The 1.8-liter Opel C18NZ engine was assembled from 1988 to 1995 at an enterprise in Germany and was installed on the two most popular models of the Astra and Vectra concern, and for another year on the Kadett. The unit is not related to the C14NZ / C16NZ motors, but is a smaller version of the C20NE.
C10 family: C14NZ, C16NZ, C18NZ.
Specifications
| Production years | 1988-1995 |
| Displacement, cc | 1796 |
| Fuel system | single injection |
| Power output, hp | 90 |
| Torque output, Nm | 145 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84.8 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 79.5 |
| 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 | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 1 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Opel Vectra 1994) — city — highway — combined |
10.2 5.5 7.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~330 000 |
| Weight, kg | 130 |
The engine was installed on:
- Opel Astra F (T92) in 1991 – 1994;
- Opel Kadett E (T85) in 1990 – 1991;
- Opel Vectra A (J89) in 1988 – 1995.
Disadvantages of the C18NZ engine
- This engine has no pronounced weaknesses, all its problems are from old age;
- Most often, failures occur in the ignition system or some sensors are buggy;
- The timing belt does not have a very large resource, but when it breaks, the valves do not bend;
- If you use low-quality oil, then closer to 100,000 km, hydraulic lifters will knock.
Frequently asked questions about the Opel C18NZ
How much power does the Opel C18NZ make?
The Opel C18NZ develops 90 hp and 145 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Opel C18NZ take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Opel C18NZ have a timing belt or chain?
The Opel C18NZ uses a timing belt.
Is the Opel C18NZ turbocharged?
No, the Opel C18NZ is naturally aspirated.
Does the Opel C18NZ need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Opel C18NZ has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Opel C18NZ last?
The typical lifespan of the Opel C18NZ is ~330 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Opel C18NZ?
Opel Vectra 1994: city 10.2, highway 5.5, combined 7.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the Opel C18NZ installed on?
Opel Astra F (T92) in 1991 - 1994; Opel Kadett E (T85) in 1990 - 1991; Opel Vectra A (J89) in 1988 - 1995.
What are the common problems of the Opel C18NZ?
This engine has no pronounced weaknesses, all its problems are from old age. Most often, failures occur in the ignition system or some sensors are buggy. All known problems.





