Vauxhall Senator B 2.5i (140 Hp)

The Vauxhall Senator B 2.5i (140 Hp) represents a distinctive chapter in the history of European executive sedans, a segment characterized by its blend of comfort, performance, and understated luxury. Produced between 1987 and 1990, this particular iteration of the Senator B was a flagship offering from Vauxhall, the British arm of General Motors’ Opel division. While not a direct competitor in the North American market, where larger, often V8-powered sedans dominated the luxury space, the Senator B carved out its niche in the United Kingdom and continental Europe as a sophisticated, rear-wheel-drive alternative to premium offerings from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. It was designed for discerning buyers seeking a refined driving experience, ample interior space, and a comprehensive suite of features, all wrapped in a discreet yet elegant package. The Senator B, which shared its platform with the Opel Omega/Carlton, was a testament to late 1980s automotive engineering, focusing on durability, smooth power delivery, and a comfortable ride suitable for long-distance cruising. Its role was to elevate the Vauxhall brand’s image, demonstrating its capability to produce a high-quality, full-sized executive car that could hold its own in a competitive market.

The Vauxhall Senator B: A European Executive Standard

The Vauxhall Senator B, the second generation of the Senator line, built upon the legacy of its predecessor by offering enhanced aerodynamics, improved ergonomics, and more refined powertrain options. Launched in 1987, the Senator B quickly established itself as a credible contender in the European executive class. Its design philosophy emphasized clean lines and a purposeful stance, contributing to a remarkably low drag coefficient of 0.30 for its era. This aerodynamic efficiency not only improved fuel economy but also reduced wind noise, contributing to the serene cabin environment expected of an executive vehicle. The Senator B was offered exclusively as a four-door sedan, a body style synonymous with executive transport, providing generous seating for five occupants and a substantial trunk capacity of 18.72 cubic feet, making it practical for both business and leisure travel. Its robust construction and emphasis on passenger comfort made it a popular choice for company fleets, government officials, and private buyers who valued its blend of reliability and sophisticated road manners.

Powertrain and Performance of the Vauxhall Senator B 2.5i

At the heart of the Vauxhall Senator B 2.5i (140 Hp) lay a robust 2.5-liter (2490 cm3 or 151.95 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine, designated by the code 25NE. This naturally aspirated unit featured a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, a common and reliable configuration for the period. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port manifold injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering and efficient combustion. With a compression ratio of 9.2:1, the engine produced a respectable 140 horsepower at 5200 rpm, translating to a power output of 56.2 horsepower per liter. Torque figures were equally impressive for a four-cylinder of its size, generating 151.2 lb.-ft. (205 Nm) at a relatively low 4200 rpm, providing ample pulling power across the rev range. This engine was longitudinally mounted at the front, driving the rear wheels through a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, a setup favored for its balanced handling characteristics and traditional driving feel. The combination allowed the Senator B 2.5i to achieve a top speed of 129.87 mph (209 km/h), making it more than capable of sustained high-speed cruising on European motorways. Its weight-to-power ratio of 10 kg/Hp (99.6 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.9 kg/Nm (145.9 Nm/tonne) underscored its ability to deliver a composed and confident performance, even when fully laden.

Design, Comfort, and Safety Features

The design of the Vauxhall Senator B was a study in understated elegance, characterized by its long, flowing lines and a well-proportioned silhouette. Measuring 190.75 inches in length, 69.41 inches in width, and 57.09 inches in height, with a substantial 107.48-inch wheelbase, the Senator B offered a commanding road presence while ensuring a spacious and comfortable cabin. The interior was appointed with materials and finishes that reflected its executive status, prioritizing comfort and ergonomic functionality. Standard features for the era included power steering, central locking, and electric windows, contributing to the overall convenience. For its time, the Senator B incorporated advanced safety features, notably an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, which significantly enhanced driver control during emergency braking maneuvers. The braking system itself comprised ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing reliable stopping power. The suspension system was engineered for comfort and stability, featuring an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, complemented by an independent coil spring rear suspension. This configuration delivered a smooth ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections, while maintaining composed handling. The vehicle rode on 6J x 15-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance between ride comfort and steering responsiveness. With a minimum turning circle of 33.14 feet, the Senator B was surprisingly maneuverable for its size, aiding in urban driving and parking. The car’s substantial kerb weight of 3097.49 lbs. (1405 kg) contributed to its solid feel and stability on the road, further enhancing the sense of security for its occupants. The fuel tank capacity of 19.81 US gallons (75 liters) ensured a considerable cruising range, reinforcing its suitability for long journeys without frequent stops for refueling. Furthermore, the Senator B was designed with practicality in mind, boasting a maximum roof load of 220.46 lbs. and impressive towing capacities, with 3747.86 lbs. (1700 kg) with brakes and 1587.33 lbs. (720 kg) without brakes, highlighting its versatility beyond just executive transport.

Technical Specifications for the Vauxhall Senator B 2.5i (140 Hp)