Thoroughly modern Midi
Page 12
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• The Bedford Midi van range has been revised for 1988. The changes include three new engines, an updated interior and minor cosmetic changes to its exterior.
The trio of new engines comprise a two-litre lowcompression petrol unit; a 2,2litre naturally-aspirated diesel and — for the first time — a two-litre turbocharged diesel. All three engines are built by Isuzu in Japan.
The 1,994cm3 lowcompression overhead camshaft petrol engine is a boredout version of the previous 1.8-litre Midi petrol power unit, which it supersedes. It develops maximum power of 61kW (81hp) with a peak torque of 151Nm (113lbft). This represents an 8% increse in power and a 16% increase in torque compared with the old 1,800cm3 unit.
According to Vauxhall, the four-cylinder spark-ignition engine can run on leaded or unleaded, two-star fuel. It has an 8.11 compression ratio and an automatic choke.
The 2,189cm3 naturallyaspirated diesel is also a boredout version of the superseded two-litre Midi diesel. With a maximum rating of 45kW (60hp) and peak torque of 126Nm (931bft), the latest N/A
diesel offers 5% more power and 12% torque.
For the first time the Midi is now being offered with an additional two-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which develops 13% more power and 32% more torque than its larger naturally-aspirated counterpart. Maximum power on the 1,995cm3 turbo diesel is 51kW (68hp), while peak torque is 167Nm (1231bft), delivered at 2,300rpm (all figures to EEC80/1269).
Turbo diesel Midis come with a floor-mounted gearshift in place of the normal columnmounted lever.
The three engines can be specified on any model within the Midi range, which is based on the Isuzu WFR design.
For 1988, all Midi panel and window vans and minibuses have been given a new basalt grey interior trim and a revised instrument panel and heating system. Exterior changes include a new front grille, lower front panel and revised badging front and rear.
The Midi range is marketed by Vauxhall Motors under the Bedford name, but is built at Luton by IBC Vehicles, the recently-formed company set up by General Motors and Isuzu, to take over the van building activities of Bedford Commercial Vehicles.