The Opel Vectra B Caravan (facelift 1999) 1.6i 16V Automatic represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation Vectra, a mainstay in Opel’s lineup and a popular choice in the European market. Introduced in 1995, the Vectra B aimed to provide a more modern and refined experience compared to its predecessor. The Caravan designation signifies the station wagon (estate) body style, offering increased practicality and cargo space. This particular variant, powered by a 1.6-liter 16-valve engine producing 100 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission, was geared towards buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising over outright performance. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra B competed with models like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat in the mid-size family car segment across Europe.
Opel Vectra B Caravan: An Overview
The Vectra B Caravan facelift, released in 1999, brought subtle styling updates and refinements to the existing model. These changes included revised front and rear fascias, updated interior trim, and improvements to the engine range. The 1.6i 16V engine was a common choice for those seeking a balance between economy and usability. The automatic transmission offered convenience, particularly in urban driving conditions. The Caravan body style was a key selling point, providing a versatile option for families and those requiring ample cargo capacity. The Vectra B, in general, was known for its relatively spacious interior and comfortable ride.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 1999 Opel Vectra B Caravan 1.6i 16V is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated the X16XEL. This naturally aspirated engine produces 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain delivers a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 15.5 seconds. Top speed is rated at 170 km/h (105.63 mph). While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 1.6i engine provides adequate power for everyday driving. The weight-to-power ratio of 12.7 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 8.4 kg/Nm reflect the car’s focus on practicality rather than speed. Fuel economy is rated at 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) combined, with 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg) in urban conditions and 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) on the open road. CO2 emissions are 198 g/km.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra B Caravan is a five-door station wagon, offering seating for five passengers. Its design emphasizes practicality and functionality. The facelifted model features a more streamlined front end and updated taillights compared to the original Vectra B. The Caravan’s key feature is its spacious cargo area, offering 460 liters (16.24 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up and expanding to 1490 liters (52.62 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Standard safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle utilizes a coil spring suspension system for both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride. Power steering, utilizing a hydraulic system, is also standard. The vehicle rides on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 5.5J x 15 inch wheel rims. The drag coefficient of 0.32 contributes to reasonable aerodynamic efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B Caravan (facelift 1999) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i 16V (100 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 1999 |
| End of production | January, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 198 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 100 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 3600 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X16XEL |
| 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 | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt | 2.86 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1266 kg (2791.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1890 kg (4166.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 624 kg (1375.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1490 l (52.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4490 mm (176.77 in.) |
| Width | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1841 mm (72.48 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Rear track | 1473 mm (57.99 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
