Opel Signum 3.2i V6 24V ECOTEC (211 Hp)

Opel Signum 3.2i V6 24V ECOTEC (211 Hp)

The Opel Signum, specifically the 3.2i V6 24V ECOTEC (211 Hp) variant, represents a distinctive and ambitious offering from the German automaker Opel during the early 2000s. Launched in May 2003, the Signum was positioned as a premium executive hatchback, designed primarily for the European market. It aimed to bridge the gap between traditional sedans and station wagons, offering enhanced rear passenger comfort and exceptional versatility within a sophisticated package. Built on the extended platform of the Opel Vectra C, the Signum distinguished itself with a unique “crossover estate” body style that prioritized interior space and flexibility, particularly for rear occupants. This particular model, with its potent 3.2-liter V6 engine, served as the flagship performance variant, combining robust power with Opel’s commitment to refined driving dynamics and innovative packaging.

Engineering and Performance of the Opel Signum

At the heart of the Opel Signum 3.2i V6 24V ECOTEC lay a formidable 3.2-liter (3175 cm³ or 193.75 cu. in.) naturally aspirated V6 engine, code-named Z32SE. This powerplant was a testament to Opel’s ECOTEC (Emissions COntrol TEChnology) philosophy, balancing performance with relative efficiency for its class and era. The engine featured a V-configuration with six cylinders, each boasting four valves, totaling 24 valves for optimal breathing. A Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain ensured precise control over the intake and exhaust cycles, contributing to its smooth operation and strong power delivery.

With a compression ratio of 10:1 and a multi-port manifold injection system, the engine produced a robust 211 horsepower (Hp) at 6200 revolutions per minute (rpm). This translated to a power output of 66.5 Hp per liter, a respectable figure for a naturally aspirated V6 of its time. Torque was equally impressive, peaking at 221.27 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) at a usable 4000 rpm, providing ample pulling power across a broad rev range. This strong torque figure, combined with a kerb weight of 3549.44 lbs. (1610 kg), resulted in a favorable weight-to-power ratio of 7.6 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.4 kg/Nm, indicating responsive acceleration.

Power was channeled to the front wheels via a precise 5-speed manual transmission, offering an engaging driving experience. This powertrain architecture allowed the Opel Signum 3.2i V6 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 7.5 seconds, with 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) achieved in 7.9 seconds. Its top speed was rated at 147.26 mph (237 km/h), making it a capable performer on European highways. Fuel economy figures for this V6 model were reported as 16.4 US mpg in urban conditions, 30.9 US mpg on extra-urban cycles, and a combined average of 23.3 US mpg (10.1 l/100 km), which was competitive for a large, powerful executive car of its generation.

Design and Features: The Versatile Opel Signum

The Opel Signum’s design philosophy revolved around maximizing interior space and versatility, distinguishing it from more conventional sedans. Classified as a 5-door hatchback, its extended wheelbase of 111.42 inches (2830 mm) – shared with the long-wheelbase Vectra Caravan – was a key enabler for its spacious cabin. The overall length measured 182.52 inches (4636 mm), with a width of 70.79 inches (1798 mm) and a height of 57.72 inches (1466 mm). These dimensions, combined with a relatively low drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.33, contributed to both its spaciousness and aerodynamic efficiency.

Internally, the Signum was designed for five occupants, though its most innovative features were concentrated in the rear. Opel offered a “FlexSpace” seating system, which allowed the two outer rear seats to slide forward and backward, recline, and even be folded flat individually. A central console, often referred to as a “Travel Assistant,” could be installed between the rear seats, providing amenities like a cool box, cup holders, and multimedia connections, enhancing the executive travel experience. This focus on rear passenger comfort and adaptability was a core differentiator for the Signum.

Standard features included a robust suspension system with coil springs at both the front and rear, providing a comfortable yet composed ride. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on both axles, ensuring strong stopping power, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The steering system utilized a hydraulic rack and pinion setup, offering precise and responsive control. The vehicle rode on 215/55 R16 tires mounted on 6.5J x 16-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort. With a minimum trunk space of 12.89 cu. ft. (365 liters) and a maximum capacity of 49.79 cu. ft. (1410 liters) with the rear seats folded, the Signum offered substantial cargo flexibility for its segment.

Technical Specifications: Opel Signum 3.2i V6 24V ECOTEC (211 Hp)

Legacy and Market Impact: The Opel Signum’s Unique Position

The Opel Signum 3.2i V6 24V ECOTEC, along with its less powerful siblings, represented Opel’s ambitious attempt to innovate within the executive car segment in Europe. Its primary market was continental Europe and the UK, where it was sold as a Vauxhall Signum. The car’s unique “large hatchback” or “crossover estate” body style was a deliberate effort to offer something different from the traditional sedan and wagon offerings that dominated the D-segment.

In terms of competition, the Signum found itself in a challenging position. While its extended wheelbase and focus on rear passenger comfort aimed to differentiate it, it still competed indirectly with established players like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, Renault Laguna, and even entry-level premium models such as the BMW 3 Series Touring and Audi A4 Avant. These rivals often offered more conventional styling or stronger brand prestige in the executive segment. The Signum’s unique styling, while innovative, proved to be polarizing, and it struggled to achieve significant sales volumes compared to its more conventional competitors.

Despite its limited commercial success, the Opel Signum holds a notable place in Opel’s history. It showcased the brand’s willingness to experiment with body architectures and prioritize interior versatility and passenger comfort. The 3.2-liter V6 variant, in particular, demonstrated Opel’s capability to produce a refined and powerful executive cruiser. Its relatively short production run for this specific engine (May 2003 to June 2005) indicates that it remained a niche product, appealing to a specific demographic that valued its unique blend of space, comfort, and performance over traditional styling cues. Today, the Signum is remembered as an interesting, albeit misunderstood, chapter in Opel’s quest to offer innovative and comfortable vehicles in the competitive European market.