Power to the People: 2007 Opel Vectra OPC, Vauxhall Vectra VXR with 280Hp and 500Hp Monaro VXR500

Starting with the 2007 Vectra OPC (Vauxhall Vectra VXR in the UK), thanks to a redesigned induction system, modified engine components and retuned electronic engine control software, the 2.8 litre V6 Turbo engine now produces 280 Hp (from 250 Hp). These revisions knock four-tenths of a second off the 0-60mph sprint time, taking it down to just 6.1 seconds for the hatchback and 6.3 seconds for the estate.

To match the engine's extra power, Vauxhall's engineers have also tweaked the chassis to give more dynamic handling. Modified spring and shock absorber settings and correspondingly retuned IDS Plus2 chassis control software is said to optimise the pitch, roll and turn-in characteristics. The difference between the normal chassis setting and the Sport setting, which is activated by the dashboard-mounted Sport Switch, has been further increased too, making sure that the Vectra's handling can cope with the most enthusiastic driver's demands. The revised 2007 Opel Vectra OPC will make it's world premiere at the Paris Show.

2007 Vauxhall Monaro VXR500: The Auzzie derived Monaro Coupe has had an even more dramatic power boost, thanks to a supercharger. Called VXR500, the limited-edition Monaro uses the standard 6.0-litre engine, but thanks to forced induction power goes up from 403 to 500 Hp and torque up from 530 Nm to a massive 677Nm.

In addition the conversion also includes an upgraded fuel system, clutch revisions and bespoke engine tune. Vauxhall expects that the VXR500 will have a sub five second 0-60 mph time and a top speed in excess of 180 mph. According to Vauxhall, the limited edition Monaro VXR500 will be available for £35,995 in the UK

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