The Opel Vectra B CC 2.0 DI 16V, produced between 1996 and 1998, represents a significant iteration in Opel’s mid-size family car lineage. As a compact hatchback (CC denoting “Coupe Comfort,” a marketing term for the fastback style), it aimed to blend practicality with a more stylish design than its predecessor. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra B was a popular vehicle in Europe, competing with models like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 406. This particular variant, powered by a 2.0-liter direct injection diesel engine, offered a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for the era, catering to drivers seeking economy without sacrificing space or comfort.
Opel Vectra B CC: A European Family Car
The Vectra B, launched in 1995, was a crucial model for Opel (a subsidiary of General Motors). It represented a move upmarket in terms of design and technology compared to the previous Vectra A. The “CC” version, with its sloping rear roofline, offered a more dynamic appearance. The 2.0 DI 16V engine was a key component of the Vectra B range, providing a diesel option for those prioritizing fuel economy and lower running costs. The Vectra B was a mainstay of European roads for several years, known for its reliability and practicality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra B CC 2.0 DI 16V is its 1995 cc inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated X20DTL. This engine utilizes direct injection technology, a relatively advanced feature for the mid-1990s, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. Producing 82 horsepower at 4300 rpm and 185 Nm (136.45 lb-ft) of torque between 1800 and 2500 rpm, the engine prioritizes usable low-end torque over outright power. This makes it well-suited for everyday driving and carrying passengers or cargo. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle and drives the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 14.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 178 km/h (110.6 mph). While not a sports car, the Vectra B CC 2.0 DI 16V offered adequate performance for its intended purpose. The engine’s 18.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a direct injection diesel, contributing to its efficiency.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra B CC is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. The “Coupe Comfort” design features a sloping rear roofline that gives it a more streamlined and modern appearance compared to traditional notchback saloons. Inside, the Vectra B CC provides seating for five passengers and offers a generous 480 liters (16.95 cu ft) of trunk space, expandable to 790 liters (27.9 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which was becoming increasingly common on European vehicles. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a functional layout. Power steering, utilizing a hydraulic system, was standard, providing ease of maneuverability. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4495 mm (176.97 in) in length, 1707 mm (67.2 in) in width, and 1425 mm (56.1 in) in height – place it squarely in the mid-size category. The 195/65 R15 tires, mounted on 15-inch wheels, provided a comfortable ride and adequate grip.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B CC |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 DI 16V (82 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 1996 |
| End of production | November, 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 4300 rpm |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 1800-2500 rpm (136.45 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X20DTL |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1335 kg (2943.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 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 (Back) track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 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 | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Opel Vectra B CC 2.0 DI 16V, while not a performance icon, represents a well-rounded and practical family car that was popular in Europe during the late 1990s. Its fuel-efficient diesel engine, combined with its spacious interior and functional design, made it a sensible choice for drivers seeking a reliable and economical vehicle.
