The Vauxhall Vectra C 2.2i 16V Direct ECOTEC (155 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2005, represents a significant iteration in Vauxhall’s mid-size family car lineage. As part of the Vectra C generation (2002-2008), this model aimed to provide a balance of comfort, practicality, and performance for the UK and European markets. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications and position within the European automotive landscape provides insight into the evolving standards of the time. The Vectra C competed with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 406, and Volkswagen Passat, offering a spacious sedan body style with a focus on modern features and a refined driving experience.
Vauxhall Vectra C: An Overview
The Vectra C marked a departure from its predecessors, adopting a more contemporary design and incorporating advanced technologies. It was positioned as a mainstream family car, appealing to buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable vehicle for both daily commuting and longer journeys. The 2.2i 16V Direct ECOTEC variant, equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission, was a popular choice, offering a blend of performance and convenience. The “Direct” designation refers to the direct ignition system, a technology aimed at improving engine efficiency and responsiveness. This model was a key part of Vauxhall’s strategy to offer a competitive range of vehicles in the crowded D-segment.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Vectra C 2.2i lies a 2.2-liter (2198 cm3) inline four-cylinder ECOTEC engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 155 horsepower (Hp) at 5600 rpm and 220 Newton-meters (162.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its efficient operation. The power-to-weight ratio of 8.4 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 5.9 kg/Nm provide respectable acceleration and responsiveness. The engine’s output translates to a maximum speed of 212 km/h (131.73 mph). Fuel economy figures are rated at 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg) in urban conditions, 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and 8.0 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) combined. CO2 emissions are rated at 192 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards for the period.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Vectra C 2.2i is a four-door sedan with a spacious interior designed to accommodate five passengers. Its exterior styling was considered modern for its time, featuring a streamlined silhouette and a relatively understated aesthetic. Key features included ventilated front disc brakes and disc brakes on the rear, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The independent suspension – McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear – aimed to provide a comfortable ride and stable handling. The vehicle’s trunk offers a practical 500 liters (17.66 cu. ft.) of space, expandable to 1050 liters (37.08 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The drag coefficient of 0.28 contributed to improved aerodynamic efficiency. The interior focused on providing a comfortable and functional environment, typical of family sedans of the early 2000s.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Vectra |
| Generation | Vectra C |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2i 16V Direct ECOTEC (155 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 192 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 3800 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z22YH |
| Engine displacement | 2198 cm3 (134.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (min) | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (max) | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4611 mm (181.54 in.) |
| Width | 1798 mm (70.79 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2036 mm (80.16 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
The Vauxhall Vectra C 2.2i 16V Direct ECOTEC Automatic, while not a performance icon, represented a solid and dependable choice for families in the early 2000s. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and reasonable efficiency made it a competitive offering in the European mid-size car segment. Although largely unknown in the US market, its technical specifications and features reflect the automotive advancements of the era and the evolving demands of car buyers.
