/h (138.57 mph). The engine’s common rail direct injection system contributes to both its power output and relatively good fuel economy. The weight-to-power ratio of 9.3 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 4.5 kg/Nm further demonstrate the engine’s efficiency.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra C CC boasts a sleek, modern design for its time. The hatchback body style provides a practical and spacious interior, accommodating five passengers comfortably. The sloping roofline contributes to a more dynamic appearance, differentiating it from traditional sedans. Inside, the Vectra C CC offers a well-appointed cabin with a focus on comfort and ergonomics. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a family vehicle, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front and rear disc brakes. The trunk offers a generous 500 liters (17.66 cubic feet) of space, expandable to 1360 liters (48.03 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down, providing ample room for luggage and cargo. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4596 mm (180.94 in) in length, 1798 mm (70.79 in) in width, and 1460 mm (57.48 in) in height – position it squarely within the mid-size segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C CC |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 CDTI (177 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2003 |
| End of production | June, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 223 km/h (138.57 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 1900 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Y30DT |
| Engine displacement | 2958 cm3 (180.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.25 l (7.66 US qt | 6.38 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2125 kg (4684.82 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1360 l (48.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4596 mm (180.94 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2036 mm (80.16 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1523 mm (59.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1513 mm (59.57 in.) |
| Front overhang | 905 mm (35.63 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 991 mm (39.02 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Several levers and rods |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Opel Vectra C CC 3.0 CDTI Automatic, while not a vehicle commonly found in the US market, represents a well-engineered and practical family car that was popular in Europe. Its combination of a powerful diesel engine, comfortable interior, and versatile hatchback design made it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a refined and capable vehicle.
