The Opel Monza A2 2.2 E Automatic, produced between 1984 and 1986, represented a refinement of the original Monza line, offering a blend of coupe styling, reasonable performance, and a degree of luxury for its time. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the A2 generation (which spanned 1982-1986), it slotted between the base 1.8 and the more potent 2.3-liter and GSi models. The Monza, as a whole, was Opel’s flagship coupe, intended to replace the earlier Commodore and Diplomat, and aimed to compete with vehicles like the Ford Cougar and BMW 6 Series, though at a more accessible price point. It was primarily a European market vehicle, with limited official imports to other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Monza |
| Generation | Monza A2 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 E (115 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1984 |
| End of production | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 118.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4200 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 1979 cm3 (120.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69.8 mm (2.75 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 746 l (26.34 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4720 mm (185.83 in.) |
| Width | 1722 mm (67.8 in.) |
| Height | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2668 mm (105.04 in.) |
| Front track | 1447 mm (56.97 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Monza A2 2.2 E Automatic is the C20E inline-four cylinder engine. This 1979cc unit featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, operating two valves per cylinder. The engine utilized Bosch Motronic fuel injection, a relatively advanced system for the time, providing precise fuel delivery for improved efficiency and performance. The 9.4:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the fuel quality available in European markets. The automatic transmission was a three-speed unit, designed to provide smooth, if not particularly sporty, gear changes. This transmission was a common GM unit used across various Opel and Vauxhall models of the era.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 horsepower and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.2 E engine, coupled with the three-speed automatic, resulted in a comfortable but not exhilarating driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 14.3 seconds, and top speed was approximately 112 mph. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.2 E, the automatic suffered a slight performance penalty due to the inherent losses in the torque converter and the less aggressive gear ratios. The automatic prioritized smooth cruising over spirited driving, making it well-suited for long-distance journeys. It wasn’t as responsive as the five-speed manual, nor did it offer the outright performance of the larger 2.3-liter or GSi models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Monza A2 2.2 E Automatic typically came equipped with features considered fairly luxurious for the mid-1980s. Standard equipment included power steering, central locking, electric windows, and a decent sound system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, though leather was available as an option. The dashboard layout was functional and driver-focused, with clear instrumentation. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and more premium interior trim materials. The A2 generation also saw improvements in interior build quality compared to the original Monza.
Chassis & Braking
The Monza A2 utilized a rear-wheel-drive layout, contributing to its balanced handling characteristics. The suspension consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a semi-trailing arm setup at the rear. The 2.2 E Automatic models generally featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for its weight and performance. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, though it wasn’t as sporty as some of its competitors.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Monza A2 2.2 E Automatic was generally well-received by automotive journalists as a comfortable and stylish coupe. Critics praised its spacious interior, refined ride, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for being somewhat sluggish and detracting from the driving experience. Compared to the manual transmission 2.2 E, the automatic offered less engagement and slightly worse fuel economy. The 2.3-liter models and the GSi offered significantly more performance, but at a higher price point. The Monza A2 2.2 E Automatic appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience over outright performance.
Legacy
The Opel Monza A2 2.2 E Automatic, while not the most sought-after version of the Monza, remains a relatively reliable classic car. The C20E engine is known for its durability, and the three-speed automatic transmission, while not particularly sophisticated, is generally robust. Parts availability can be a challenge, but many components are still available through specialist Opel parts suppliers. Today, the Monza A2 2.2 E Automatic is gaining recognition as a stylish and affordable classic coupe, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its unique design and comfortable driving experience. Well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly collectible, representing a piece of 1980s automotive history.
