The Opel Zafira B, produced from 2005 to 2008, represents the second generation of Opel’s popular minivan. This seven-seater vehicle was a key offering in the European market, competing with models like the Renault Scenic and Citroën Picasso. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira B exemplifies the European preference for compact, versatile multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs). The 1.9 CDTI variant, equipped with a 150 horsepower diesel engine and automatic transmission, was a common configuration, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and practicality for family transport.
Opel Zafira B 1.9 CDTI: An Overview
The Zafira B built upon the innovative features of its predecessor, most notably its Flex7 seating system, allowing for flexible configuration of the rear seats to maximize cargo space or passenger capacity. The 1.9 CDTI engine was a mainstay of Opel’s diesel lineup during this period, known for its robust performance and relatively low emissions. The introduction of the automatic transmission broadened the Zafira B’s appeal to drivers seeking convenience alongside its inherent practicality.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Zafira B 1.9 CDTI is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated Z19DTH. This engine produces 150 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a Diesel Commonrail injection system, contributing to refined combustion and reduced noise. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5 kg/Nm. Coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Zafira B 1.9 CDTI achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 10.2 seconds. Its maximum speed is 198 km/h (123 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg), 9.8 l/100 km in urban settings, and 5.7 l/100 km on the open road.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira B is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its body style prioritizes practicality and space efficiency. The Flex7 seating system is a defining feature, allowing the second and third-row seats to be folded flat or even removed entirely, creating a large, flat cargo area. The interior design focuses on functionality, with a driver-centric layout and ample storage compartments. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The Zafira B’s dimensions are 4467 mm (175.87 in) in length, 1801 mm (70.91 in) in width, and 1645 mm (64.76 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2703 mm (106.42 in). The drag coefficient is 0.31. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 140 liters (4.94 cu ft) with all seats in use to a maximum of 1820 liters (64.27 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira B |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| 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 | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 1613 kg (3556.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2190 kg (4828.12 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 | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 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 | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic 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 |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J X 16 |
The Opel Zafira B 1.9 CDTI offered a compelling package for European families seeking a versatile and economical vehicle. Its flexible seating, efficient diesel engine, and practical design made it a popular choice in its segment.
