We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1380 kg kg with this Opel.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1250 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The Opel Astra 1.6 CDTi with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1250 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the Opel is in general fairly good. But the weight of the Caravan with a User Payload (70 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is quite heavy, but no problem if the caravan is well loaded and the driving speed is not too fast.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
211
212
Mountains
Risk of snaking
240
143
Weight ratio: 81% (93% of kerbweight)
1250 kg
1550 kg
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Opel Astra 1.6 CDTi Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1250 kg.
Opel Astra 1.6 CDTi: 1550 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 81%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally good on flat roads (performance score to compare 211 points).
Speeds of 71 mph (114 km/h) to 76 mph (123 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is more than enough power at low engine speeds (score to compare 212 points).
Slightly higher revs (1700 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 19.7 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally good (score to compare 240 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 18%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (2500 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 62 mph (100 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Opel is more than sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, a B driving license is enough.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 81%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 93%.
There is a small chance of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are great at high speed. For drivers with knowledge of, and experience in driving a caravan it is safe to drive, but proper and careful loading is still important! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is worth considering.
Recommended noseweight is 70 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 143 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is fairly good.
If the caravan is well loaded safe driving is possible.
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.