The Vauxhall Vectra C 1.9 CDTi ECOTEC (150 Hp), produced between 2004 and 2005, 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 balance practicality, comfort, and performance within the competitive D-segment. While the Vectra nameplate has been discontinued in the UK (replaced by the Insignia), the C generation, particularly the CDTi diesel variants, offered a compelling package for buyers seeking an efficient and capable saloon. It’s important to note that Vauxhall is the British brand of Opel, and the Vectra C is essentially the Opel Vectra C sold under a different badge. This model was never officially sold in the United States, but understanding its specifications provides insight into the European automotive landscape of the mid-2000s.
Vauxhall Vectra C 1.9 CDTi ECOTEC: A Detailed Overview
The Vectra C was designed to address the evolving needs of family car buyers, offering increased space, improved safety features, and a more refined driving experience compared to its predecessor. The 1.9 CDTi ECOTEC variant specifically targeted those prioritizing fuel efficiency and torque, making it suitable for long-distance driving and everyday commuting. The “ECOTEC” designation signified Vauxhall/Opel’s commitment to engine technology focused on reducing emissions and maximizing fuel economy.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C 1.9 CDTi lies the Z19DTH, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2,000 and 2,750 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to both power output and reduced emissions. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio of 8.7 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 4.1 kg/Nm provide brisk acceleration and confident overtaking capabilities. The engine’s 18:1 compression ratio is typical for a direct injection diesel, maximizing combustion efficiency. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The six-speed manual transmission allows for efficient cruising and responsive gear changes. Maximum speed is rated at 217 km/h (134.84 mph).
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Vectra C 1.9 CDTi is a four-door saloon (sedan) offering seating for five passengers. Its design, while not overtly sporty, is characterized by clean lines and a relatively understated aesthetic. The Vectra C represented a move towards a more contemporary design language for Vauxhall, with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency, evidenced by its drag coefficient of 0.28. Interior space is generous, with a trunk (boot) capacity ranging from 500 liters (17.66 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1050 liters (37.08 cu. ft.) when folded down. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4611 mm (181.54 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 saloon segment. The wheelbase of 2700 mm (106.3 in.) contributes to a stable and comfortable ride.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTi ECOTEC (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 157 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 217 km/h (134.84 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 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 |
| Drive wheel | 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 1.9 CDTi ECOTEC, while not a performance icon, offered a practical and efficient solution for families and commuters in Europe. Its blend of fuel economy, comfortable ride, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice in its segment. Although it never reached American shores, its technical specifications and design reflect the advancements in European automotive engineering during the early 2000s.
