The Opel Vectra C 1.9 CDTI, produced between 2004 and 2005, represents a significant iteration in Opel’s mid-size family car lineage. Part of the Vectra C generation (2002-2008), this model aimed to provide a blend of practicality, comfort, and efficiency for European drivers. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra C was a popular choice in Europe as a competitor to vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The 1.9 CDTI variant, equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, focused on delivering strong fuel economy and respectable performance.
Opel Vectra C 1.9 CDTI: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra C represented a move upmarket for Opel, with a more refined interior and improved ride quality compared to its predecessor. The 1.9 CDTI model specifically targeted buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and capable vehicle for both daily commuting and longer journeys. It was positioned as a practical and sensible option within the competitive D-segment of the European automotive market.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C 1.9 CDTI lies a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the Z19DTH. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at 2,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. This configuration allows for a good balance between power and fuel economy, making it suitable for a variety of driving conditions.
Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This gearbox provides precise shifting and contributes to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.8 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.3 seconds. The Vectra C 1.9 CDTI boasts a maximum speed of 217 km/h (134.84 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.2 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.8 kg/Nm demonstrate a reasonably efficient powertrain.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra C 1.9 CDTI is a four-door sedan with a traditional three-box design. Its styling was considered contemporary for its time, featuring a relatively understated but modern aesthetic. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a practical and comfortable cabin. Key features included standard equipment like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), power windows, and central locking.
The Vectra C prioritized safety, incorporating features like front and side airbags. The sedan body style offered a generous trunk space, ranging from 500 liters (17.66 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1050 liters (37.08 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4596 mm (180.94 in.) in length, 1798 mm (70.79 in.) in width, and 1460 mm (57.48 in.) in height – positioned it squarely within the mid-size sedan category. The 61-liter (16.11 US gal) fuel tank provides a substantial driving range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 217 km/h (134.84 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1523 kg (3357.64 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 487 kg (1073.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4596 mm (180.94 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Several levers and rods |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
The Opel Vectra C 1.9 CDTI, while not a performance icon, offered a compelling package of efficiency, practicality, and comfort for European drivers. Its robust diesel engine, combined with a well-equipped interior and spacious cabin, made it a popular choice in the mid-size segment.
