The Opel Combo Tour C (facelifted in 2003) 1.6i, producing 97 horsepower, represented an entry-level offering within the Combo Tour C range. Introduced as part of the facelift, this variant aimed to provide an affordable and practical transportation solution for families and commercial users. Production spanned from 2003 to June 2004. The Combo Tour C itself was based on the shared GM/Fiat platform, also underpinning vehicles like the Fiat Doblo and Renault Kangoo, and was Opel’s entry into the compact leisure activity vehicle (LAV) segment. This particular 1.6i engine and transmission combination was positioned as the base model, prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Combo |
| Generation | Combo Tour C (facelift 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (97 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | June, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg, 28 UK mpg, 9.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp, 74.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.4 kg/Nm, 106.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 97 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 138 Nm @ 3000 rpm (101.78 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z16SE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.5 l (3.7 US qt | 3.08 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1295 kg (2854.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4322 mm (170.16 in.) |
| Width | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1892 mm (74.49 in.) |
| Height | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2716 mm (106.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Rear track | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Front overhang | 747 mm (29.41 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 859 mm (33.82 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| 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 | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Combo Tour C 1.6i utilized the Opel Z16SE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was a common sight in various Opel/Vauxhall models of the era, known for its relative simplicity and affordability. The Z16SE featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing adequate, though not exceptional, performance. The engine’s 97 horsepower output at 6200 rpm and 138 Nm (101.78 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm were considered modest, even for the time. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a reasonable balance between fuel economy and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6i engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, delivered a practical, if uninspiring, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 14 seconds, making it noticeably slower than higher-powered versions of the Combo Tour C. The power delivery was relatively linear, but required frequent gear changes to maintain momentum, especially when loaded or tackling inclines. Compared to the more powerful 1.7L diesel or even the later 1.8L petrol variants, the 1.6i felt underpowered. However, its lighter weight and simpler mechanicals contributed to better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. The gear ratios were tuned for economy rather than performance, prioritizing fuel efficiency over rapid acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6i variant of the Combo Tour C typically came with a basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, design. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level was generally considered the entry-level offering, aimed at budget-conscious buyers. It lacked many of the comfort and convenience features found in higher-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The Combo Tour C 1.6i utilized a relatively simple chassis setup. Front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a semi-independent coil spring arrangement. This setup provided a comfortable ride, but didn’t offer particularly sporty handling characteristics. The braking system featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned for a balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity, reflecting the vehicle’s dual role as both a family vehicle and a light commercial vehicle.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Combo Tour C 1.6i was generally well-received as an affordable and practical vehicle. Critics acknowledged its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but often noted its lack of performance. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.6i offered a quieter and smoother driving experience, but at the expense of fuel economy and torque. Against the more powerful petrol engines, it provided a more economical option, but lacked the same level of performance. It was often seen as a sensible choice for buyers who prioritized practicality and affordability over driving excitement.
Legacy
The Z16SE engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be a relatively reliable unit. Long-term reliability is generally good, with common issues being relatively minor and inexpensive to repair. In the used car market, the Combo Tour C 1.6i remains an affordable option for those seeking a practical and economical vehicle. Its simplicity and readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal. While not a collector’s item, it represents a solid and dependable choice for those needing a no-frills, functional vehicle.
