The Opel Omega A 2.3 D CAT (73 hp) was a diesel-powered variant of the first-generation Opel Omega, produced between 1986 and 1993. Positioned as the entry-level diesel offering within the Omega A range, it catered to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and durability over outright performance. This model played a significant role in Opel’s European market presence, offering a practical and relatively affordable large family sedan. It was a direct competitor to vehicles like the Ford Granada and Volkswagen Passat, offering a spacious interior and a robust, if unhurried, driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Omega |
| Generation | Omega A |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 D CAT (73 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1986 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 20.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 20.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 19.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 163 km/h (101.28 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 73 Hp @ 4400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 32.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 138 Nm @ 2400 rpm (101.78 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 23YD |
| Engine displacement | 2260 cm3 (137.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 23:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1355 kg (2987.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 870 l (30.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4740 mm (186.61 in.) |
| Width | 1760 mm (69.29 in.) |
| Height | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Rear track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/70 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Omega A 2.3 D CAT was the 23YD engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four diesel. This engine utilized precombustion chamber injection, a common diesel technology of the era. This system involved injecting fuel into a small pre-chamber within the cylinder head, where it partially combusted before igniting the main charge. This design aided in smoother combustion and reduced engine noise compared to direct injection systems. The engine produced 73 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 138 Nm (101.78 lb-ft) of torque at 2400 rpm. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a relatively long-geared setup optimized for fuel efficiency rather than rapid acceleration. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel drive configuration were typical for European sedans of this size and class at the time.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.3 D CAT Omega A offered a distinctly unhurried driving experience. Acceleration was slow, with a 0-60 mph time of around 19.5 seconds. The focus was firmly on fuel economy and relaxed cruising. The long gearing of the five-speed manual transmission meant that the engine rarely revved beyond 3500 rpm during normal driving. Compared to the more powerful gasoline-powered Omega variants, such as the 2.0 or 2.6-liter models, the diesel lacked responsiveness. However, it provided a respectable amount of torque at low speeds, making it suitable for hauling passengers and luggage. The rear-wheel drive layout offered balanced handling, but the relatively soft suspension tuning prioritized comfort over sporty dynamics.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.3 D CAT typically represented the base trim level for the Omega A diesel range. Standard equipment included basic cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual windows and door locks. Power steering was usually standard, but air conditioning and central locking were often optional extras. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Optional extras could include upgraded audio systems, sunroofs, and alloy wheels, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles to some extent.
Chassis & Braking
The Omega A 2.3 D CAT featured a conventional chassis design with a spring strut front suspension and a wishbone rear suspension. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over uneven road surfaces. The relatively heavy weight of the vehicle, at 1355 kg (2987.26 lbs), contributed to its stable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Omega A 2.3 D CAT was generally well-received as a practical and economical family sedan. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, its slow acceleration and relatively basic equipment levels were often noted. Compared to the gasoline-powered Omega variants, the diesel offered significantly lower running costs but lacked performance. It competed directly with other large diesel sedans, such as the Ford Granada Diesel and Volkswagen Passat Diesel, offering a similar blend of practicality and economy.
Legacy
The Opel Omega A 2.3 D CAT powertrain, while not known for its performance, proved to be remarkably durable and reliable. Many examples remain on the road today, testament to the robust engineering of the 23YD engine. In the used car market, these Omegas are often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic European sedan with low running costs. While maintenance can be challenging due to the age of the vehicles, the availability of spare parts remains relatively good. The Omega A 2.3 D CAT represents a significant chapter in Opel’s history, embodying the brand’s commitment to providing practical and affordable transportation.
