Skip to content
CarSpot
CommonVan · 1997–2000 · United Kingdom

Vauxhall Arena

A badge-engineered workhorse bridging the gap to the Vivaro.

Power
60 bhp
Top speed
73 mph

About the Vauxhall Arena

The Vauxhall Arena was a badge-engineered version of the first-generation Renault Trafic, introduced as a stop-gap measure to replace the ageing Bedford Midi before the launch of the Vivaro. It featured a naturally aspirated 1.9-litre diesel engine that prioritised fuel economy and simplicity over performance, resulting in one of the slowest acceleration times in its class. While it lacked the refinement of contemporary rivals like the Volkswagen Transporter, its front-wheel-drive layout provided a low load floor and decent urban manoeuvrability. Today, the Arena is exceptionally rare on UK roads, with most examples having been retired from commercial service or converted into budget campervans.

Vauxhall Arena specs

The Vauxhall Arena produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 73 mph (118 km/h).

Overview
MakeVauxhall
ModelArena
Trim1.9 D
Years1997–2000
TypeVan
Body styleVan
CountryUnited Kingdom
Performance
Engine1.9-litre inline-4 diesel
Displacement1,870 cc (1.9 litres)
InductionNaturally aspirated
Power60 bhp (45 kW) at 4,500 rpm
Torque108 Nm (80 lb-ft)
Redline5,000 rpm
Top speed73 mph (118 km/h)
Transmission5-speed manual
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive
Weight1,445 kg (3,186 lb)
Power-to-weight42 bhp per tonne

Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from

Vauxhall Arena rarity in CarSpot

The Vauxhall Arena is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 6 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.

Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works

Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.

Vauxhall Arena fun facts

  • The Arena was the result of a partnership between General Motors and Renault, which eventually led to the highly successful Vivaro and Trafic joint venture.
  • With a 0-100 km/h time of over 36 seconds, the 1.9 D variant was frequently cited by contemporary testers as one of the slowest vehicles on sale in the UK.
  • Despite its short three-year production run, the Arena helped Vauxhall maintain a presence in the medium van segment during its transition away from the Bedford brand.

More Vauxhall cars

All 111 Vauxhall models

Cars like the Vauxhall Arena

Browse all van cars

CarSpot · Free car-spotting app

Collect the Vauxhall Arena and thousands more

  • Snap a car to identify its make, model and year
  • Collect cards across six tiers, from Common to Unicorn
  • See specs, 0–60 times and estimated values
  • Build your garage, earn badges and map your spots