The 1.6-liter Opel C16NZ engine was produced from 1987 to 1993 at the plant in Bochum and was installed on a number of popular models of the concern, such as Astra, Corsa, Vectra and Kadett. This power unit quickly gave way to a more modern X16SZ engine.
C10 family: C14NZ, C16NZ, C18NZ.
Specifications
| Production years | 1987-1993 |
| Displacement, cc | 1598 |
| Fuel system | single injection |
| Power output, hp | 75 |
| Torque output, Nm | 125 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 79 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 81.5 |
| Compression ratio | 9.2 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Opel Vectra 1990) — city — highway — combined |
9.6 5.5 7.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~320 000 |
| Weight, kg | 120 |
The engine was installed on:
- Opel Astra F (T92) in 1991 – 1994;
- Opel Ascona C (J82) in 1987 – 1988;
- Opel Corsa A (S83) in 1989 – 1991;
- Opel Kadett E (T85) in 1987 – 1993;
- Opel Vectra A (J89) in 1988 – 1993.
Disadvantages of the C16NZ engine
- Most often, owners complain about ignition system failures, a spark disappears in it.
- The reason usually lies in the cover of the distributor, high-voltage wires or candles.
- The timing belt resource is about 60,000 km, it’s good that when it breaks, the valves do not bend.
- Often problems arise due to the failure of sensors, such as a lambda probe.
- The idle speed controller, thermostat and fuel pump have a limited resource.
Frequently asked questions about the Opel C16NZ
How much power does the Opel C16NZ make?
The Opel C16NZ develops 75 hp and 125 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Opel C16NZ take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Opel C16NZ have a timing belt or chain?
The Opel C16NZ uses a timing belt.
Is the Opel C16NZ turbocharged?
No, the Opel C16NZ is naturally aspirated.
Does the Opel C16NZ need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Opel C16NZ has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Opel C16NZ last?
The typical lifespan of the Opel C16NZ is ~320 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Opel C16NZ?
Opel Vectra 1990: city 9.6, highway 5.5, combined 7.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Opel C16NZ installed on?
Opel Astra F (T92) in 1991 - 1994; Opel Ascona C (J82) in 1987 - 1988; Opel Corsa A (S83) in 1989 - 1991; Opel Kadett E (T85) in 1987 - 1993; Opel Vectra A (J89) in 1988 - 1993.
What are the common problems of the Opel C16NZ?
Most often, owners complain about ignition system failures, a spark disappears in it. The reason usually lies in the cover of the distributor, high-voltage wires or candles. All known problems.
