The Opel Vectra B CC 2.5i V6 was a mid-size hatchback produced by the German manufacturer Opel between 1995 and 1998. Representing the second generation of the Vectra, the “CC” designation stands for “Caravan Coupe,” signifying its hatchback body style. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular vehicle in Europe, competing with models like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 406. The 2.5i V6 variant, equipped with a 170 horsepower engine and automatic transmission, was a higher-specification model aimed at buyers seeking a blend of performance and comfort.
Opel Vectra B CC: An Overview
The Vectra B represented a significant step forward for Opel, offering improved styling, interior space, and technology compared to its predecessor. The hatchback body style, particularly the Caravan Coupe (CC) version, provided a practical and versatile option for families and individuals alike. The 2.5i V6 model was positioned as a premium offering within the Vectra range, boasting a smooth and powerful engine that set it apart from the more common four-cylinder variants. It was a popular choice for those who desired a more refined driving experience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra B CC 2.5i V6 is its 2.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6 engine, designated the X25XE. This engine produces 170 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3200 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and multi-port fuel injection. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 227 km/h (141.05 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 8.1 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6 kg/Nm contribute to a responsive and engaging driving experience. The engine’s 68.1 horsepower per liter demonstrates a respectable level of specific output for a naturally aspirated engine of that era.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra B CC is a five-door hatchback with a relatively conservative, yet modern for its time, design. The CC variant features a sloping rear roofline that enhances its sporty appearance. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a practical level of space for both passengers and luggage. Trunk space ranges from 480 liters (16.95 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 790 liters (27.9 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern vehicles, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4495 mm (176.97 in.) in length, 1707 mm (67.2 in.) in width, and 1425 mm (56.1 in.) in height. The Vectra B CC featured hydraulic power steering and rode on 16-inch wheels with 205/55 R16 tires. The overall design prioritized practicality and comfort, making it a suitable family vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B CC |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5i V6 (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | November, 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.1 l/100 km (15.6 US mpg, 18.7 UK mpg, 6.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 227 km/h (141.05 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3200 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X25XE |
| Engine displacement | 2498 cm3 (152.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 81.6 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.6 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.7 l (8.14 US qt | 6.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1875 kg (4133.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 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 | 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 | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Vectra B CC 2.5i V6, while not a performance car in the modern sense, offered a compelling package of comfort, practicality, and respectable performance for its time. It remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts in Europe, appreciated for its reliability, smooth engine, and relatively affordable maintenance costs.
