1988 Opel Vectra Hatchback 1.8i 5MT FWD (90 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Opel introduced the Vectra lineup in 1988 as a sedan and a station wagon, followed by the liftback version in the spring of 1989.

The times when Opel sold cars like hotcakes were gone, and the German automaker had to make a bold move to increase its market share. With funding from its owner, GM, the carmaker created a vehicle that was designed to be reliable, comfortable, and, most importantly, safe. That was the Vectra lineup. In addition, a sloped-down liftgate version not only that it followed in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Ascona, but also was the kind of vehicle that many Europeans wanted. A bodywork at the halfway between a sedan and a station wagon.

At the front, the Vectra featured a front fascia with rectangular headlights and corner-mounted turn signals. A three-slat plastic grille, black or body-colored depending on the trim level, filled the space above the wrapped-around plastic bumper. The car’s greenhouse was longer than its sedan sibling, with a sloped-down tailgate. In addition, the automaker placed different side windows behind the rear doors to help the driver’s visibility. Finally, at the back, the Vectra hatchback featured a rear fascia with corner-mounted taillights.

Inside, the base trim level featured cranked windows, manual adjustable mirrors, and a ventilation system. The full-spec version offered a leather-clad interior with power everything and a climate control system. Its front seats provided adequate room for average-sized occupants, while the rear split-folding bench was less comfortable due to limited legroom. But it was good enough for children and could also increase the trunk size.

Under the hood, Opel installed a 1.6-liter, single-point injection system that provided a mere 75 hp. The carmaker also offered two turbo-diesel versions with 1.7-liter displacement, Isuzu-sourced powerplants, which were highly fuel-efficient.