OPEL Vectra Sedan 1988-1992 Photos, engines & full specs

Opel changed its game when it replaced the Ascona with the Vectra, going into a completely new direction in 1988.

Before the Vectra and the Astra, Opel played the sportiness card with the Manta GTE or the Kadett GSI. But with the new range, it tried to say that it changed its direction towards the regular family-oriented vehicles and the car-rental companies. The Vectra's first-generation played on the safe side: new platform, front-wheel-drive, and engines for every taste.

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 sedan featured a greenhouse with curved panels and a small window behind the rear doors. It was Opel's way to say that the car was suitable as a middle-management vehicle. At the back, the trunk lid featured a downward panel flanked by the taillights.

Inside, the base trim level featured cranked windows, manual adjustable mirrors, and a ventilation system. On the full-spec version, it 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 bench was less comfortable due to limited legroom.

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