The Opel Vectra A CC (facelift 1992) 1.6i represents a significant evolution in Opel’s mid-size offerings. Introduced in August 1993 and continuing through July 1995, this model was a key component of the Vectra A series, a car designed to replace the aging Ascona and Manta. While not widely sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular choice in Europe, offering a blend of practicality, affordability, and relatively modern styling for its time. The “CC” designation stands for “Coupé Classic,” referring to the fastback-style hatchback body. This particular 1.6i variant, producing 71 horsepower, was aimed at buyers seeking economical transportation with a reasonable level of comfort and space.
Opel Vectra A CC (facelift 1992) 1.6i: An Overview
The Vectra A was Opel’s attempt to create a unified platform for the mid-size segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The 1992 facelift brought subtle but important changes to the original Vectra A, including revised styling, improved interior materials, and refinements to the engine range. The 1.6i model occupied the lower end of the powertrain spectrum, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. It was a common choice for families and individuals who needed a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and occasional longer journeys. The hatchback body style, offering a generous cargo area, further enhanced its practicality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra A CC 1.6i is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the X16SZ. This engine produces 71 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 128 Nm (94.41 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2800 rpm. It features a single-point fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. While not a powerhouse, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.8 seconds. The top speed is rated at 176 km/h (109.36 mph). The engine’s relatively low power output results in a weight-to-power ratio of 15.4 kg/Hp. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg or 44.1 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 166 g/km.
Design & Features
The Vectra A CC 1.6i is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its design, while somewhat conservative by modern standards, was considered contemporary for the early 1990s. The fastback roofline contributes to a sleek silhouette, and the relatively spacious interior provides comfortable seating for five passengers. Key features included hydraulic power steering and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which were becoming increasingly common safety features during this period. The interior was functional and well-built, with a focus on durability rather than luxury. Trunk space is a notable asset, ranging from 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1290 liters (45.56 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down. The vehicle’s curb weight is 1095 kg (2414.06 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra A CC (facelift 1992) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (71 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 1993 |
| End of production | July, 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 166 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 71 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 44.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 2800 rpm (94.41 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X16SZ |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Single-point injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1095 kg (2414.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| 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.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Opel Vectra A CC 1.6i, while not a performance icon, represents a solid and practical choice for buyers in the early 1990s. Its blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and spaciousness made it a popular vehicle in its segment, and it played a significant role in establishing Opel as a major player in the European automotive market.
