Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (180 Hp) Automatic

The Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (180 Hp) Automatic represents a significant, albeit often overlooked, chapter in the history of European executive sedans. Produced by the British marque Vauxhall, a subsidiary of General Motors, from 1979 to 1982, the Royale was essentially a rebadged version of the Opel Senator A, tailored for the UK market. At a time when British manufacturers were grappling with evolving market demands and increasing competition from continental Europe, the Royale emerged as Vauxhall’s flagship, designed to offer a blend of luxury, performance, and sophisticated engineering. This particular variant, the 3.0 E V6 with its robust 180 horsepower and automatic transmission, embodied the pinnacle of Vauxhall’s offerings in the executive class during its production run. Positioned as a direct competitor to prestige models from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the Royale aimed to provide a compelling alternative for discerning buyers who valued comfort, refinement, and a distinctly European driving experience, all while navigating the challenging economic landscape of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its role in the UK market was crucial, serving as a halo car that showcased Vauxhall’s technical capabilities and design aspirations, even if its ultimate sales figures reflected the broader market challenges faced by its parent company.

Engine & Performance: The Heart of the Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (180 Hp) Automatic

At the core of the 1979-1982 Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (180 Hp) Automatic lay a powertrain engineered for smooth, authoritative performance befitting an executive sedan of its era. The vehicle was propelled by a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter (2969 cm³ or 181.18 cu. in.) V6 engine, a configuration that was both respected for its inherent balance and widely adopted in premium European vehicles. This particular engine, designated “E” for electronic fuel injection, utilized a multi-port manifold injection system, a relatively advanced feature for the time that contributed to improved fuel atomization and more precise engine control compared to carbureted setups. With a compression ratio of 9.4:1 and a SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, the engine was designed for a blend of reliability and accessible power delivery.

The V6 unit generated a respectable 180 horsepower at 5800 rpm, translating to a specific output of 60.6 HP per liter. More significantly for daily driving and highway cruising, it produced a healthy 182.92 lb.-ft. of torque, available across a broad rev range from 4200 to 4800 rpm. This torque characteristic ensured ample pulling power and responsive acceleration, allowing the Royale to maintain its composure whether navigating city streets or covering long distances on the autobahn-inspired European motorways. Power was efficiently transferred to the rear wheels via a 3-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for luxury vehicles of the period, emphasizing effortless driving over ultimate sportiness. The longitudinal engine layout and rear-wheel-drive architecture provided a traditional, balanced driving dynamic that was highly valued in the executive segment.

In terms of outright performance, the Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (180 Hp) Automatic was capable of reaching a maximum speed of 127.38 mph (205 km/h), a highly competitive figure for a large sedan from the late 1970s. Its weight-to-power ratio of 7.6 kg/Hp (or 131.4 Hp per tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 5.5 kg/Nm (181 Nm per tonne) underscore its capable performance. While performance metrics like 0-60 mph times were not explicitly provided, these ratios suggest a vehicle that was brisk for its class. Fuel economy, a growing concern even then, was rated at 16.1 US mpg (14.6 l/100 km) in urban driving, reflecting the realities of a large displacement V6 engine coupled with a three-speed automatic transmission and the prevailing engine technologies of the era. The 19.81 US gallon (75-liter) fuel tank capacity ensured a reasonable cruising range, further cementing its credentials as a capable grand tourer.

Design & Features: Elegance and Engineering in the Vauxhall Royale

The Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (180 Hp) Automatic, as a four-door sedan with seating for five, embodied the classic proportions and understated elegance expected of a European executive car from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its design was characterized by clean lines, a relatively low roofline for its size, and a commanding presence that communicated luxury and status without excessive ornamentation. With a length of 192.01 inches (4877 mm), a width of 68.03 inches (1728 mm), and a height of 53.78 inches (1366 mm), the Royale commanded a significant footprint on the road, contributing to both its stable ride and generous interior space. The wheelbase of 105.63 inches (2683 mm) was instrumental in providing a smooth ride quality and ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, critical attributes for an executive vehicle.

Beyond its exterior aesthetics, the Royale boasted a sophisticated chassis and suspension setup that was advanced for its time. The front suspension featured an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, a configuration known for its balance of comfort and precise handling. At the rear, an independent multi-link suspension system further enhanced ride comfort and road holding, providing a level of sophistication often associated with more premium marques. This independent suspension at both ends was a hallmark of its Opel Senator lineage, distinguishing it from some contemporaries that might have opted for simpler, less refined rear axle designs. Braking performance was equally robust, with ventilated discs at the front and disc brakes at the rear, offering confident stopping power for a vehicle of its size and performance capabilities.

Inside, the Vauxhall Royale was designed to offer a comfortable and well-appointed environment. While specific interior features like climate control or power windows (which would have been optional or standard depending on trim) are not detailed in the raw data, its positioning as a flagship model suggests a high level of standard equipment for the era. The trunk (boot) space measured a practical 13.91 cu. ft. (394 liters), sufficient for luggage for multiple occupants on long journeys. The maximum load capacity of 1168.45 lbs (530 kg) and a roof load capacity of 176.37 lbs (80 kg) further highlighted its practicality as a capable touring machine. The Royale’s minimum turning circle of 32.94 feet (10.04 m) was also commendable for a vehicle of its dimensions, aiding maneuverability in urban settings. Overall, the Vauxhall Royale represented a compelling package of elegant design, sophisticated engineering, and practical luxury, making it a distinctive player in the European executive car market of its time.

Technical Specifications