The Opel Omega A 2.6i CAT Automatic, produced between July 1990 and 1993, represented a significant offering in Opel’s flagship sedan range. Positioned as a comfortable and well-equipped grand tourer, this variant utilized a 2.6-liter inline-six engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. It occupied a middle ground within the Omega A lineup, offering a balance between performance and convenience, appealing to buyers who prioritized a smooth driving experience over outright sportiness. The Omega A itself was a replacement for the Opel Rekord, aiming to compete with established executive cars like the Ford Granada and BMW 5 Series, primarily in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Omega |
| Generation | Omega A |
| Type (Engine) | 2.6i CAT (150 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 1990 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg, 19.5 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 106 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 3600 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | C26NE |
| Engine displacement | 2594 cm3 (158.3 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.8 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69.8 mm (2.75 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.5 l (11.1 US qt | 9.24 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1415 kg (3119.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 820 l (28.96 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 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 (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Omega A 2.6i CAT Automatic was the C26NE engine, a 2.6-liter (2594 cc) inline-six cylinder powerplant. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. It utilized Bosch Motronic fuel injection, a multi-port system that delivered fuel directly to each intake port, optimizing combustion efficiency. The ‘CAT’ designation indicated the presence of a catalytic converter, a feature increasingly common in the early 1990s to meet tightening emissions regulations. The engine produced 150 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing smooth shifts, wasn’t known for its particularly quick response or fuel efficiency compared to manual options. It was a conventional hydraulic automatic, lacking the electronic controls found in later transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.6i Automatic Omega A offered a relaxed and comfortable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.3 seconds, and top speed was rated at 149 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provided adequate power for highway cruising and overtaking. The automatic transmission, however, did detract from the overall performance. Gear changes were not particularly sharp, and the transmission tended to hunt for gears on inclines. Compared to the more powerful 3.0-liter inline-six or the sportier V6 variants, the 2.6i Automatic felt noticeably slower. However, it offered a more refined and less demanding driving experience than the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.6i CAT Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included central locking, electric windows, power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Interior upholstery was usually cloth, although leather was available as an option. Dashboard design was functional and straightforward, typical of German engineering of the period. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and climate control. The trim level often dictated the quality of the interior materials and the availability of certain features.
Chassis & Braking
The Omega A featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a semi-trailing arm rear suspension. The 2.6i Automatic model typically used ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride over most road surfaces. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering was rack and pinion, providing reasonably precise control, although it lacked the feel of more modern steering systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Omega A 2.6i CAT Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a comfortable and practical executive car. However, it wasn’t considered a particularly exciting or dynamic vehicle. Fuel economy was average for the time, around 24 mpg combined. Compared to the 2.0-liter models, the 2.6i offered significantly more power and refinement. However, the 3.0-liter and V6 variants provided superior performance. Reliability was generally good, although the automatic transmission could be prone to issues if not properly maintained. The Omega A faced competition from the Ford Granada, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Legacy
The Opel Omega A 2.6i CAT Automatic, while not the most sought-after variant, remains a reasonably reliable and affordable classic car. The C26NE engine is known for its durability, and parts availability is still relatively good. However, finding well-maintained examples can be challenging. Today, these Omegas are appreciated by enthusiasts for their comfortable ride, spacious interior, and classic styling. The automatic transmission, while not a performance enhancer, provides a convenient and relaxed driving experience, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a comfortable and reliable classic grand tourer.
