The Opel Zafira B 1.8i 16V, produced from 2005 to 2008, represents the second generation of Opel’s popular compact minivan. Designed to compete in the European family vehicle market, the Zafira B offered a flexible seven-seat configuration and a focus on practicality. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira line, and particularly the B generation, was a significant player in the European MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment, known for its versatility and innovative features. This model aimed to provide a comfortable and spacious environment for families, blending functionality with a relatively affordable price point.
Opel Zafira B 1.8i 16V: An Overview
The Zafira B built upon the success of the original Zafira, introducing a more refined design and improved features. The 1.8i 16V variant, equipped with a 1.8-liter gasoline engine producing 140 horsepower, was a common choice for buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy. Its seven-seat layout, combined with a relatively compact footprint, made it a popular option for urban families and those needing occasional extra passenger capacity. The Zafira B’s design emphasized practicality and ease of use, with features like a flexible seating arrangement and ample storage space.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Zafira B 1.8i 16V is its 1796 cc (109.6 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the Z18XER. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 140 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 175 Nm (129.07 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration contributes to a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 10.7 kg/Hp. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 197 km/h (122.41 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) combined, with 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) in urban driving and 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) on the open road. CO2 emissions are rated at 182 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira B is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its body style prioritizes interior space and versatility. A key feature of the Zafira B is its flexible seating system, allowing for various configurations to maximize cargo space or passenger comfort. The rear seats can be folded flat into the floor, creating a large, flat load area. The interior design is functional and practical, with a focus on durability and ease of cleaning. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The Zafira B’s exterior styling is characterized by its rounded lines and relatively compact dimensions for a seven-seater. The vehicle’s dimensions are: length 4467 mm (175.87 in), width 1801 mm (70.91 in), and height 1645 mm (64.76 in). The wheelbase measures 2703 mm (106.42 in). The drag coefficient is 0.31, contributing to reasonable aerodynamic efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira B |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8i 16V (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 3800 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z18XER |
| Engine displacement | 1796 cm3 (109.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.2 mm (3.47 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1503 kg (3313.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 577 kg (1272.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 140 l (4.94 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1820 l (64.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4467 mm (175.87 in.) |
| Width | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2703 mm (106.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J X 16 |
The Opel Zafira B 1.8i 16V offered a practical and versatile solution for families in Europe. Its combination of a spacious interior, flexible seating, and reasonable running costs made it a popular choice in the competitive minivan segment.
