Opel Vectra C: A Look at Performance and Features

The Opel Vectra C, produced from 2002 to 2010, was a big step up for the Vectra series. Built on the GM Epsilon platform, the Vectra C was first introduced in March 2002 as a 2003 model. It came in several body styles, including a four-door saloon, a five-door hatchback (known as the GTS), and a five-door estate that arrived a little later in 2003. The car was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 2002.

When it was first announced, the Vectra C had a bit of a delayed debut. It was originally meant to be introduced alongside the Saab 9-3 in 2001, but there were delays, so it officially premiered in 2002.

Engines and Performance: One of the standout features of the Vectra C was its variety of engines. It offered both petrol and diesel engines to suit different markets and driving needs. Here’s a look at some of the options:

• Petrol Engines:
  • 1.6 L Family 1 I4
  • 1.8 L Family 1 I4
  • 2.0 L Ecotec turbo I4
  • 2.2 L Ecotec I4
  • 2.8 L High Feature turbo V6
  • 3.2 L Ellesmere V6
• Diesel Engines:
  • 1.9 L I4 CDTI
  • 2.0 L I4 DTI
  • 2.2 L I4 DTI
  • 3.0 L V6 CDTI

The 2.8L turbo V6 was the real gem for those who wanted power. It produced around 228 hp, and in the Vectra OPC (known as the VXR in the UK), it could produce up to 252 hp, making it a strong performer on the road with a top speed of about 250 km/h (155 mph). The 3.0L V6 diesel, on the other hand, was a solid choice for those who wanted better fuel economy without sacrificing performance.

Transmission: There were plenty of transmission options to go with these engines. You could choose from:

• 6-speed automatic
• 6-speed manual
• 5-speed manual
• 5-speed Easytronic automated manual
• CVTronic

Facelift (2005): In 2005, the Vectra C got a facelift, which brought some noticeable changes. The engines got a slight boost in power, and the V6 engines were updated. The 3.0L diesel, for example, now produced 184 hp, and the 3.2L petrol V6 was replaced by the new 2.8L turbo V6 engine, which was co-developed with Saab. The new V6 engine made the Vectra feel even more sporty.

The facelift also introduced the Vectra OPC, which was the performance version of the car. It had 252 hp and was a lot of fun to drive, especially in the hatchback and estate versions.

Market Presence: The Vectra C was sold in different markets worldwide, like the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and South America. In the UK, it wasn’t as popular as its predecessors, but it still held its own in the sales charts. In fact, in 2007, it became one of the top 10 best-selling cars in the UK, which was a huge improvement.

In Australia and New Zealand, the Vectra C was sold as the Holden Vectra, and in South America, it was known as the Chevrolet Vectra. Although it didn’t see as much success in some regions, the car still had a loyal following.