The Opel Commodore C Caravan 2.5 S Automatic, produced between 1980 and 1982, represented a comfortable and practical offering within the Commodore C range. Positioned as a mid-range variant, it combined the spaciousness of the Caravan (estate) body style with a 2.5-liter inline-six engine paired to a three-speed automatic transmission. This configuration aimed to provide a balance between performance and ease of driving, appealing to families and those requiring a versatile vehicle. The Commodore C series, built on the GM’s V platform, was Opel’s flagship model, intended to compete with larger sedans and wagons from other European manufacturers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Commodore |
| Generation | Commodore C Caravan |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 S (115 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1980 |
| End of production | 1982 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 88 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm, 137 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 46.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 179 Nm @ 3800-4200 rpm (132.02 lb.-ft. @ 3800-4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 25S |
| Engine displacement | 2490 cm3 (151.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69.8 mm (2.75 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1307 kg (2881.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 603 kg (1329.39 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Length | 4732 mm (186.3 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2668 mm (105.04 in.) |
| Front track | 1447 mm (56.97 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1438 mm (56.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 956 mm (37.64 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1108 mm (43.62 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.46 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Tires size | 175/88 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Commodore C Caravan 2.5 S Automatic was the 25S engine, a 2.5-liter (2490 cc) inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and was fed by a carburetor, a common setup for the era. The inline-six configuration provided a relatively smooth power delivery, although it lacked the sophistication of more modern fuel injection systems. The engine produced 115 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 179 Nm (132 lb-ft) of torque between 3800 and 4200 rpm. This torque output was crucial for hauling passengers and cargo, a key requirement for a station wagon. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The three-speed automatic transmission, while offering convenience, was not known for its responsiveness or fuel efficiency compared to manual transmissions available in other Commodore C models.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 S Automatic offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The automatic transmission smoothed out gear changes, making it ideal for city driving and long journeys. However, the 14-second 0-60 mph acceleration time was modest, especially when compared to the more powerful Commodore GS/E models. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards cruising rather than rapid acceleration. The rear-wheel drive layout provided predictable handling, but the relatively soft suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort over sharp cornering. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.5, the automatic suffered a noticeable performance penalty, and fuel economy was also lower.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Commodore C Caravan 2.5 S Automatic was generally well-equipped for its time. Standard features typically included cloth upholstery, a basic radio, and power-assisted steering. The interior was functional and spacious, reflecting the car’s family-oriented purpose. Optional extras included a more advanced radio with cassette player, upgraded upholstery, and a sunroof. The trim level, denoted by the “S,” indicated a step up from the base Commodore, offering a slightly more refined interior and exterior finish. The Caravan body style itself was a key feature, providing a large cargo area accessible through a rear tailgate.
Chassis & Braking
The Commodore C Caravan utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The suspension consisted of independent front suspension with coil springs and a live axle rear suspension with leaf springs. The braking system was typically comprised of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride. The drum brakes on the rear were a cost-saving measure and offered less stopping power than disc brakes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Commodore C Caravan 2.5 S Automatic was generally well-received in the European market as a practical and comfortable family vehicle. Critics praised its spacious interior and smooth ride, but noted its relatively modest performance and fuel economy. Compared to the more sporting Commodore GS/E models, the 2.5 S Automatic was seen as a more sensible choice for those prioritizing comfort and practicality. The 1.9-liter four-cylinder Commodore offered better fuel economy but lacked the power and refinement of the 2.5-liter six. The automatic transmission, while convenient, was often criticized for its sluggishness and impact on fuel consumption.
Legacy
The Opel Commodore C Caravan 2.5 S Automatic, while not a performance icon, remains a fondly remembered classic among Opel enthusiasts. The 25S engine, while carbureted, proved to be relatively reliable if properly maintained. Today, these cars are sought after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts. The availability of spare parts can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of owners and suppliers helps to keep these vehicles on the road. The Commodore C Caravan represents a significant era in Opel’s history, embodying the design and engineering philosophies of the 1980s. The combination of a spacious body style, comfortable ride, and relatively durable powertrain has ensured its continued appeal in the used car market.
