1997 Opel Vectra B Caravan Dimensions, Size & Specs

With the mirrors folded in, the Opel Vectra B Caravan is 1707 mm (67.2 inches) wide, but when the side mirrors are opened, the width varies between 1841 mm (72.5 inches) and 1941 mm (76.4 inches), depending on mirror adjustment. This range reflects the mirror designs that can impact parking space considerations and garage fit, making the car wider by approximately 13-23 centimeters (5-9 inches) on each side when mirrors are extended.

The Opel Vectra B Caravan from the 1997 model year has a curb weight ranging from 1255 kg to 1468 kg (about 2767 to 3235 pounds), depending on trim level and equipment. Its maximum permissible weight ranges between 1850 kg and 1995 kg (approximately 4079 to 4399 pounds). This weight spectrum accommodates variations for different engines, optional features, and load capacities, providing insight into the vehicle's structural capabilities and fuel efficiency parameters.

The Opel Vectra B Caravan offers a practical luggage capacity of 460 liters (approximately 16.2 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright. When the rear seats are folded down, this capacity significantly expands to 1490 liters (about 52.6 cubic feet). This flexibility makes the Vectra B Caravan exceptionally versatile for carrying both daily cargo and larger items, making it a strong choice for families and those requiring occasional extra storage.

The ground clearance of the 1997 Opel Vectra B Caravan ranges from 140 mm to 160 mm (about 5.5 to 6.3 inches). This moderate ride height provides a good balance between road handling stability and the ability to clear common obstacles such as speed bumps and uneven surfaces, making it suitable for everyday urban use and light rural driving without compromising comfort.

Yes, the Opel Vectra B Caravan, with its length of 4490 mm (176.8 inches), width of 1707 mm (67.2 inches), and height of 1490 mm (58.7 inches), generally fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Standard garage door widths are typically around 2400 to 2700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches), so even accounting for the wider mirror span (up to 1941 mm or 76.4 inches), careful parking is needed. Its manageable height and length also ensure it fits well in typical garage spaces without issue.

The Opel Vectra B Caravan, produced from 1995 to 1998, is slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor, the Vectra A Caravan. The Vectra B measures 4490 mm in length compared to approximately 4430 mm of the Vectra A, marking a growth that enhances interior space and cargo room. Additionally, the Vectra B carries more curb weight (1255–1468 kg) than the typically lighter Vectra A, reflecting structural reinforcements and added features that improved safety and refinement. Overall, these changes contributed to a more mature, spacious, and comfortable vehicle compared to the Vectra A.

In comparison to contemporaries such as the Ford Mondeo Wagon and Volkswagen Passat Variant from the mid-1990s, the Opel Vectra B Caravan sits squarely in the mid-size segment. Its length of 4490 mm is broadly comparable to the Mondeo's approximately 4620 mm and slightly shorter than the Passat's near 4650 mm. The Vectra B is slightly narrower than these competitors but offers competitive cargo space and a balanced weight profile. The Vectra's combination of dimensions and capacity made it an attractive option for buyers seeking practicality, comfort, and European styling in a station wagon.

The Opel Vectra B Caravan came with tire sizes such as 195/65R15 and 215/45R17, mounted on rims sized 5.5Jx15, 15, or 17 inches. These tire and rim combinations balanced ride comfort, handling precision, and road grip, making the car adaptable to different driving styles and conditions. The availability of 17-inch rims offered a sportier option for buyers seeking enhanced aesthetics and a firmer ride.

The maximum roof load for the Opel Vectra B Caravan is 100 kg (220 lbs). This roof load capacity allows owners to carry additional cargo such as roof boxes, bicycles, skis, or other outdoor equipment safely. This makes the Vectra B Caravan particularly versatile for family trips, sports activities, and other situations demanding extra luggage space beyond the ample rear cargo bay, without compromising vehicle stability or safety.