The Opel Vectra C (facelift 2005) 3.0 CDTI Automatic, produced from 2006 to 2008, represents a significant iteration of Opel’s mid-size offering. Positioned as a direct competitor to vehicles like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat in the European market, the Vectra C aimed to provide a blend of comfort, practicality, and performance. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and features provides insight into the engineering trends of European automakers during this period. The facelifted model, introduced in 2005, brought revised styling and updated engine options, including the 3.0 CDTI diesel engine detailed here.
Opel Vectra C: An Overview
The Vectra nameplate has a long history with Opel, dating back to 1988. The ‘C’ generation, launched in 2002, marked a departure from previous models with its more modern design and increased focus on interior space and refinement. The 2005 facelift further enhanced these qualities, addressing some criticisms of the original C-generation. The 3.0 CDTI variant, equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, was a flagship model, offering a compelling combination of power and fuel efficiency for buyers prioritizing long-distance comfort and capability.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C 3.0 CDTI lies a 2.958-liter V6 diesel engine, designated the Z30DT. This engine produces 184 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 400 Newton-meters (295 lb-ft) of torque. The use of direct injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler allows for a strong power output while maintaining relatively good fuel economy. The engine’s configuration contributes to a smooth and refined driving experience, a key characteristic sought after in the European touring car segment. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 9.7 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in a calculated 9.2 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 224 km/h (139.19 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 8.5 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 3.9 kg/Nm demonstrate a respectable balance between engine output and vehicle mass.
Design & Features
The Opel Vectra C facelift is a four-door sedan with a traditional three-box design. The 2005 refresh included revised front and rear styling, with a more prominent grille and updated headlight and taillight designs. Inside, the Vectra C offered a comfortable and well-equipped cabin for five passengers. Key features included a spacious trunk with a capacity of 500 liters (17.66 cubic feet), and a focus on driver ergonomics. Safety features, increasingly important in the mid-2000s, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The vehicle’s independent coil spring suspension on both the front and rear axles aimed to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. The standard tire size was 215/55 R16, mounted on 16-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C (facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 CDTI (184 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2006 |
| End of production | June, 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 224 km/h (139.19 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 184 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm (295.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z30DT |
| Engine displacement | 2958 cm3 (180.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1565 kg (3450.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 545 kg (1201.52 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4611 mm (181.54 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front track | 1536 mm (60.47 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Opel Vectra C 3.0 CDTI Automatic, while not a vehicle commonly found in the US market, represents a well-engineered and capable mid-size sedan that was popular in Europe. Its combination of a powerful diesel engine, comfortable interior, and practical features made it a competitive offering in its segment.
