1985-1987 Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (156 Hp) Automatic

The Vauxhall Royale, specifically the 3.0 E V6 (156 Hp) Automatic variant produced between 1985 and 1987, represents a significant chapter in the history of British executive automobiles. As a rebadged version of the Opel Senator A, a flagship model from General Motors’ German subsidiary, the Royale offered UK buyers a blend of sophisticated European engineering and traditional British branding. Positioned in the upper echelon of the market, it aimed to compete with established luxury saloons of its era, providing a comfortable, powerful, and well-appointed experience for discerning drivers. The Royale’s existence underscored Vauxhall’s strategy to offer a comprehensive lineup, from compact family cars to large executive cruisers, leveraging GM’s international platforms to deliver competitive products in the UK market. This particular generation, while not sold under the Vauxhall badge in the United States, holds a notable place in European automotive heritage as a testament to 1980s engineering and design philosophies for a premium sedan.

Engine and Performance: The Vauxhall Royale’s Heartbeat

At the core of the 1985-1987 Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 Automatic was a robust and smooth 3.0-liter V6 engine, a powertrain designed for effortless cruising and refined performance. This naturally aspirated internal combustion engine, with a displacement of 2969 cubic centimeters (181.18 cu. in.), delivered a respectable 156 horsepower at 5600 revolutions per minute. Its power output translated to a power-per-liter figure of 52.5 Hp/l, a competitive number for a non-turbocharged engine of its vintage. More importantly for an executive sedan, the engine produced a healthy 166.69 lb.-ft. of torque at 4200 rpm, ensuring strong mid-range acceleration and flexible driving characteristics, particularly when paired with its 4-speed automatic transmission.

The engine’s configuration was a classic V-engine layout with six cylinders, positioned longitudinally at the front of the vehicle. It featured a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder and utilized a multi-port manifold injection system for precise fuel delivery. A compression ratio of 8.5:1 balanced performance with the fuel quality standards of the mid-1980s. This powertrain architecture was well-regarded for its durability and smooth operation, contributing significantly to the Royale’s executive appeal. Power was channeled to the rear wheels, adhering to the traditional layout favored by performance and luxury vehicles of the period, offering predictable handling and a distinct driving feel. With a maximum speed of 118.68 mph, the Royale was capable of maintaining comfortable speeds on European motorways, embodying its role as a long-distance cruiser. The car’s weight-to-power ratio stood at 8.8 kg/Hp (113.9 Hp/tonne), while the weight-to-torque ratio was 6.1 kg/Nm (165 Nm/tonne), indicating a balanced approach to performance that prioritized smooth delivery over outright sportiness. This combination of engine power, torque, and drivetrain configuration made the Vauxhall Royale a capable and refined performer for its segment and era.

Design and Features: The Enduring Appeal of the Vauxhall Royale

The Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 was a quintessential executive sedan of the mid-1980s, characterized by its stately proportions and understated elegance. Its body type was a classic 4-door sedan, designed to comfortably accommodate five occupants, emphasizing space and comfort. With an overall length of 192.01 inches, a width of 68.03 inches, and a height of 53.78 inches, the Royale commanded a significant road presence. The generous 105.63-inch wheelbase contributed directly to the car’s stable ride and expansive interior volume, offering ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, a crucial attribute for its target market.

From a design perspective, the Royale showcased the clean, functional lines prevalent in European automotive design of the time. While not overtly flashy, its aesthetic projected an image of solidity and quality. The relatively low ride height of 5.98 inches, combined with a minimum turning circle of 32.94 feet, suggested a vehicle engineered for confident handling and maneuverability despite its size. The kerb weight of 3020.33 lbs. (1370 kg) highlighted its substantial construction, contributing to a sense of security and roadholding. The vehicle’s maximum permissible weight was 4188.78 lbs. (1900 kg), allowing for a maximum load of 1168.45 lbs. (530 kg) for passengers and luggage. The trunk space of 13.91 cubic feet (394 liters) was adequate for family trips or executive travel, reinforcing its practicality.

Underneath its classic exterior, the Royale featured an advanced suspension system for its time, aimed at providing a comfortable yet composed ride. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, offering precise steering and good body control. The rear suspension also featured an independent coil spring setup, further enhancing ride comfort by allowing each wheel to react independently to road imperfections. Braking performance was handled by ventilated disc brakes at the front and disc brakes at the rear, providing reliable stopping power for a vehicle of its weight and performance capabilities. While modern safety features like airbags or advanced driver-assistance systems were still decades away, the Royale’s robust construction and thoughtful chassis design provided a level of passive safety and dynamic stability that was competitive for its era. The enduring appeal of the Vauxhall Royale lies in its blend of classic executive styling, refined powertrain, and comfortable, capable engineering, making it a cherished classic among enthusiasts today.

Technical Specifications: Vauxhall Royale 3.0 E V6 (156 Hp) Automatic