The Vauxhall X20XEV OPC is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2002. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16‑valve layout with sequential multi‑point fuel injection and a higher-lift cam profile compared to the standard X20XEV. In OPC-tuned form it delivered 105 kW (143 PS) at 6,300 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm, providing sportier response for hot-hatch applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Astra G OPC (VXR in later markets), the X20XEV OPC was engineered for spirited driving with enhanced throttle response and mid-range flexibility. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 3 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobe and hydraulic tappets, leading to valve train noise and power loss. This issue, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑01‑06‑02, is attributed to elevated valve spring pressures and marginal oil film strength under high-RPM operation. From 2001, revised camshafts with improved surface hardening were introduced for OPC-spec engines.
Production years 1999–2002 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Vauxhall X20XEV OPC is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks (1999–2002). It combines DOHC 16‑valve architecture with a sport-tuned cam profile and sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver responsive, linear power and agile driving dynamics. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances track-ready character with road legality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.1) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 116 kg |
The high-lift cam profile provides sharp throttle response ideal for spirited driving but increases valve train stress, requiring strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using GM-LL-A-025 (5W-30) oil. Early engines (1999–2000) are prone to exhaust cam lobe wear due to elevated spring pressures and marginal lubrication at high RPM. Revised camshafts introduced in 2001 feature improved nitriding. The Bosch Motronic system relies on precise cam position feedback; degraded sensors can trigger misfires and limp mode. Chain-driven timing is generally durable but inspect for tensioner wear if valve train noise occurs.
Oil Specs: Requires Vauxhall GM-LL-A-025 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall TSB-01-06-02). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1999–2002 X20XEV OPC engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). No Euro 2 or Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified for Astra G OPC only (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V15678).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V15678, V15720, TSB-01-06-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall X20XEV OPC was used exclusively in the Astra G OPC platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received performance-specific adaptations—higher-rate valve springs, sport camshafts, and revised ECU maps—and from 2001 the camshaft metallurgy was updated to address wear concerns, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V15690). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('0' for X20 series). All X20XEV OPC units feature a red valve cover with 'OPC' badge and Bosch Motronic ECU with OBD-II port under dash. Critical differentiation from standard X20XEV: OPC version has higher-lift camshafts, stiffer valve springs, and unique exhaust manifold. Pre-2001 engines use early-design cam lobes; post-2001 units feature hardened lobes per TSB-01-06-02.
The X20XEV OPC's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for track days or aggressive driving. Vauxhall internal service data from 2003 indicated a notable rate of camshaft replacement before 100,000 km in OPC fleets, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased misfire-related failures linked to valve train degradation. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality oil accelerate wear, making oil specification and service discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1999–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X20XEV-OPC.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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