Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H GTC (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp, 73.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z13DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1218 kg (2685.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1795 kg (3957.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 577 kg (1272.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1070 l (37.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Length | 4290 mm (168.9 in.) |
| Width | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2033 mm (80.04 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2614 mm (102.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 766 mm (30.16 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
The Opel Astra H GTC 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC was a front-wheel-drive, three-door hatchback produced from 2007 to 2010 as part of the Astra H facelift series. Positioned as an entry-level diesel offering within the GTC range, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for buyers prioritizing economy over outright speed. This variant occupied the lower end of the performance spectrum for the Astra H GTC, sitting below the more powerful petrol and diesel options like the 1.8L and 2.0L models. It was primarily sold in European markets, where compact hatchbacks with smaller displacement diesel engines were highly popular due to favorable taxation and fuel costs.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Astra H GTC 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC utilized the Z13DTH engine code, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was part of Opel/Fiat’s joint diesel engine program, known as the “Common Rail Diesel” (CRD) family. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and a common rail direct fuel injection system for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine employed a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. A six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, designed to optimize fuel economy and provide adequate acceleration. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 17.6:1 was typical for diesel engines, contributing to its efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 90 horsepower output and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque, available from 1750-2500 rpm, resulted in a driving experience focused on fuel economy rather than spirited performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.9 seconds, and top speed was limited to 174 km/h (108 mph). The six-speed manual transmission helped to keep the engine within its optimal torque band, but overtaking maneuvers required careful planning. Compared to the more powerful 1.8L petrol or 2.0L diesel variants, the 1.3 CDTI felt noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded. However, the engine proved to be reasonably refined for its size, with acceptable levels of noise and vibration. The gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning the engine didn’t rev as freely as higher-performance options.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC typically came with a base level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features such as ABS and front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as Sport or Elegance, offered additional features like alloy wheels, upgraded upholstery, a multi-function steering wheel, and optional extras like parking sensors and a CD player. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively basic design.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H GTC 1.3 CDTI utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employed a torsion beam, which was a cost-effective solution for maintaining ride quality. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra H GTC 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and low running costs. However, its performance was often criticized as being underwhelming, particularly when compared to more powerful alternatives. Fuel economy figures of around 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) were a major selling point. Compared to the 1.8L petrol version, the 1.3 CDTI offered significantly better fuel economy but considerably less power. The 2.0L diesel provided a better balance of performance and economy, but at a higher price point. Reliability was generally good, with the Z13DTH engine proving to be a robust unit.
Legacy
The Opel Astra H GTC 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC remains a relatively common sight on European roads today. The Z13DTH engine has proven to be reasonably durable, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system. In the used car market, this variant represents an affordable and economical option for buyers seeking a compact hatchback. While not known for its performance, its fuel efficiency and low running costs continue to make it an attractive choice for those prioritizing practicality and value. It served as a practical and economical choice for drivers needing a compact car, and its engine, while not powerful, proved to be reliable with proper care.
