Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra G Classic |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 TD (68 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 1998 |
| End of production | January, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.1 kg/Hp, 58.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm, 113.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 40 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 2400 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | X17DTL |
| Engine displacement | 1700 cm3 (103.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1685 kg (3714.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4252 mm (167.4 in.) |
| Width | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1967 mm (77.44 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 | 855 mm (33.66 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 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 | 5 gears, manual 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 | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 14 |
The Opel Astra G Classic 1.7 TD was a mainstay of the European compact car market from October 1998 to January 2000. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the broader Astra G Classic range – which included hatchback, saloon/sedan, and estate/wagon body styles – this variant prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability. It was a key model for buyers seeking economical transportation, particularly in countries where diesel fuel was heavily favored. The Astra G Classic itself represented a significant update to the original Astra G, offering revised styling and improved interior appointments while retaining the core mechanical underpinnings of the T-Car platform.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra G Classic 1.7 TD was the X17DTL engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common technology for diesel engines of the era, which improved combustion efficiency and reduced noise compared to direct injection systems. A turbocharger was employed to boost power output to 68 horsepower and 132 Nm (97.36 lb-ft) of torque. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The transmission was a standard five-speed manual gearbox, optimized for fuel economy rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 TD version of the Astra G Classic was not known for its blistering acceleration. With a 0-60 mph time of around 16.2 seconds, it was decidedly geared towards practicality. The turbocharger did provide a noticeable boost in power at lower engine speeds, aiding in everyday driving situations like merging onto highways or overtaking slower traffic. However, the engine lacked the responsiveness of higher-output variants. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering a reasonable spread of gears for maintaining optimal fuel economy and keeping the engine within its peak torque band. Compared to the more powerful 1.8-liter petrol versions or the 2.0-liter diesel, the 1.7 TD offered a significantly more economical driving experience, but at the expense of performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 TD typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras, such as air conditioning, electric windows, and an upgraded audio system, were available, but added to the overall cost. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally focused on adding cosmetic enhancements like different wheel covers or interior trim materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra G Classic 1.7 TD utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension was a semi-independent coil spring arrangement. Braking was accomplished via ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The chassis was tuned to prioritize ride comfort and stability over sporty handling, reflecting the car’s intended role as a practical and economical family vehicle.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra G Classic 1.7 TD was generally well-received by critics as a sensible and affordable option in the compact car segment. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was significantly cheaper than petrol. However, its lack of performance was often noted. Compared to the petrol-powered Astra G models, the 1.7 TD offered superior fuel economy but significantly less power. Against other diesel-powered competitors, such as the Volkswagen Golf TDI, the Astra G Classic 1.7 TD offered a competitive price point and a comparable level of fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The X17DTL engine, while not known for being particularly sophisticated, proved to be relatively reliable. Properly maintained examples of the Astra G Classic 1.7 TD can still be found on the road today, often with high mileage. In the used car market, these vehicles are valued for their affordability and fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to older diesel engines, such as turbocharger wear and potential problems with the fuel injection system. The Astra G Classic 1.7 TD represents a practical and economical choice for those seeking a no-frills, reliable compact car.
