The Minolta Zoom 160c is a 35mm camera. It belongs to the group of snapshot cameras and was aimed more at beginners. The model was built in a factory in China.
The camera comes with a zoom lens that cannot be changed. 37.5 mm to 160 mm is the zoom range of the lens. The widest aperture of the camera is f/5.4 (wide angle) and f/12.4 (telephoto). The camera has autofocus. The closest focusing distance of this lens is 60 cm (wide angle) and 95 cm (telephoto), respectively.
The Minolta Zoom 160c has a light meter. It is designed for an ISO range of 25 to 3200. The film speed is read out via the DX code. The 35mm photo camera has automatic exposure control. The photographer cannot select the aperture and exposure time.
There is a built-in flash for low-light photography. The flash range extends up to 4.6 meters at ISO 100. There are various flash modes. However, the flash can also be turned off completely
The 35mm camera has a self-timer. There is also a thread for a tripod. There is an eyelet on the side for a wrist strap.
The dimensions of the Minolta Zoom 160c are 11 x 6 x 4.6 cm, according to the instruction manual. At the same time, it weighs 190 grams. The power source of the camera is a CR123A battery (eBay / Amazon*). These batteries are still easy to get. One battery has a runtime for about 14 rolls of 24 pictures each. The flash was used for half of the 336 pictures in the test.
Films for the Minolta Zoom 160c
The Minolta Zoom 160c is designed for 35mm format. The film is automatically rewound by the camera after each frame. The transport into the cartridge also works with a motor.
35mm film is still made today and is fairly easy to get. A nice choice for color images the Kodak Portra 400* and for B&W images the Kodak T-Max 400*. Of course, there are a variety of other 35mm films available for this camera.
Minolta Zoom 160c QD
Additionally, a Quartz Date model of the camera was offered. This model can print the shooting time into the images. This makes it easy to see when each photo was taken. The calendar can be used for dates up to the year 2099.
Additionally, the QD model comes with a wireless remote control. With the RC-3 infrared remote control, the camera’s shutter can be released from a distance of up to five meters. The remote control needs a CR2032 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 37.5 mm - 160 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/5.4 |
| Minimum focus distance | 60 cm / 1.968 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Lens design | 6 elements in 6 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 10 seconds |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,6 to 4,6 Meter / 1.97 to 15.09 Feet |
| Flash modes | Fill-in flash, Red-eye reduction |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 11 x 6 x 4,6 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.33 x 2.36 x 1.81 inches |
| Weight | 190 Grams |
| Country of production | China |
| Estimated value / Used price | 70,76 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 7 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 65,44 Euro (70.36 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 72,69 Euro (77.93 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 87,29 Euro (94.17 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Zoom 160c
Is this camera good for beginners?
Yes, the Minolta Zoom 160c is designed for beginners. It's a point-and-shoot camera with automatic settings, making it easy to use. Its simple operation makes it perfect for those starting in photography.
What kind of lens does the camera have?
It has a built-in zoom lens; you cannot change it. The zoom range is 37.5mm to 160mm, allowing you to get both wide shots and closer views. This fixed lens simplifies usage.
Does the camera have a flash?
Yes, it has a built-in flash. It's useful for low-light situations, and its range extends up to 4.6 meters at ISO 100. You can also switch the flash off.
How long does the battery last?
The Minolta Zoom 160c uses a CR123A battery. It's reported to last for about 14 rolls of 24 exposures each, with approximately half of the shots using the flash. Battery life may vary.
What type of film does this snapshot camera use?
The camera uses standard 35mm film. It automatically advances the film after each shot. 35mm film is still readily available in many varieties, including color and black and white.