1972 Vauxhall Vectra

The Vectra was introduced in 1988 as a replacement to the Opel Ascona and itself was replaced in 2008 by the Opel Insignia, that will retain the Chevrolet Vectra name for the Latin American market.

The first Vectra, known as the Vectra A, was introduced in 1988 as a saloon and hatchback, replacing the Opel Ascona C. A coupé based on the Vectra, called the Calibra, was also sold. Both cars were designed by then-Opel design chief Wayne Cherry. Vauxhall, GM's British subsidiary which shared most of its models with Opel, did not call this model "Vectra" but rather marketed it as the Cavalier.

Engines ranged initially from a 75PS (55kW) 1.4L to a 130PS (96kW) 2.0L Family II. With the introduction of Euro I emissions regulations, the base model was replaced by a 1.6L with the same output, while the top of the line was given to a 16-valve version of the 2.0L engine, which powered the GT (GSI) version, and had 150PS (110kW). Four-wheel drive versions were added to the lineup in 1990, and in 1993, the car received a limited edition turbocharged version, with 204PS (150kW). The 1.4-litre engine was not available in all markets, and even then, it was only available in basic trims (Base/ L in United Kingdom, LS/ GL in Europe). A 2.5L V6 engine appeared towards the later stages of the Vectra's life, developing 170 PS (125kW), turning the car into a relaxed motorway cruiser rather than give it sporty pretensions.