The Vauxhall Royale 2.5 (115 Hp), produced between 1978 and 1980, represented a significant offering in the European executive car segment during its brief production run. As a quintessential example of Vauxhall’s strategy in the late 1970s, the Royale was essentially a rebadged version of the German-engineered Opel Senator, tailored specifically for the British market. This approach allowed Vauxhall, the UK arm of General Motors (GM), to offer a sophisticated, large sedan without incurring the immense development costs of an entirely new platform. Positioned above the Carlton in Vauxhall’s lineup, the Royale aimed to compete with established European luxury contenders, providing a blend of comfort, space, and respectable performance for its era. Its introduction marked Vauxhall’s ambition to cater to discerning buyers seeking a more upscale driving experience, embodying the design and engineering prowess of its Opel sibling while retaining a distinct British identity through its badging, a common practice in the era for cross-market models.
