The Opel Zafira A (T3000) 2.0 DTI 16V, produced from 2000 to 2002, represents a significant entry into the compact minivan segment for the German automaker. While not initially sold in the United States, the Zafira was a popular and innovative vehicle in Europe, known for its flexible seating configuration and relatively affordable price point. It was Opel’s answer to the growing demand for multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) capable of accommodating families and their varying needs. The “T3000” designation refers to the internal platform code used by Opel for this generation of the Zafira.
Opel Zafira A (T3000): A European Compact MPV
The Zafira A was a pivotal model for Opel, establishing the brand as a competitor in the burgeoning MPV market. It distinguished itself with its clever interior packaging, offering seating for up to seven passengers in a relatively compact footprint. This flexibility, combined with a diesel engine focused on fuel efficiency, made it a practical choice for European families. The 2.0 DTI 16V variant, equipped with a direct injection turbocharged diesel engine, provided a balance between performance and economy.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Zafira A 2.0 DTI 16V is a 1,995 cc (121.74 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the Y20DTH. This engine utilizes direct injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 101 horsepower (Hp) at 4,300 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1,800 rpm. The engine’s 18.5:1 compression ratio is typical for a direct injection diesel, contributing to its efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 14 seconds and a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the Zafira 2.0 DTI 16V offered adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The weight-to-power ratio of 14.8 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.5 kg/Nm reflect the engine’s focus on usability rather than outright speed.
Design & Features
The Opel Zafira A is a five-door minivan designed to maximize interior space and versatility. Its body style is characterized by a relatively high roofline and a practical, functional aesthetic. The key feature of the Zafira A was its innovative seating system, marketed as “Flex7”. This system allowed the second and third-row seats to be folded flat into the floor, creating a large, uninterrupted cargo area. With all seats folded, the Zafira offered up to 1,700 liters (60.03 cu. ft.) of cargo space. Standard safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The interior was designed with family use in mind, featuring durable materials and numerous storage compartments. The Zafira’s dimensions – 4,317 mm (169.96 in.) in length, 1,742 mm (68.58 in.) in width, and 1,634 mm (64.33 in.) in height – positioned it as a relatively compact MPV, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Zafira |
| Generation | Zafira A (T3000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 DTI 16V (101 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2000 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 101 Hp @ 4300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1800 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Y20DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 150 l (5.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4317 mm (169.96 in.) |
| Width | 1742 mm (68.58 in.) |
| Height | 1634 mm (64.33 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 |
| 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 (T3000) 2.0 DTI 16V, while never officially sold in the US market, remains a significant vehicle in the history of European MPVs. Its innovative seating system, fuel-efficient diesel engine, and practical design made it a popular choice for families seeking a versatile and affordable vehicle.
