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 This model replaced the outdated Opel Rekord and became the brand's flagship, offering comfort, spaciousness, and cutting-edge technology for its time.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