Vauxhall Signum / Vectra Estate 2.2 Direct PETROL

[DarrylFlynn]

Has anyone had any experience with either of these cars when fitted with the later 2.2 Direct Injection PETROL engine from 2005 onwards.

I have had a Vectra 1.9CDTi 150bhp before and it was a very good car however these 2.2 Petrols are available at silly prices and generally with lower mileage on them.

Advice and findings Good or Bad much appreciated.

Regards Darryl

Thanks Darryl

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Darryl

I have no practical experience of either car but reviewing their technical data I make the following observations.

Model Vectra Signum

Engine 1.9CDTi 150 2.2 Petrol

Trans Manual Manual

Mx power 147 152

Mx Torque 315 220

0-60 8.8 8.8

MPG 47 34

CO2 159 194

Road Tax G135 J 235

Ins grp 10 11

Weight 1469 1488

Seats 5 4

M towed wt 1600 1500

Both cars are equally quick to 60mph, which shows that power isn't everything. Its the spread of the power band through the rev range that make the real difference.

In terms of max power output, the Signum has the edge at 152 compared to 147, but most contributors agree that diesel engines are better for towing, as they generally offer greater torque at low engine speeds compared to similar sized petrol engines. In this comparison the smaller engine produces 315Nm compared to the Signum's 215Nm Both will tow but the diesel is likely to be more relaxed needing fewer gear changes.

The Vectra's lower emissions keeps VED down, and it has a lower Insurance group all this coupled to its 38% better fuel economy leads to lower running costs

It looks as though Signum has a shorter distance between the rear axle and the position of the tow ball compared to the Vectra. This will mean the Signum should keep better control of the caravan and be less affected by side winds and passing lorries etc, but ultimately that will depend on the suspension set up.

Even though the Signum is marginally heavier and it has slightly more peak power , its towing limit is restricted to 1500Kg 100Kg less than the Vectra. The Signum only has 4 seats (it was designed as an executive transport rather than a family car) but its two rear seat passengers are given class leading legroom and toys.

If you are looking at keeping costs down, the Vectra wins, but if you are looking for a bit more style and space then the Signum may be the choice for you

It might be worth looking for the 1.9CDTi version of the Signum, weight is better at 1613Kg, Torque and towing limit rise to match Vectra Tax and insurance remain the same as for the 2.2Petrol but the Mpg improves to 39mpg (+14%)

Suprisingly the Signum 3.0 V6 CDTi Elite offers even better fuel economy of 40MPG, with a massive 400Nm torque and only a group 12 insurance, and it has a 1700Kg towing limit

 

[Daveg1]

Hi Darryl,

I have a Vectra 2.2 estate and find it a superb towing machine. It is however a long vehicle.

The low values may be down to a reliability issue in the high pressure fuel system. This has two parts a regulator and the high pressure pump - the later being the part which failed. I believe the regulator (the source of the problem)is now subject to a recall and will be checked and if necessary replaced free of charge for all vehicles - including those well out of warranty. If you have any problems with your local dealer on this phone Vauxhall customer services yourself, quote the vehicle registration number and they will tell you if it is subject to the recall.

Regards,

Dave

 

[Labradorlass]

Darryl,

Whilst I appreciate you were asking about the petrol Signum/Vectra I thought I would throw this in to the mix.

I previously towed with a LR Disco V8 auto, no probs but drank fuel ( even with LPG ). Petrol cars like more rev to keep the umph going.

Changed to a 3 litre, V6 diesel Signum and boy oh boy what a tool. Tows in 6th, rarely needs to go over 1500 rpm as it has bucket loads of torque, and tows up hill like a train. It has returned just shy of 30mpg towing on all classes of road.

Mine is less than four years old, low milage, and half the price of a BMW/Audi equivilent, and it comes with more toys than an Ann Summers store!!

I believe, though take quote me on this, that engine is available in the Vectra. The Signum wouldn't necessarily be everyones cup of tea but it sure is a good tow car.