The Vauxhall VX220, specifically the 2.0 16V Turbo variant produced between 2004 and 2005, represents a focused and engaging sports car offering from the British manufacturer. Positioned in the competitive roadster segment, the VX220 aimed to deliver a pure driving experience, prioritizing performance and handling over outright luxury. While not officially sold in the United States, the VX220 is a noteworthy vehicle for its innovative mid-engine layout and its contribution to the evolution of affordable sports cars in Europe.
Vauxhall VX220: A British Roadster
The VX220 was Vauxhall’s answer to the Porsche Boxster and Audi TT, offering a more accessible entry point into the mid-engine roadster market. It was built in Luton, England, and shared its platform with the Opel Speedster, marketed under the Opel brand in mainland Europe. The VX220 distinguished itself with a focus on lightweight construction and a turbocharged engine, providing a compelling blend of performance and value. The model range included naturally aspirated 2.2-liter versions, but the 2.0-liter turbocharged model, producing 200 horsepower, is considered the most desirable by enthusiasts.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the VX220 2.0 16V Turbo lies the Z20LET, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler. This engine generates 200 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1950 rpm. The power-to-weight ratio of 4.7 kg/Hp (215.1 Hp/tonne) and torque-to-weight ratio of 3.7 kg/Nm (268.8 Nm/tonne) contribute to its spirited performance. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Coupled with a five-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, the VX220 achieves a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 150.99 mph (243 km/h). Fuel economy is rated at 27.7 US mpg combined (8.5 l/100 km), with 36.2 US mpg (6.5 l/100 km) on the extra urban cycle and 19.8 US mpg (11.9 l/100 km) in urban conditions. CO2 emissions are rated at 202 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The VX220 boasts a striking and aerodynamic roadster design. Its mid-engine layout necessitated a compact chassis, resulting in a relatively short wheelbase of 91.73 inches (2330 mm) and an overall length of 149.21 inches (3790 mm). The body is constructed primarily of composite materials, contributing to its low kerb weight of 2050.3 lbs (930 kg). The two-seater cabin is focused on the driver, with a minimalist interior design. Standard features included ABS (Anti-lock braking system), ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels (288mm diameter), and a steering rack and pinion system. The VX220’s suspension utilizes a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer both front and rear, providing responsive handling. Trunk space is limited to 7.06 cu. ft. (200 l), typical for a focused sports car. The vehicle rides on 17-inch wheels, with 175/55 R17 tires at the front and 225/45 R17 tires at the rear.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | VX220 |
| Generation | VX220 |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 16V Turbo (200 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 202 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 243 km/h (150.99 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1950 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1950 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Z20LET |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.2 l (13.95 US qt | 11.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 930 kg (2050.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 220 kg (485.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 200 l (7.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 36 l (9.51 US gal | 7.92 UK gal) |
| Length | 3790 mm (149.21 in.) |
| Width | 1708 mm (67.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1884 mm (74.17 in.) |
| Height | 1112 mm (43.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2330 mm (91.73 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1494 mm (58.82 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.25 m (36.91 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 288 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 288 mm |
| Front tires | 175/55 R17 |
| Rear tires | 225/45 R17 |
The Vauxhall VX220 2.0 16V Turbo, while never officially available in the US market, remains a compelling example of a lightweight, performance-focused roadster. Its mid-engine layout, turbocharged power plant, and engaging driving dynamics have earned it a dedicated following among sports car enthusiasts. It represents a unique chapter in Vauxhall’s history and a testament to the appeal of a pure, driver-centric sports car experience.
