New Opel OPC Model Generation

High Performance Versions of Astra, Zafira and Vectra
November 1, 2005 7:59 PM
Filed Under: German, Opel

Press Release

High Performance Versions of Astra, Zafira and Vectra

 

  • Astra OPC and Zafira OPC: 177 kW/240 hp 2.0-liter turbo engine
  • Vectra OPC and Vectra OPC Station Wagon: 188 kW/255 hp 2.8-liter V6 turbo unit
  • Combined market launch in Germany on November 25

Four new OPC models (Opel Performance Center) show just how much sporty potential and technological expertise is built into Opel cars. At the same time, the Astra, Zafira and Vectra high performance versions highlight the company's strategy to spark emotions with its products and set standards in driving dynamics.

 

OPC engineers have further developed the inherently sporty Astra GTC into a high performance hatchback. A 177 kW/240 hp 2.0-liter gasoline turbo engine ensures exciting driving, accelerating the coupé-like model to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and taking it to a maximum speed of 244 km/h. The chassis comes with IDSPlus (Interactive Driving System), a technology that electronically networks and coordinates all driving dynamics functions. In addition, the driver can choose an even sportier set-up by simply pressing the "SportSwitch" button.

 

With exactly the same engine as the Astra OPC, the new Zafira OPC accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 231 km/h. A trendsetter in interior flexibility thanks to its patented Flex7 seating system, the world's fastest series-production van attracts demanding sports car fans who are looking for a particularly versatile car. It features the state-of-the-art high-tech chassis control system IDSPlus2, with further improved roll-prevention that combines precise handling and active safety with high ride comfort.

 

With the five-door Vectra OPC hatchback and the Vectra OPC station wagon, Opel presented two world premieres in the high performance mid-size class at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA). Thanks to an output of 188 kW/255 hp from a newly developed 2.8-liter V6 engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve timing, the OPC portfolio's top models feature driving dynamics at sports car level. The sedan and station wagon accelerate to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds and 6.9 seconds respectively, and reach a top speed of 260 km/h (station wagon: 254 km/h). Like the Zafira OPC, both feature the enhanced IDSPlus2 driving dynamics control system.

 

The new OPC models are also eye-catchers, featuring distinctive front spoilers with a central air intake, large 18-inch wheels in characteristic OPC six-spoke design, strongly contoured door sills, blue brake calipers and exhaust systems with trapezoidal tail pipes. The interiors boast top quality Recaro sports seats and special sports instruments, as well as a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearshift lever. The high performance versions offer a blend of exciting design, top-class technology and outstanding driving performance at an excellent price-performance ratio, sums up Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Marketing. "The OPC models are cars that are perfectly suitable for everyday use, with a sporty character. At the same time, they embody the other key attributes of our brand, such as versatility." Customers can see for themselves on November 25, when the OPC range goes on sale at Opel dealerships in Germany.

 

Astra OPC

2.0 Turbo ECOTEC

177 kW/240 hp

28,000 euros

Zafira OPC

2.0 Turbo ECOTEC

177 kW/240 hp

32,500 euros

Vectra OPC, five-

door hatchback sedan

2.8 V6 Turbo ECOTEC

188 kW/255 hp

37,800 euros

Vectra OPC, Station Wagon

2.8 V6 Turbo ECOTEC

188 kW/255 hp

38,600 euros

(Recommended retail price in Germany ex works, incl. VAT)

 

Overview: Technical Highlights of OPC Models

 

Forged aluminum-silicon pistons

Lightweight pistons capable of withstanding high thermal loads.

 

 

Sodium-cooled exhaust valves,

The valves contain sodium to disperse heat more efficiently (sodium is a waxy alkaline metal with good thermal conductivity).

 

Drive-by-wire

Sensory detection of gas pedal movement, realized via an actuating motor. Advantage: optimized drivability, smoother transitions.

 

Direct ignition with separate coils

One coil per spark plug to build up a high spark voltage without losses.

 

Hot-film air mass measurement

Precise air mass measurement irrespective of temperature and air pressure fluctuations, for optimal fuel-air mixture preparation.

 

Hydroforming

 

A hydro-mechanical pressing process by which hollow components are shaped using water pressure. Advantages: lower weight, high strength, lower costs.

 

Interactive Driving System IDSPlus2

 

Electronic chassis control, in which the dynamic drive systems (electronic stability program ESPPlus, traction control TCPlus, understeer control logic UCL, ABS anti-lock brake system, Brake Assist and Continuous Damping Control (CDC)) are networked as an interactive system. The second-generation system uses highly sophisticated control software to provide optimally precise suspension and rolling refinement.

 

"Low-end torque" engine characteristic

An early, steep rise of the torque curve promotes spontaneous engine response and high flexibility.

 

Metal-monolith catalytic converter

Metal-base catalytic converters have shorter "light-off times" than ceramic catalytic converters. They also cause less exhaust back-pressure and have greater thermal stability and mechanical strength.

 

SportSwitch

A switch that activates much more sporty suspension settings, with firmer shock absorbers and more direct steering and gas pedal response.

 

Oil-spray cooling

Cooling of the piston crowns in engines subject to high thermal loads by spraying them with engine oil through special nozzles.

 

Twin-scroll turbocharger

(2.8 V6 Turbo)

The exhaust-driven turbine is supplied with two separate exhaust flows, one from each cylinder bank. Advantages: the more uniform input-pulses optimize response, power delivery and the efficiency of the turbocharger.

 

Turbo system, integral 

(2.0 Turbo)

The exhaust manifold, turbine housing and waste gate are located in a single component. Advantages: less weight, less installation space, better response.

 

Variable valve timing

(2.8 V6 Turbo)

Depending on the engine-load and driving conditions, the inlet valve opening/closing angles are varied, resulting in an unrestricted power flow at high engine speeds and plenty of pulling power at low speeds.

Source: Text & Photos courtesy of General Motors Corporation
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