Positioning:
Sporty and aerodynamic coupe, aimed at a younger demographic and those seeking stylish, performance-oriented personal transport. Positioned as a halo model for Opel/Vauxhall.
Competitors:
Ford Probe, Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Mitsubishi Eclipse, BMW 3 Series Coupe (E36), Audi Coupe.
Aerodynamics:
Extremely low drag coefficient (Cd of 0.26), which was class-leading at the time of its introduction. Contributing to fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.
Design:
Sleek, wedge-shaped profile with pop-up headlights, frameless door windows, and a flowing roofline.
Years Covered:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Markets Covered:
European (Opel), British (Vauxhall), Australian/New Zealand (Holden)
Estimated Pages:
Extensive, likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (primary focus, with potential for multi-language sections in some original manuals)
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), fuel system (injection, components), exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, engine management systems (ECU, sensors, actuators).
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch system, differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, all-wheel-drive (AWD) system (where applicable).
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system (power steering), wheels, tires, wheel alignment specifications.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, brake fluid specifications, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), ignition switch, fuse box and relay locations, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, sunroof (manual/electric), upholstery, dashboard, trim, climate control system, heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC).
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-ups, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component testing and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault diagnosis for engine, transmission, ABS, etc.
Technical Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic data, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds), detailed illustrations, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions.
Engine Code 1:
C20NE (2.0L 8v SOHC)
Engine Code 2:
C20XE (2.0L 16v DOHC 'Red Top')
Engine Code 3:
X20XEV (2.0L 16v DOHC Ecotec)
Engine Code 4:
C30SEJ (3.0L 24v DOHC V6)
Engine Code 5:
Z20LET (2.0L 16v DOHC Turbocharged - Later models, though manual might predate its widespread use)
Hp Range:
Approximately 115 hp (85 kW) for 2.0 8v to 204 hp (150 kW) for 2.0 Turbocharged (though specific engine variants in the manual need to be confirmed).
Torque Range:
Approximately 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) for 2.0 8v to 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) for 2.0 Turbocharged.
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (MPI or GDI depending on engine).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Petrol)
ECU Systems:
Various GM ECUs including Multec, Motronic variants.
Length:
Approx. 4,509 mm (177.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,708 mm (67.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,320 mm (52.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1,280 kg - 1,450 kg (2,822 lbs - 3,197 lbs) depending on engine and options.
Crash Test Notes:
Euro NCAP testing was not prevalent during its early production years. Later tests on similar platforms might offer comparisons, but specific Calibra ratings from independent bodies during its active sales period are scarce.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a common option, particularly on higher-spec models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag was standard or optional depending on market and year. Passenger airbag often an option.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, with pre-tensioners on front belts on later models.
Head Unit:
Factory fitted radio/cassette players. CD players became available later or as aftermarket upgrades. Often featured basic graphic equalizers.
Speaker System:
Basic speaker setups, with upgrade options to more powerful systems or aftermarket installations.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models, especially higher-spec variants.
On Board Computer:
Some later models offered a basic trip computer displaying fuel consumption, range, and average speed.
Original Connectivity:
Limited to basic radio and antenna connections. No integrated mobile phone or Bluetooth connectivity from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific engine variants.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For C20NE and C20XE engines, typically every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 4 years. X20XEV might have a longer interval or a timing chain. **Crucial to verify in manual.**
Engine Oil Grade 1:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A2-96 or A3-98; viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic. Consult manual for specific engine.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze. GM specification 'GM 1825 M' or equivalent. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 rated gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Manual specifies specific type.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
GM DEXRON-III automatic transmission fluid.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common for older vehicles, including intermittent issues with sensors, ECU, and dashboard lights due to aging wiring and connectors.
Rust And Corrosion:
Can be susceptible to rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and tailgate. Underbody protection is key.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can lead to steering looseness and uneven tire wear.
Engine Management Codes:
On some early models, issues with Crankshaft Position Sensors (CKP) or Lambda sensors can affect engine performance and fuel economy.
Sunroof Leaks:
The large sunroof, while stylish, can be a point of water ingress if seals degrade or drain channels become blocked.
Opel Heritage:
Opel has a long history of producing stylish and technologically advanced cars. The Calibra followed in the footsteps of the Opel Manta and Monza, aiming to capture a sporty image.
Generations:
Single generation, launched in 1989 as a successor to the Opel Monza. It remained in production with minor facelifts until 1997 (Opel) and 1998 (Holden).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured at the Opel plant in Rüsselsheim, Germany. Assembly was also carried out in South Korea (Saehan/GM Korea), Finland (Valmet Automotive), and Portugal.
Total Production Numbers:
Approximately 238,000 units produced worldwide.
