The Vauxhall Omega B 2.0i Automatic, produced between 1994 and 1998, represents a significant iteration in Vauxhall’s flagship executive car lineage. As a rear-wheel-drive sedan, the Omega B aimed to provide a comfortable and capable driving experience, competing with vehicles like the Ford Granada and, later, the BMW 5 Series. While not officially sold in the United States, the Omega B was a popular choice in the United Kingdom and mainland Europe, known for its spacious interior, refined ride, and robust engineering. This model, specifically the 2.0i variant with an automatic transmission, offered a balance between performance and fuel economy for the discerning driver.
Vauxhall Omega B: An Overview
The Omega B was the second generation of the Omega, succeeding the Omega A. It marked a substantial leap forward in terms of design, technology, and overall refinement. The B-series Omega was built on a new platform, offering improved handling and a more modern aesthetic. The 2.0i model, powered by a naturally aspirated inline-four engine, served as the entry point to the Omega B range, appealing to buyers who prioritized comfort and practicality over outright performance. It was a common sight on European roads, favored by families and company car drivers alike.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Omega B 2.0i is a 1,998 cc (121.93 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine, designated as the 20SE or X20SE. This engine produces 116 horsepower (Hp) at 5,400 rpm and 205 Newton-meters (151.2 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1,650 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the engine provides adequate performance for comfortable cruising and everyday driving. The power-to-weight ratio of 12.5 kg/Hp (80.3 Hp/tonne) reflects the car’s substantial weight. Power per liter is rated at 58.1 Hp/l. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a naturally aspirated configuration, contributing to its smooth operation and reasonable fuel consumption. The rear-wheel-drive layout, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, delivers a traditional driving experience, prioritizing stability and control. The Omega B 2.0i achieves a maximum speed of 186 km/h (115.58 mph).
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Omega B is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its body lines are smooth and aerodynamic, contributing to a drag coefficient of 0.29. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The trunk (boot) provides a generous 530 liters (18.72 cu. ft.) of storage space. Key features of the Omega B 2.0i include an independent McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride. Safety features, for the time, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The car’s dimensions are substantial, measuring 4,787 mm (188.46 in.) in length, 1,786 mm (70.31 in.) in width, and 1,455 mm (57.28 in.) in height. The wheelbase is 2,730 mm (107.48 in.). The Omega B was designed to be a practical and comfortable family car, offering a refined driving experience and a high level of equipment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Omega |
| Generation | Omega B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (116 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1998 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 1650 rpm (151.2 lb.-ft. @ 1650 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 20SE, X20SE |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1445-1489 kg (3185.68 – 3282.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 466-510 kg (1027.35 – 1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4787 mm (188.46 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1140 mm (44.88 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
The Vauxhall Omega B 2.0i Automatic, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of comfort, practicality, and refinement for its time. Its rear-wheel-drive layout and spacious interior made it a popular choice for families and long-distance drivers in Europe.
