The Opel Vectra A CC 1.8 S Automatic, produced between October 1988 and June 1989, represents a significant step forward for Opel in the mid-size family car segment. As the first generation of the Vectra, designated the ‘A’ series, it replaced the aging Ascona and Manta models, aiming to offer a more modern and refined driving experience. The “CC” designation signifies the *Coupé Cabriolet* body style, though it is a five-door hatchback. While not a direct sales success in the United States, the Vectra was a crucial model for Opel in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. This particular variant, powered by a 1.8-liter engine producing 88 horsepower, was geared towards buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency and comfortable, everyday usability, particularly with the convenience of an automatic transmission.
Opel Vectra A CC: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra A marked a departure from Opel’s previous designs, embracing a more aerodynamic and contemporary aesthetic. It was a product of the late 1980s, reflecting the design trends of the era with its relatively boxy, yet streamlined silhouette. The hatchback body style offered practicality and versatility, making it a popular choice for families. The 1.8 S trim level, coupled with the automatic gearbox, positioned the car as a comfortable and accessible option within the Vectra range.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra A CC 1.8 S lies a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated the E18NVR. This naturally aspirated engine produces 88 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 143 Nm (105.47 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3200 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provided adequate power for everyday driving. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 49 hp/l. The engine utilizes a carburettor fuel injection system, a common technology for the time, and features an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The four-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth gear changes, enhancing the car’s ease of use, especially in urban environments. The Vectra A CC 1.8 S achieves a combined fuel consumption of 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers (31.8 US mpg or 38.2 UK mpg), offering reasonable fuel economy for its class and era. Its maximum speed is rated at 176 km/h (109.36 mph).
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra A CC is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its dimensions are 4352 mm (171.34 in) in length, 1706 mm (67.17 in) in width, and 1400 mm (55.12 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2600 mm (102.36 in), providing a stable and comfortable ride. The interior comfortably seats five passengers. A key feature of the Vectra A CC is its spacious interior and generous trunk capacity. With the rear seats up, the trunk offers 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) of space, expanding to a substantial 1290 liters (45.56 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features for the time included seatbelts, though modern safety standards would consider them basic by today’s measures. The car’s design prioritized functionality and practicality, offering a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation for families and individuals alike. The ride height (ground clearance) is 140 mm (5.51 in).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra A CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 S (88 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 1988 |
| End of production | June, 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Power | 88 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 49 Hp/l |
| Torque | 143 Nm @ 3200 rpm (105.47 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | E18NVR |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1290 l (45.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4352 mm (171.34 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1420 mm (55.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1423 mm (56.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
The Opel Vectra A CC 1.8 S Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle in terms of performance or technology, represented a solid and reliable offering in the European mid-size car market. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and reasonable fuel economy made it a popular choice for families and commuters. It laid the foundation for subsequent Vectra generations, which would go on to become more technologically advanced and globally recognized.
