The Opel Vectra A CC 2.0i, produced between 1988 and 1989, represents a significant step forward for Opel in the mid-size class. As the first generation of the Vectra, it replaced the aging Ascona and Manta models, aiming to offer a more modern and refined driving experience. The “CC” designation stands for “Caravan Coupe,” indicating a hatchback body style, which was relatively uncommon in this segment at the time. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra A was a popular choice in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. It was designed to appeal to families and drivers seeking a practical yet stylish vehicle.
Opel Vectra A CC 2.0i: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra A marked a departure from Opel’s traditionally conservative designs. It featured a more aerodynamic silhouette and a spacious interior, prioritizing comfort and functionality. The 2.0i variant, equipped with a 101 horsepower engine, offered a balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a versatile option for everyday driving. The introduction of the Vectra A also saw Opel incorporating new technologies and safety features, albeit limited by the standards of the late 1980s.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra A CC 2.0i is a 1,998 cc (121.93 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder engine, designated the C20NEF. This naturally aspirated engine produces 101 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 158 Nm (116.53 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2,600 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. This configuration provided a reasonable level of performance for its time, allowing for a comfortable cruising speed and adequate acceleration. Power per liter is rated at 50.6 hp/l. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The drivetrain features a five-speed manual transmission, offering drivers full control over gear selection. While not a sports car, the 2.0i engine provided sufficient power for typical commuting and long-distance travel.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra A CC is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its design emphasized aerodynamics, with a sloping roofline and integrated spoilers. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering seating for five passengers and a generous amount of cargo space. The trunk capacity ranges from 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1,290 liters (45.56 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Features included power steering, central locking, and electric windows, although these were often optional extras depending on the trim level. Safety features, while basic by modern standards, included seatbelts and a reinforced safety cell. The overall aesthetic of the Vectra A was modern for its time, reflecting a shift towards more contemporary automotive design. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4,352 mm (171.34 in.) in length, 1,706 mm (67.17 in.) in width, and 1,400 mm (55.12 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,600 mm (102.36 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra A CC |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (101 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1988 |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 158 Nm @ 2600 rpm / 116.53 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | C20NEF |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 / 121.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm / 3.39 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm / 3.39 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l / 4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt |
| Coolant | 7 l / 7.4 US qt | 6.16 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
The Opel Vectra A CC 2.0i, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a solid and reliable offering in the European mid-size market. It laid the foundation for subsequent generations of the Vectra, which would become increasingly popular and technologically advanced. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and reasonable performance made it a well-regarded choice for families and commuters alike.
