The Opel Campo Single Cab 2.3 (94 hp) 4×4 was a utilitarian pickup truck produced between 1991 and 1995. Positioned as a workhorse vehicle, it represented Opel’s entry into the compact 4×4 pickup segment, primarily aimed at commercial and agricultural users. The Campo, based on the Isuzu Faster platform following GM’s partnership with Isuzu, offered a robust and affordable alternative to more established pickups in the European market. This specific 2.3-liter, 94 horsepower variant served as a mid-range offering within the Campo lineup, slotting below more powerful, though less common, engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Campo |
| Generation | Campo Single Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 (94 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 94 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 41.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2600 rpm / 125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | 4ZD1 |
| Engine displacement | 2255 cm3 / 137.61 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89.3 mm / 3.52 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm / 3.54 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l / 3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt |
| Coolant | 9 l / 9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt |
| Length | 4980 mm / 196.06 in. |
| Width | 1690 mm / 66.54 in. |
| Height | 1595 mm / 62.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3025 mm / 119.09 in. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | dependent spring suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Opel Campo 2.3 4×4 utilized the 4ZD1 engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, sourced from Isuzu as part of the GM-Isuzu partnership, was a relatively simple design featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a carburetor system, a common feature for vehicles of this era, prioritizing simplicity and reliability over outright performance. The 4ZD1 produced 94 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb-ft) of torque at 2600 rpm. The engine’s design emphasized low-end torque, making it suitable for hauling and off-road driving. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, providing a reasonable spread of gears for both on-road and off-road use.
Driving Characteristics
The Campo 2.3 4×4, with its 94 horsepower engine and manual transmission, offered modest performance. Acceleration was not a strong point, and the vehicle felt most comfortable at steady cruising speeds. The 4×4 system, selectable via a lever inside the cabin, provided enhanced traction on loose surfaces, making it capable in off-road conditions. The manual transmission allowed for greater control over the engine’s power delivery, particularly useful when navigating challenging terrain. Compared to potential higher-output engine options (which were less common in Europe), the 2.3-liter engine prioritized fuel economy and durability over outright speed. The gear ratios were tuned for utility, favoring torque over high-speed performance. The suspension, while adequate for typical road conditions, could feel somewhat firm when unladen.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Opel Campo Single Cab 2.3 4×4 was a fairly basic vehicle, reflecting its utilitarian purpose. Standard equipment typically included a vinyl interior, basic instrumentation, and a robust steel bed. Power steering was often included, but air conditioning and other comfort features were typically optional extras. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetics. Optional extras could include upgraded interior trim, a radio, and a more durable bed liner. The trim level was largely defined by the options selected, with the base model offering minimal frills.
Chassis & Braking
The Campo’s chassis was a body-on-frame construction, providing a high degree of durability and off-road capability. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, offering a degree of ride comfort, while the rear suspension employed a dependent leaf spring setup, designed to handle heavier loads. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. This configuration was typical for pickups of this era and provided adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and intended use. The 4×4 system employed a part-time four-wheel drive setup, allowing the driver to engage or disengage four-wheel drive as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Campo 2.3 4×4 was generally well-received as a practical and affordable pickup truck. Critics praised its robust construction and off-road capability, but noted its relatively modest performance and basic interior. Compared to other pickups in the European market, such as the Toyota Hilux and the Nissan Datsun, the Campo offered a competitive price point. However, it lacked the refinement and broader feature set of some of its rivals. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its type, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, thanks to the simplicity of the engine and drivetrain.
Legacy
The Opel Campo, while not a long-lived model, established Opel as a player in the compact 4×4 pickup segment. The 2.3-liter 4ZD1 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant, and many examples remain on the road today. In the used car market, the Campo 2.3 4×4 is valued for its simplicity, affordability, and off-road capability. While it may not offer the comfort or features of more modern pickups, it remains a popular choice for those seeking a rugged and dependable workhorse vehicle. Its legacy lies in providing a no-nonsense, affordable 4×4 solution for a specific segment of the European market.
