The Opel Astra G 2.0 Ecotec 16V Automatic, produced between March 1998 and June 2000, represented a mid-range offering within the popular Astra G (1998-2004) generation. Positioned above the base 1.4 and 1.6-liter models, and below the more performance-oriented variants like the GSi, this configuration aimed to provide a balance of power, comfort, and fuel efficiency for European drivers. The Astra G itself was a significant model for Opel, building upon the success of its predecessors and introducing a more refined and modern design. It was a key competitor in the compact family car segment, facing rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 306.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra G |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 Ecotec 16V (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | March, 1998 |
| End of production | June, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 224 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 153.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 188 Nm @ 3200 rpm (138.66 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X20XEV |
| 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 | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1225 kg (2700.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1725 kg (3802.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1180 l (41.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4110 mm (161.81 in.) |
| Width | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1989 mm (78.31 in.) |
| Height | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2606 mm (102.6 in.) |
| Front track | 1464 mm (57.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Front overhang | 791 mm (31.14 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 713 mm (28.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 ET45 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant was the X20XEV, a 1998cc (121.93 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine. This engine belonged to Opel’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The X20XEV featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively high power output for its displacement. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produced 136 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 188 Nm (138.66 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3200 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission. While not offering the sportiness of a manual gearbox, this automatic provided smooth shifts and ease of use, appealing to drivers prioritizing comfort. The transmission was designed to work with the engine’s torque curve, offering adequate acceleration for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 Ecotec Automatic Astra G offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10 seconds, which was respectable for the era but noticeably slower than the manual transmission or higher-powered versions. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did result in some power loss compared to the manual. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than outright performance. In real-world conditions, the car felt capable on the highway and around town, but lacked the responsiveness needed for spirited driving. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 Ecotec Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included central locking, power windows, power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard configuration was fairly standard for the time, with a functional layout and clear instrumentation. Optional extras could include air conditioning, a sunroof, alloy wheels, and a CD player. The specific trim level (e.g., Comfort, Elegance) determined the extent of standard features and available options.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra G utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front, providing good handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension was a semi-independent coil spring setup. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between handling and ride quality, making it suitable for a wide range of driving conditions. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 Ecotec Automatic Astra G was generally well-received by critics as a practical and comfortable family car. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission dulled the engine’s performance compared to the manual version. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with combined figures around 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg). Compared to the 1.8-liter models, the 2.0 offered more power and a more refined driving experience, but at a higher price point. The 2.0 was also more expensive to maintain than the smaller-engined variants, due to the increased complexity of the engine and transmission.
Legacy
The X20XEV engine, when properly maintained, proved to be a relatively reliable unit. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. The four-speed automatic transmission, while generally durable, could experience wear and tear over time. Today, the 2.0 Ecotec Automatic Astra G is a relatively affordable used car. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While not a performance icon, it remains a practical and comfortable choice for everyday transportation, and a representative example of late 1990s European automotive engineering.
