The Vauxhall Vectra B CC 2.0 Di 16V, produced between 1996 and 1998, represents a significant iteration in Vauxhall’s mid-size family car lineage. As part of the Vectra B generation, the “CC” denotes a coupe-cabriolet body style, offering a more sporting aesthetic than the traditional saloon or hatchback versions. While not widely sold in the United States, the Vectra was a popular choice in Europe, competing with models like the Ford Mondeo and Peugeot 406. This particular variant, powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with reasonable performance for the era.
Vauxhall Vectra B CC 2.0 Di 16V: An Overview
The Vectra B, launched in 1995, was a crucial model for Vauxhall (owned by General Motors at the time). It represented a substantial step forward in terms of design, technology, and build quality compared to its predecessor, the Vectra A. The CC version, with its retractable hardtop, offered a unique proposition – the open-air enjoyment of a convertible with the security and practicality of a coupe. The 2.0 Di 16V engine was a key component of the Vectra B range, providing a diesel option for those prioritizing economy and lower running costs.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Vectra B CC 2.0 Di 16V is a 1,994 cc (121.68 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the X20DTL. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. It produces 82 horsepower (Hp) and 185 Newton-meters (136.45 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1800 rpm. While the horsepower figure might seem modest by modern standards, the diesel engine’s torque characteristics provide reasonable drivability.
Performance figures reflect the engine’s focus on efficiency rather than outright speed. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 15.5 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 14.7 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 178 km/h (110.6 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l). CO2 emissions are listed at 156 g/km.
Design & Features
The Vectra B CC is a five-seater, five-door hatchback distinguished by its retractable hardtop. This feature allows the car to transform from a coupe to a convertible at the touch of a button, offering versatility. The design of the B-series Vectra was considered modern for its time, with flowing lines and a relatively aerodynamic profile.
Safety features, while not as comprehensive as those found in contemporary vehicles, included ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The car rides on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 5.5J x 15 steel wheels. Interior features were typical for a mid-range family car of the late 1990s, focusing on practicality and comfort. Trunk space is a useful 480 liters (16.95 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 790 liters (27.9 cu. ft.) when folded down. The fuel tank capacity is 60 liters (15.85 US gal, 13.2 UK gal).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra B CC |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 Di 16V (82 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 156 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.3 kg/Hp, 61.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 82 Hp |
| Power per litre | 41.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 1800 rpm (136.45 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X20DTL |
| Engine displacement | 1994 cm3 (121.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1335 kg (2943.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 790 l (27.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4495 mm (176.97 in.) |
| Width | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1841 mm (72.48 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1484 mm (58.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 |
The Vauxhall Vectra B CC 2.0 Di 16V, while not a performance icon, offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a versatile, economical, and stylish family car. Its combination of a diesel engine, retractable hardtop, and practical hatchback body style made it a unique and popular choice in its segment.
