The Vauxhall Vectra C 3.0 V6 CDTi 24V ECOTEC, produced between 2005 and 2008, represents a significant iteration in Vauxhall’s mid-size family car lineage. As part of the Vectra C generation (2002-2008), this model aimed to provide a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance, particularly appealing to buyers seeking a diesel-powered alternative with enhanced refinement. While the Vectra nameplate was discontinued in the UK in 2008, replaced by the Insignia, the Vectra C held a prominent position in the British market as a popular fleet and family vehicle. It’s important to note that Vauxhall is the British brand equivalent of Opel, and the Vectra C was widely sold as the Opel Vectra across continental Europe.
Vauxhall Vectra C 3.0 V6 CDTi: An Overview
The Vectra C 3.0 V6 CDTi occupied the mid-size segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 407. It was offered primarily as a four-door sedan, with estate (station wagon) versions also available in some European markets. The “CDTi” designation signifies a Common-rail Diesel Turbo Injection engine, highlighting the advanced fuel injection technology employed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. This particular variant, with its 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, was positioned as a premium offering within the Vectra C range, providing a more powerful and refined driving experience compared to the four-cylinder diesel options.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra C 3.0 V6 CDTi is its 2,958 cc (180.51 cu. in.) V6 diesel engine, designated the Z30DT. This engine produces 184 horsepower (Hp) at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 400 Newton-meters (295.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,900 and 2,700 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler, enhancing power output and efficiency. The engine’s common-rail direct injection system delivers fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure, optimizing combustion and reducing noise. This powertrain delivers a maximum speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 7.1 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 3.3 kg/Nm contribute to responsive acceleration and confident overtaking capabilities. The engine’s 18.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, maximizing efficiency. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, providing precise gear changes and contributing to the vehicle’s overall driving dynamics.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Vectra C sedan is a traditionally styled four-door vehicle with a focus on practicality and comfort. Its design, while not overtly sporty, is clean and modern for its time. The interior offers seating for five passengers and provides a reasonable level of space for both occupants and luggage. The trunk (boot) offers a minimum capacity of 500 liters (17.66 cu. ft.), expanding to 1,050 liters (37.08 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, reflecting the growing importance of safety technology in the mid-2000s. The Vectra C also featured independent suspension – McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear – designed to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4,611 mm (181.54 in.) in length, 1,798 mm (70.79 in.) in width, and 1,460 mm (57.48 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,700 mm (106.3 in.). A drag coefficient of 0.28 contributes to aerodynamic efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 V6 CDTi 24V ECOTEC (184 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 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) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 186 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1900-2700 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1900-2700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z30DT |
| Engine displacement | 2958 cm3 (180.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4611 mm (181.54 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2036 mm (80.16 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
The Vauxhall Vectra C 3.0 V6 CDTi 24V ECOTEC offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a refined, efficient, and capable mid-size family car. Its powerful diesel engine, comfortable interior, and practical features made it a popular choice in the European market during its production run.
