The Opel Vectra C 2.2 DTI, produced between 2002 and 2004, represents a significant iteration in Opel’s mid-size family car lineage. As a member of the Vectra C generation (introduced in 2002), 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 competed in the same segment as vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, offering a spacious sedan body style and a range of engine options, including the 2.2-liter direct injection turbodiesel featured here. This particular variant, with its 125 horsepower output, was geared towards drivers prioritizing fuel economy and reasonable performance for everyday commuting and longer journeys.
Opel Vectra C 2.2 DTI: An Overview
The Vectra C marked a departure from previous generations, featuring a more modern and aerodynamic design. It was intended to appeal to a broader audience, with a focus on improved build quality and a more refined driving experience. The 2.2 DTI model specifically targeted buyers seeking the benefits of diesel power – namely, its fuel efficiency and torque – without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. The Vectra C was a key model for Opel in Europe, representing their attempt to gain market share in the competitive D-segment.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C 2.2 DTI lies a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the Y22DTR. This engine utilizes direct injection technology and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a power output of 125 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1500 rpm. The common rail diesel injection system contributes to improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration were standard for this class of vehicle in Europe. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.8 seconds and a maximum speed of 206 km/h (128 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 12 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.4 kg/Nm demonstrate a reasonable balance between engine output and vehicle mass. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra C 2.2 DTI is a four-door sedan offering seating for five passengers. Its design language was characterized by flowing lines and a relatively understated aesthetic, typical of European cars of the early 2000s. The interior focused on providing a comfortable and practical environment, with a focus on ergonomics and usability. Standard features included power windows, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Safety features, increasingly important in this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front ventilated disc brakes, with discs also used for the rear brakes. The trunk offered a generous amount of space, ranging from 500 liters (17.66 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1050 liters (37.08 cu. ft.) with them 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.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 DTI (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | September, 2002 |
| End of production | November, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 206 km/h (128 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Y22DTR |
| Engine displacement | 2171 cm3 (132.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1503 kg (3313.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1995 kg (4398.22 lbs.) |
| Max load | 492 kg (1084.67 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 track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 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 2.2 DTI, while not a performance icon, offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and comfortable mid-size sedan. Its blend of diesel power, spacious interior, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice in its segment.
