The Opel Vectra C 1.9 CDTI Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2005, represents a significant iteration in Opel’s mid-size family car lineage. As a member of the Vectra C generation (2002-2008), it aimed to provide a blend of comfort, practicality, and modern technology within the European D-segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular choice in Europe as a competitor to vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 407. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.9-liter turbocharged diesel engine and an automatic transmission, catered to drivers seeking fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising.
Opel Vectra C 1.9 CDTI: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra C was Opel’s attempt to move upmarket and offer a more refined experience compared to its predecessors. It featured a more spacious interior, improved ride quality, and a wider range of engine options. The 1.9 CDTI model, with its common-rail diesel injection and turbocharging, was a key component of that strategy, offering a compelling balance of performance and economy. The automatic transmission further enhanced its appeal to buyers prioritizing convenience.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C 1.9 CDTI lies the Z19DTH, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to boost power and efficiency. The engine’s common-rail direct injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both performance and reduced emissions. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Vectra C 1.9 CDTI achieves a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time of 10 seconds and a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.2 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.8 kg/Nm demonstrate a reasonable balance between engine output and vehicle mass. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle figures of 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra C is a four-door sedan with a relatively conservative, yet modern, design for its time. Its styling aimed for a sophisticated and understated appearance. The interior focused on providing a comfortable and practical space for five occupants. Key features included a spacious trunk with a capacity ranging from 500 to 1050 liters (17.66 to 37.08 cubic feet) depending on the rear seat configuration. Safety features, increasingly important in the early 2000s, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The suspension setup, featuring a spring strut front and a multi-link rear, was tuned for a comfortable ride. 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 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 6.5J x 15 wheels provided a balance of grip and ride comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.5 Hp/l |
| 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 drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic 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 Automatic, while not a performance icon, offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a comfortable, practical, and fuel-efficient family sedan. Its blend of modern technology, spacious interior, and refined driving experience made it a popular choice in a competitive segment.
