The Opel Vectra A (facelift 1992) 2.0i 16V Automatic is a four-door, five-seat sedan produced between 1994 and 1995. Representing a significant step forward for Opel, the Vectra A aimed to replace the aging Ascona and Manta models, offering a more modern and refined driving experience. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular mid-size offering in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The facelifted version, introduced in 1992, brought styling updates and mechanical improvements, solidifying the Vectra A’s position in the competitive European market.
Opel Vectra A (facelift 1992): Overview
The Vectra A was Opel’s attempt to create a unified platform for a range of mid-size vehicles. It was based on a new chassis and offered a variety of engine and trim options. The 2.0i 16V model, equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission, represented a balance between performance and convenience. This particular variant was aimed at drivers seeking a comfortable and capable family sedan with a degree of sporting character. The facelift in 1992 addressed some initial criticisms of the original Vectra A, improving its aesthetics and perceived quality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra A 2.0i 16V is the X20XEV inline-four cylinder engine, displacing 1,998 cubic centimeters (121.93 cubic inches). This naturally aspirated engine produces 136 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 188 Newton-meters (138.66 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3,200 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high power output for its displacement – 68.1 horsepower per liter. Paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, the Vectra A 2.0i 16V achieves a 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of approximately 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.9 liters per 100 kilometers combined (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg). The front-wheel-drive configuration and a weight-to-power ratio of 9 kg/Hp contribute to its handling characteristics.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra A (facelift 1992) is a traditional four-door sedan with a relatively conservative design. The facelift brought subtle changes to the front and rear fascias, including a revised grille and headlights, aiming to modernize the vehicle’s appearance. The interior is functional and reasonably spacious, offering seating for five adults. Key features for the time included hydraulic power steering and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), enhancing safety and driver control. The trunk offers a generous 530 liters (18.72 cubic feet) of space, expandable to 840 liters (29.66 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1,230 kg (2,711.69 lbs) and maximum load capacity of 525 kg (1,157.43 lbs) demonstrate its practicality as a family vehicle. The 195/60 R15 tires mounted on 15-inch wheels provide a balance between ride comfort and handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra A (facelift 1992) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 1994 |
| End of production | July, 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 110.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 152.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 188 Nm @ 3200 rpm (138.66 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X20XEV |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg (2711.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1755 kg (3869.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 840 l (29.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4432 mm (174.49 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1432 mm (56.38 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 | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Opel Vectra A (facelift 1992) 2.0i 16V Automatic, while not a performance icon, represented a solid and reliable mid-size offering for European drivers. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice in its segment. It laid the groundwork for subsequent Vectra generations, which would continue to evolve and refine Opel’s presence in the competitive family car market.
