The Opel Monterey RS 3.2i V6 24V 4×4, produced from May 1992 to April 1998, represented Opel’s entry into the burgeoning mid-size SUV market. Positioned as a more rugged and capable alternative to traditional station wagons, the Monterey was largely based on the Isuzu Trooper, a result of GM’s partnership with Isuzu. The RS variant, signifying “Rally Sport,” was the top-of-the-line trim, boasting the most powerful engine option available for the Monterey. It aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of off-road capability, family practicality, and a degree of performance. The Monterey, and specifically the RS 3.2i, was primarily sold in Europe, where the demand for SUVs was steadily increasing throughout the 1990s.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Monterey |
| Generation | Monterey |
| Type (Engine) | RS 3.2i V6 24V (177 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | May, 1992 |
| End of production | April, 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 98.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 177 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 3750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 6VD1 |
| Engine displacement | 3165 cm3 (193.14 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93.4 mm (3.68 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1795 kg (3957.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2600 kg (5732.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 805 kg (1774.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1339 l (47.29 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1934 l (68.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Length | 4270 mm (168.11 in.) |
| Width | 1745 mm (68.7 in.) |
| Height | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2330 mm (91.73 in.) |
| Front track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Monterey RS 3.2i was the 6VD1 engine, a 3.2-liter, naturally aspirated V6. This engine, derived from Isuzu’s designs, featured a 90-degree V-angle, contributing to a smoother engine operation. It employed a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The engine utilized an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain, operating 24 valves (four per cylinder). The 3.2L V6 produced 177 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The RS model was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, designed to handle the engine’s output and provide drivers with greater control. The transmission was coupled with a robust four-wheel-drive system, featuring a selectable 4H and 4L range for enhanced off-road performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Monterey RS 3.2i, while not a sports car, offered a respectable level of performance for its class. The 177 hp engine provided adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the lower-spec Monterey models with smaller engines, the RS offered a noticeably more responsive driving experience. The 4×4 system provided excellent traction on loose surfaces, making it a capable off-roader. However, the Monterey’s relatively high weight (1795 kg / 3957.3 lbs) and tall SUV body meant it wasn’t particularly nimble in corners. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance between on-road cruising and off-road crawling, rather than outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RS trim level represented the highest specification available for the Monterey. Standard features included power windows, power steering, central locking, and an upgraded audio system. The interior typically featured cloth upholstery, although leather was available as an optional extra. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with clearly labeled controls. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and alloy wheels. The RS also featured some unique exterior styling cues, such as body-colored bumpers and side moldings, to differentiate it from the lower trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Monterey utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension employed a double wishbone setup, while the rear featured a coil spring arrangement. This suspension configuration aimed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard on the RS model, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Monterey RS 3.2i was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its off-road capability and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted its relatively high fuel consumption (14.4 l/100 km) and somewhat dated interior design. Compared to other SUVs on the market at the time, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Mitsubishi Pajero, the Monterey offered a more affordable alternative, but lacked the same level of refinement and brand prestige. The lower-spec Monterey models, with their smaller engines, offered better fuel economy but significantly less performance. The RS model appealed to buyers who prioritized performance and off-road capability over fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Opel Monterey, while not a massive sales success, established Opel as a player in the growing SUV market. The 3.2-liter V6 engine proved to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues. Today, the Monterey RS 3.2i is becoming increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate its rugged character and classic SUV styling. Parts availability can be a challenge, as the Monterey is now an older vehicle, but a dedicated community of owners and enthusiasts helps to keep these vehicles on the road. The Monterey’s legacy lies in its role as a pioneering SUV that paved the way for Opel’s future forays into the crossover and SUV segments.
