The Opel Vectra B CC 1.6i, produced from October 1995 to November 1998, represents a significant iteration in Opel’s mid-size family car lineage. As part of the Vectra B generation, the “CC” designation denotes the “Caravan” or station wagon body style, offering a practical alternative to the notchback sedan. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular choice in Europe, competing with models like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 406. The 1.6i variant, equipped with a 75 horsepower engine, served as an entry-level option, prioritizing fuel economy and affordability within the range.
Opel Vectra B CC 1.6i: A European Family Car
The Vectra B marked a substantial leap forward for Opel, replacing the Vectra A in 1995. It was designed to appeal to a broader audience with its more modern styling, improved interior space, and enhanced safety features. The CC (Caravan) body style, specifically, catered to families and those requiring increased cargo capacity. The Vectra B was a key model for General Motors in Europe, showcasing their commitment to the region and providing a competitive offering in the crucial D-segment.
Engine & Performance
The Opel Vectra B CC 1.6i is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the X16SZR. This engine produces 75 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 128 Nm (94.41 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2800 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provided adequate power for everyday driving. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a naturally aspirated configuration, contributing to its relatively simple and reliable design. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 15.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 14.7 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg) in urban conditions, 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) combined. CO2 emissions are 180 g/km, meeting Euro 2 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Vectra B CC is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The Caravan (CC) version extends the roofline to the rear, creating a larger cargo area. The interior comfortably seats five passengers and provides a reasonable amount of legroom and headroom. Key features of the 1.6i model, typical for the mid-1990s, included hydraulic power steering, ventilated front disc brakes, and drum brakes on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was a standard safety feature, enhancing braking performance and stability. The vehicle’s suspension utilizes coil springs on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride. Trunk space ranges from 480 liters (16.95 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 790 liters (27.9 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down, making it a practical choice for families and those needing to transport larger items. The overall design of the Vectra B was considered modern for its time, with smooth lines and a relatively aerodynamic profile.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 1995 |
| End of production | November, 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 180 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 | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.8 kg/Hp |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 2800 rpm (94.41 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X16SZR |
| 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 | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt | 2.86 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1185 kg (2612.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 790 l (27.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4495 mm (176.97 in.) |
| Width | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1841 mm (72.48 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Rear track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Opel Vectra B CC 1.6i, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a practical and affordable option for European families. Its combination of reasonable fuel economy, spacious interior, and standard safety features made it a popular choice in its segment. The Vectra B, as a whole, played a significant role in establishing Opel as a competitive force in the European automotive market.
