Opel Zafira A (T3000) 1.8 16V (125 Hp) Automatic

The Opel Zafira A (T3000) 1.8 16V Automatic, produced between 2000 and 2002, represents Opel’s initial foray into the compact minivan segment. Designed to compete with offerings like the Renault Scenic and Citroën Xsara Picasso, the Zafira A distinguished itself with its innovative space management system, particularly its optional third-row seating that could be folded flat into the floor. While not officially sold in the United States, the Zafira was a significant model for Opel in Europe, offering a practical and versatile solution for families. This version, equipped with a 1.8-liter 16-valve engine and an automatic transmission, aimed to balance performance with ease of driving.

Opel Zafira A (T3000): A European Compact MPV

The Zafira A (T3000) was the first generation of the Zafira, a nameplate that would become synonymous with compact multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) in Europe. Opel positioned the Zafira as a flexible and family-oriented vehicle, emphasizing its spacious interior and adaptable seating configurations. The T3000 designation refers to the internal platform code used by Opel for this generation. Its key selling point was the “Flex7” seating system, allowing for seven passengers or a substantial cargo area with relative ease. The Zafira A was a popular choice for European buyers seeking a practical alternative to larger, more expensive vans or traditional station wagons.

Engine & Performance

The 1.8 16V engine powering the Zafira A is a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. Displacing 1796 cc (109.6 cubic inches), it produces 125 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb-ft) of torque at 3800 rpm. This engine, identified by the code Z18XE, utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, the Zafira A achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 13 seconds and a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). While not particularly sporty, the powertrain provides adequate performance for everyday driving and family transportation. Fuel economy, as measured by the NEDC standard, is rated at 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) combined, with urban consumption at 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg) and extra-urban at 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 208 g/km, meeting Euro 3 emission standards.

Design & Features

The Opel Zafira A is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate up to seven passengers. Its body style prioritizes practicality and interior space. The exterior design is typical of early 2000s European automotive aesthetics – functional rather than overtly stylish. The defining feature of the Zafira A is its interior flexibility. The “Flex7” system allows the second and third-row seats to be folded flat into the floor, creating a large, uninterrupted cargo area when not needed. Standard features for this model year typically included power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and front airbags. The automatic transmission adds to the vehicle’s ease of use, particularly in urban environments. The Zafira A’s suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and a coil spring torsion beam arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The vehicle’s drag coefficient of 0.33 contributes to reasonable aerodynamic efficiency.

Technical Specifications