The Opel Vectra C (facelift 2005) 3.0 CDTI represents a significant iteration of Opel’s mid-size offering, produced from 2006 to 2008. Positioned as a direct competitor to vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the Vectra C aimed to provide a blend of comfort, practicality, and performance. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular choice in Europe, known for its spacious interior and relatively affordable price point. The facelifted version, introduced in 2005, brought styling updates and, crucially, a range of more efficient and powerful diesel engines, including the 3.0 CDTI variant detailed here.
Opel Vectra C: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra C facelift was Opel’s attempt to modernize and refine a model that had been in production for several years. The changes extended beyond cosmetic updates, with improvements made to the interior, chassis, and engine lineup. The 3.0 CDTI model, equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine, was positioned as the performance-oriented option within the range, offering a compelling combination of power and fuel economy. It was a key model for Opel in the European market, appealing to drivers seeking a comfortable and capable family sedan.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C 3.0 CDTI lies a 2.958-liter V6 diesel engine, designated the Z30DT. This engine produces 184 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The direct injection system and turbocharger with intercooler contribute to both its power output and efficiency. Power delivery is smooth and responsive, making it well-suited for both city driving and long-distance cruising. The engine’s specific output of 62.2 horsepower per liter demonstrates its relatively high level of engineering refinement.
Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration allows for precise control and contributes to the car’s respectable performance figures. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.9 seconds, while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in a calculated 8.5 seconds. The Vectra C 3.0 CDTI boasts a maximum speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 8.5 kg/hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 3.9 kg/Nm further highlight the engine’s capability.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra C facelift is a four-door sedan with a traditional three-box design. The exterior styling was updated with a revised front fascia, new headlights, and a redesigned grille, giving it a more modern and aggressive appearance. The interior offered a comfortable and spacious cabin for five passengers. Key features included a well-equipped dashboard, supportive seats, and a reasonably sized trunk with a capacity of 500 liters (17.66 cubic feet).
Safety features were becoming increasingly important during this period, and the Vectra C included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. While lacking some of the advanced safety technologies found in modern vehicles, it provided a reasonable level of protection for its occupants. The car’s suspension, featuring independent coil springs on both the front and rear axles, prioritized ride comfort while still offering decent handling characteristics. The standard tire size was 215/55 R16, mounted on 16-inch wheels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C (facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 CDTI (184 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2006 |
| End of production | June, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z30DT |
| Engine displacement | 2958 cm3 (180.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4611 mm (181.54 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Vectra C 3.0 CDTI, while not a vehicle commonly found in the United States, represented a well-rounded and capable offering in the European mid-size sedan segment. Its combination of a powerful diesel engine, comfortable interior, and practical features made it a popular choice for families and drivers seeking a versatile vehicle.
