The Opel Zafira A (T3000) 1.6 16V, produced between 1999 and 2000, represents a significant entry into the compact minivan segment for the German automaker. This model, powered by a 1.6-liter gasoline engine producing 101 horsepower, was a key component of Opel’s strategy to offer versatile and family-oriented vehicles in the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira A established Opel as a competitor in the increasingly popular multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) class, offering a flexible seating arrangement and practical design. The Zafira A was particularly noted for its innovative seating system, allowing for configurations of up to seven passengers.
Opel Zafira A (T3000) 1.6 16V: An Overview
The Zafira A, designated internally as the T3000, was the first model in the Zafira line, and it quickly gained popularity for its blend of practicality, affordability, and relatively compact dimensions. It was based on the Opel/Vauxhall Astra G platform, sharing many components with that model. The 1.6 16V variant was positioned as an entry-level option, offering a balance between fuel economy and performance for everyday use. The Zafira’s design focused on maximizing interior space and providing a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for families.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Zafira A 1.6 16V is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, identified by the engine codes Z16XE or X16XEL. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 101 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for typical driving conditions. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 13 seconds, and it achieves a maximum speed of 176 km/h (109.36 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 12.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.7 kg/Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg) in urban driving and 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) on the open road.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira A is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its body style prioritizes interior space and versatility. A key feature of the Zafira A is its flexible seating system, allowing the rear seats to be folded flat or even removed entirely, creating a large cargo area. With all seats in place, trunk space is 142 liters (5.01 cu. ft.), expanding to a substantial 1705 liters (60.21 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4317 mm (169.96 in) in length, 1740 mm (68.5 in) in width, and 1630 mm (64.17 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 2694 mm (106.06 in). Safety features for the time included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The suspension utilizes coil springs on both the front and rear axles, providing a comfortable ride. The Zafira A rides on 195/65 R15 tires mounted on 6J x 15 inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira A (T3000) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (101 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 1999 |
| End of production | June, 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 3600 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z16XE, X16XEL |
| 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 | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.25 l (3.43 US qt | 2.86 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1980 kg (4365.15 lbs.) |
| Max load | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 142 l (5.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1705 l (60.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4317 mm (169.96 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2694 mm (106.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
The Opel Zafira A 1.6 16V, while a relatively modest performer, offered a compelling package for families seeking a versatile and affordable minivan. Its innovative seating arrangement and practical design helped establish the Zafira as a popular choice in the European market, paving the way for subsequent generations of this successful model.
