Opel Zafira A (T3000) 1.6 CNG (97 Hp) ecoFLEX

The Opel Zafira A (T3000) 1.6 CNG ecoFLEX, produced from 2001 to 2002, represents a significant early foray into alternative fuel vehicles within the European market. This compact minivan, designed to compete with offerings like the Renault Scenic and Citroën Xsara Picasso, distinguished itself with the availability of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powertrain alongside traditional gasoline options. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira was a popular choice for families in Europe seeking a versatile and relatively economical vehicle. The ecoFLEX designation indicated Opel’s commitment to fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, a growing concern at the time. This model offered seating for seven passengers, a key selling point in the crowded European family car segment.

Opel Zafira A (T3000) 1.6 CNG ecoFLEX: An Overview

The Zafira A, launched in 1999, was Opel’s first foray into the compact minivan segment. The “T3000” designation refers to the platform code used for this generation. The 1.6 CNG ecoFLEX variant was a specialized version, designed to run on either gasoline or CNG, offering drivers the flexibility to choose based on fuel availability and cost. CNG was, and remains, a popular alternative fuel in many European countries due to its lower cost and reduced environmental impact compared to gasoline and diesel. The Zafira A’s modular interior, with its adaptable seating arrangements, further enhanced its practicality and appeal to families.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Zafira A 1.6 CNG ecoFLEX is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine, designated Z16YNG. This engine produces 97 horsepower (Hp) at 6200 rpm and 140 Newton-meters (103.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine is naturally aspirated and utilizes multi-port fuel injection. The key feature, of course, is its bi-fuel capability, allowing it to run on either gasoline or compressed natural gas. When running on CNG, the engine’s output is slightly reduced, but the significantly lower fuel costs often offset this. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 15.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 14.7 seconds. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 15.3 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 10.6 kg/Nm. The engine displacement is 1598 cm³ (97.52 cu. in.), with a bore of 79 mm (3.11 in.) and a stroke of 81.5 mm (3.21 in.). It features a compression ratio of 12.5:1 and 2 valves per cylinder.

Design & Features

The Opel Zafira A is a five-door minivan with a practical and functional design. Its key feature is its seven-seat configuration, achieved through a flexible seating system. The rear seats can be folded flat or even removed entirely to maximize cargo space. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 150 liters (5.3 cu. ft.) with all seats in place, expanding to a substantial 1700 liters (60.03 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. The exterior design is typical of early 2000s European minivans – rounded edges and a relatively high roofline. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels, with disc brakes on the rear. The Zafira A’s focus was on practicality and versatility, making it a popular choice for families needing a spacious and adaptable vehicle. The drag coefficient is rated at 0.33.

Technical Specifications