Introduction: The Opel Vectra A 2.0i 16V (150 Hp) 4×4 – A European Pioneer
The Opel Vectra A, introduced in 1988, marked a significant chapter in the history of General Motors’ European subsidiary, Opel. Positioned in the highly competitive European D-segment (mid-size car category), the Vectra A succeeded the long-running Opel Ascona. It quickly established itself as a cornerstone of Opel’s lineup, renowned for its modern styling, practical design, and a comprehensive range of engines and trim levels. While not sold under the Opel badge in the United States, its platform derivatives and engineering principles found their way into various GM models globally, making it an influential design.
Among the various configurations offered, the Opel Vectra A 2.0i 16V (150 Hp) 4×4, produced specifically between 1989 and 1990, represented a particularly advanced and performance-oriented variant. This model combined a potent multi-valve engine with an innovative all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, offering enhanced traction and dynamic capabilities that were uncommon in mainstream family sedans of its era. It aimed to provide drivers with a blend of everyday usability, spirited performance, and improved safety in diverse driving conditions, especially in regions prone to challenging weather.
The Opel Vectra A: A European Mainstay
The first-generation Opel Vectra, known internally as the Vectra A, was a pivotal model for Opel, embodying the company’s commitment to modern design and engineering in the late 1980s. Its sleek, aerodynamic bodywork, with a drag coefficient as low as 0.29 in certain iterations, was a stark contrast to the more angular designs of its predecessor and many contemporaries. This focus on aerodynamics not only contributed to its contemporary appearance but also improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise, enhancing the driving experience.
Primarily aimed at the European market, the Vectra A was available in a variety of body styles, including a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback (marketed as the Cavalier in the UK). Its robust platform provided a solid foundation for both comfort and handling, making it a popular choice for families and business users alike. The inclusion of advanced features for its time, such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and power steering, further solidified its reputation as a well-equipped and safe vehicle. The 4×4 variant, in particular, showcased Opel’s engineering ambition, integrating a sophisticated drivetrain into a practical family sedan.
Powertrain and Performance of the Opel Vectra A 2.0i 16V (150 Hp) 4×4
Engineering for Agility and Traction
The heart of the Opel Vectra A 2.0i 16V (150 Hp) 4×4 was its impressive 2.0-liter (1998 cm³ or 121.93 cu. in.) inline-four engine, designated with the code 20XEJ. This engine was a testament to Opel’s commitment to performance and efficiency, featuring a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, a setup that was still relatively advanced for a mainstream engine in 1989. Employing a multi-port manifold fuel injection system and naturally aspirated induction, it delivered a robust 150 horsepower at 6000 rpm, translating to a respectable 75.1 horsepower per liter. Peak torque stood at 144.56 lb.-ft. (196 Nm) at 4600 rpm, ensuring strong mid-range acceleration.
This potent engine was mated to a precise 5-speed manual transmission, offering drivers direct control over the power delivery. What truly set this variant apart, however, was its all-wheel-drive (4×4) powertrain architecture. This system provided superior grip and stability, distributing power to all four wheels, which was particularly beneficial for handling adverse weather conditions or for drivers seeking a more dynamic driving experience. The combination of the 150 HP engine and the AWD system allowed the Vectra A 2.0i 16V (150 Hp) 4×4 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 9 seconds, with a top speed of 129.25 mph (208 km/h). These figures placed it firmly in the performance sedan category for its time, offering a compelling blend of practicality and excitement.
Despite its performance orientation, Opel also paid attention to fuel economy. The combined fuel consumption for the 2.0i 16V 4×4 was rated at 28.3 US mpg (8.3 l/100 km), with urban consumption at 20.5 US mpg (11.5 l/100 km) and extra-urban at an impressive 34.6 US mpg (6.8 l/100 km). These figures, while not groundbreaking by modern standards, were competitive for a powerful AWD sedan of its era, demonstrating a balance between performance and everyday running costs.
Design, Features, and Innovation
The Opel Vectra A’s design language was a clear departure from the more traditional lines of its predecessors. Its smooth, rounded contours and flush-fitting windows contributed to its modern aesthetic and excellent aerodynamic properties. The 4-door sedan body style provided a classic and timeless appeal, balancing elegance with functionality. Measuring 174.49 inches (4432 mm) in length, 67.17 inches (1706 mm) in width, and 55.12 inches (1400 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 102.36 inches (2600 mm), the Vectra A offered a substantial road presence and a stable platform.
Interior and Practicality
Inside, the Vectra A was designed with practicality and comfort in mind. It comfortably seated five occupants, offering ample head and legroom for a car in its class. The trunk space was generous, ranging from a minimum of 13.42 cubic feet (380 liters) to a maximum of 24.37 cubic feet (690 liters) with the rear seats folded, making it highly versatile for family use or long journeys. The 16.64 US gallon (63 liter) fuel tank provided a good cruising range.
In terms of features, the Vectra A 2.0i 16V 4×4 was equipped with a range of technologies considered advanced for its time. Safety was enhanced by the inclusion of an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which helped prevent wheel lock-up under heavy braking, a significant safety advancement for a family car in the late 1980s. Hydraulic power steering made maneuvering effortless, while the suspension system, featuring coil springs at both the front and rear, was tuned to provide a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling dynamics. The braking system comprised ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, ensuring effective stopping power. The car rode on 205/55 R15 tires, fitted to 15-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Technical Specifications: Opel Vectra A 2.0i 16V (150 Hp) 4×4
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| General Information | |
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra A |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (150 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of Production | 1989 year |
| End of Production | 1990 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 20.5 US mpg (11.5 l/100 km) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 34.6 US mpg (6.8 l/100 km) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 28.3 US mpg (8.3 l/100 km) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 129.25 mph (208 km/h) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.5 Hp/tonne |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per liter | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 144.56 lb.-ft. (196 Nm) @ 4600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 20XEJ |
| Engine displacement | 121.93 cu. in. (1998 cm³) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.39 in. (86 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.39 in. (86 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.76 US qt (4.5 l) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.61 US qt (7.2 l) |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 2888.06 lbs. (1310 kg) |
| Max. weight | 3979.34 lbs. (1805 kg) |
| Max load | 1091.29 lbs. (495 kg) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 13.42 cu. ft. (380 l) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 24.37 cu. ft. (690 l) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 16.64 US gal (63 l) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 174.49 in. (4432 mm) |
| Width | 67.17 in. (1706 mm) |
| Height | 55.12 in. (1400 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 102
|