Opel Senator B 3.0i CAT (156 Hp) Automatic

Introduction to the Opel Senator B 3.0i CAT (156 Hp) Automatic

The Opel Senator B, launched in September 1987, represented Opel’s foray into the highly competitive European executive car segment. As the second generation of Opel’s flagship sedan, the Senator B was a sophisticated and comfortable vehicle designed to appeal to discerning buyers who sought a blend of German engineering, spaciousness, and understated luxury. While the Opel brand was not sold directly in the United States during this era, the Senator B’s design and mechanical underpinnings reflected General Motors’ global engineering capabilities, sharing its platform with the Opel Omega A. This particular variant, the Opel Senator B 3.0i CAT (156 Hp) Automatic, was a prominent offering, featuring a robust inline-six engine and an automatic transmission, positioning it as a capable cruiser for long-distance European travel. It was produced until September 1990, making it a significant model in Opel’s late 1980s lineup.

Engine and Performance of the Opel Senator B 3.0i CAT (156 Hp) Automatic

Under the hood, the Opel Senator B 3.0i CAT (156 Hp) Automatic was powered by a longitudinally mounted, naturally aspirated 3.0-liter (2969 cm³, or 181.18 cu. in.) inline-six engine, designated with the code C30LE. This engine featured a multi-port manifold injection system and a CIH (Cam-in-Head) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, a common and reliable configuration for Opel at the time. The “CAT” in its name signifies the inclusion of a catalytic converter, a crucial component for meeting increasingly stringent European emissions standards of the late 1980s.

The engine produced a respectable 156 horsepower at 5400 rpm, delivering a power-per-liter figure of 52.5 Hp/l. Torque output was equally impressive for its era, peaking at 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) across a broad range from 3800 to 4400 rpm, ensuring flexible performance. Power was sent to the rear wheels via a smooth 4-speed automatic transmission, emphasizing comfort and ease of driving over outright sportiness.

In terms of acceleration, the Senator B 3.0i CAT could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 10.3 seconds (0-100 km/h in 10.8 seconds), making it a competitive performer within its segment. Its maximum speed was a solid 130.49 mph (210 km/h), allowing for effortless cruising on the German autobahns. Despite its size and the automatic transmission, the vehicle achieved a combined fuel economy of approximately 21.8 US mpg (10.8 l/100 km), with extra-urban figures reaching 30.5 US mpg (7.7 l/100 km), demonstrating reasonable efficiency for a large sedan of its time. The engine’s compression ratio stood at 8.6:1, and it had a maximum engine speed of 6400 rpm.

Design and Features

The Opel Senator B adopted a classic four-door sedan body type, exuding a conservative yet elegant aesthetic that was typical for executive cars of the late 1980s. With a length of 190.75 inches (4845 mm), a width of 69.41 inches (1763 mm), and a height of 57.17 inches (1452 mm), it offered a substantial road presence. The long wheelbase of 107.48 inches (2730 mm) contributed to a spacious interior, comfortably accommodating five occupants.

Aerodynamics were a consideration in its design, evidenced by a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30, which was quite good for a sedan of its size and era, contributing to both fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise at higher speeds. The trunk capacity was generous, ranging from 18.72 cu. ft. (530 liters) to a maximum of 32.84 cu. ft. (930 liters) with the rear seats folded (if applicable, though typically less common for executive sedans of this era).

The Senator B featured an advanced suspension setup for its time, with an independent McPherson strut system at the front, complemented by coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear utilized an independent coil spring system with a transverse stabilizer and trailing arms, providing a comfortable ride and stable handling characteristics. Braking performance was handled by ventilated discs at the front and disc brakes at the rear, augmented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a significant safety feature for 1987. Steering was a hydraulic power-assisted cone worm with recirculation balls type, ensuring light and precise control. The car rode on 205/65 R15 tires, fitted on 15-inch wheel rims (6J x 15 or 7J x 15).

Technical Specifications: Opel Senator B 3.0i CAT (156 Hp) Automatic

Legacy and Market Impact of the Opel Senator B

The Opel Senator B 3.0i CAT (156 Hp) Automatic, and the Senator B line as a whole, carved out a distinct niche in the European executive car market. Positioned as Opel’s answer to competitors like the Ford Scorpio, Renault 25, and Saab 9000, it also sought to offer a more value-oriented alternative to premium German rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124) and BMW 5 Series (E34). While it might not have carried the same luxury cachet as its Bavarian counterparts, the Senator B was highly regarded for its robust build quality, comfortable ride, and spacious interior.

Its rear-wheel-drive architecture, shared with the Opel Omega, contributed to balanced handling dynamics that were appreciated by drivers. The 3.0-liter inline-six engine, particularly with the catalytic converter, represented a blend of traditional European executive power with modern environmental consciousness, a growing concern in the late 1980s. The automatic transmission further cemented its appeal as a comfortable long-distance cruiser, perfect for executives and families embarking on inter-European journeys.

The Senator B developed a reputation for being a durable and reliable vehicle, often serving as a preferred choice for taxi fleets in some European countries, a testament to its longevity and low running costs compared to more expensive premium brands. Although its production run for this specific variant was relatively short (1987-1990), the Senator B continued in other forms until 1993, eventually being succeeded by the Omega B as Opel’s largest sedan. Today, the Opel Senator B is remembered as a capable and often overlooked executive sedan, embodying the practical and dependable spirit of Opel engineering during a transitional period for the automotive industry. It remains a classic example of European automotive design and technology from the late 20th century, appreciated by enthusiasts for its comfort, performance, and understated elegance.