Opel Senator A
The refined flagship that brought Bosch fuel injection and straight-six smoothness to Opel's executive range.
- Power
- 180 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.5 s
- Top speed
- 130 mph
- Est. value
- $6k–$15k
About the Opel Senator A
The Opel Senator A was launched in 1978 as a successor to the Diplomat, aimed squarely at competing with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz W123. The 3.0 E trim represented the top of the range, featuring the Bosch L-Jetronic fuel-injected cam-in-head engine known for its durability and linear power delivery. It shared its chassis and many components with the Monza coupé, offering a sophisticated independent rear suspension setup that was advanced for its time. While often overlooked in favour of its premium German rivals, the Senator is now appreciated for its understated design and high levels of standard equipment.
Opel Senator A specs
The Opel Senator A produces 180 bhp (134 kW) and 248 Nm (183 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.5 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).
| Make | Opel |
|---|---|
| Model | Senator |
| Generation | A |
| Trim | 3.0 E |
| Years | 1978–1986 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Engine | 3.0-litre straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,969 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 180 bhp (134 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 248 Nm (183 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.5 s |
| Top speed | 130 mph (210 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,440 kg (3,175 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 125 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Opel Senator A worth?
A typical Opel Senator A is estimated to be worth $6,000 – $15,000 (about £4,500 – £11,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Opel Senator A rarity in CarSpot
The Opel Senator A is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 16 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Opel Senator A fun facts
- The Senator A1 was sold in the UK as the Vauxhall Royale, while the facelifted A2 version eventually adopted the Senator nameplate in the British market.
- The 3.0-litre engine used a 'Cam-In-Head' (CIH) design, a unique Opel architecture where the camshaft was located in the cylinder head but operated the valves via short rocker arms.
- Four-wheel disc brakes were standard on the 3.0 E, providing significantly better stopping power than many contemporary executive saloons.
