Era:
Early 1990s European-influenced design
Competitors:
Ford Sierra, Opel Vectra, Volkswagen Passat, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord
Design Influence:
Styling by Italdesign Giugiaro, known for its sleek and aerodynamic profile.
Platform:
Based on the Vauxhall Cavalier Mk3 platform.
Powertrain:
Comprehensive coverage of engine mechanicals, ignition, fuel delivery, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust systems.
Drivetrain:
Detailed information on manual and automatic transmissions, clutch operation, driveshafts, and differentials.
Chassis:
Extensive coverage of suspension components (front and rear), steering system, and brake systems (including ABS if equipped).
Electrical:
In-depth wiring diagrams, component location, diagnostic procedures for lighting, starting, charging, instrumentation, and ECU.
Body & Interior:
Procedures for body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat adjustments, and interior trim removal/installation.
Preventativemaintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnosis, and fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems.
Torquespecifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Specialtools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Code:
C20NE (most common)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 86 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 114 hp @ 5200 rpm (C20NE)
Torque:
Approx. 126 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm (C20NE)
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating typically 91-95 RON)
Variant:
C20XE (16-valve, 150 hp) available in some markets/trims.
Length:
Approx. 4650 mm (183.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1760 mm (69.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs), depending on specification.
Crash Test Results:
Limited public crash test data available for this specific model and year. European safety standards of the era applied.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Airbags:
Driver airbag typically standard on higher trims or optional. Passenger airbag not commonly featured in this generation.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioner seatbelts may be present on front occupants.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or 6-12 months.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt:
Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years, critical for interference engines.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on climate).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. GM specification fluids typically compatible.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common for the era; issues with wiring harness integrity, faulty sensors, and intermittent dashboard lights.
Rust Corrosion:
Prone to rust, especially in wheel arches, sills, and around windows, depending on climate and maintenance.
Engine Mounts:
Wear and tear on engine and transmission mounts can lead to vibration and harshness.
Exhaust System Corrosion:
Catalytic converter and exhaust pipes can corrode over time.
