The Opel Omega A was the first generation of Opel's legendary full-size sedan and station wagon, produced from 1986 to 1994. This model replaced the outdated Opel Rekord and became the brand's flagship, offering comfort, spaciousness, and cutting-edge technology for its time.
Alternative Names in Other Countries
Opel used different names for this model in various markets:
- Vauxhall Carlton - In the UK (under the Vauxhall brand)
- Chevrolet Omega - In Brazil (this name was later used for the Omega B too)
- Holden Commodore - In Australia and New Zealand (though significantly modified)
Body Styles
The Omega A was available in three main versions:
- 4-door sedan - A classic executive car with generous interior space
- 5-door station wagon (Caravan) - A practical family version
- 2-door coupe - A rare variant produced only in Brazil as the Chevrolet Omega Suprema
Tools Needed for Removal
- Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
- Socket set
- Ratchet or extension bar
- Trim removal tool for clips
Front Bumper Removal
- Open and secure the hood
- Remove clips from the underside
- In the wheel arches, release clips securing the fender liners (often replaced with screws over time)
- From the engine bay, unscrew two bolts attaching the bumper reinforcements to the frame rails
- Alternatively, you can remove the nuts attaching reinforcements to the bumper (more difficult)
- Release sides from fender clips and remove the bumper forward with assistance
- The bumper is now off - reinstallation is the reverse process
Rear Bumper Removal
- Remove license plate light and disconnect its connector
- In rear wheel wells, remove two screws per side
- Open the trunk/tailgate
- Lift trunk floor covering and remove rear panel trim
- Under trim, remove nuts securing bumper reinforcements to rear panel
- Release sides from fender clips
- Remove bumper backward with assistance
Technical Specifications and Engines
The Omega A offered:
- Gasoline engines: From a modest 1.8L (90 hp) to a powerful 3.0L (177 hp in the top 3000 24V 6-cylinder)
- Diesel: Efficient 2.3L turbodiesels (100-120 hp)
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive only (like contemporary BMWs)
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Interesting Facts
- Police favorite: In Germany, the Omega A (especially the 3000 24V) became popular with police for its 230 km/h top speed
- Rally version: The Opel Omega Evolution 500 rally car had a 2.4L turbo (380 hp)
- TV star: The Vauxhall Carlton appeared in UK's "Only Fools and Horses"
- Brazilian special: Some models got a 4.1L Chevrolet V6!
Legacy
The Omega A is remembered as a reliable, solid, and dynamic car. It was replaced by the Omega B in 1993, but the original set the standard.
Final note: Whether you see an Opel Omega A, Vauxhall Carlton or Chevrolet Omega - it's the same German engineering with an international identity!