Opel Omega B

Opel
Opel Omega (1994-1999)
Omega B
Production period:	1994-2003
Class :	upper middle class
Body versions :	Limousine , station wagon
Engines:	Petrol engines : 2.0–3.2 liters (85–160 kW) Diesel engines : 2.0–2.5 liters (74–110 kW)
Length:	4898 mm
Width:	1776 mm
Height:	1456-1549 mm
Wheelbase :	2730 mm
Empty weight :	1475-1733 kg
Previous model	Opel Omega A
successor	Opel Signum ; for Omega Caravan: Opel Vectra C Caravan

The Opel Omega B is a car of the upper middle class of Opel , which was produced from early 1994 until mid-2003. It came onto the market as the successor to the Omega A.

Model history

General

Rear view

Opel Omega Caravan (1994–1999)

The Omega B appeared on April 29, 1994 . The rounded shape of the car was reminiscent of the Aurora study presented by Cadillac in 1990 . The Omega B was equipped with an airbag system. The chassis has also been reinforced.

The previously installed four-cylinder engine with 2.0 l displacement and 85 kW (116 hp) continued to serve as the basic engine, plus a 16-valve variant with 100 kW (136 hp). The previous inline six-cylinder petrol engines were replaced by newly developed V6 engines. First there was the 2.5-liter with 125 kW (170 hp), then the 3.0-liter with 155 kW (211 hp) in the top model MV6 .

The first diesel was the 2.5-liter turbodiesel (in-line six-cylinder) of the M51-D25 type with 96 kW (131 hp) instead of the 105 kW of the BMW 325 / 525tds. Then there was a 2.0 l 16V direct injection diesel with 74 kW (101 hp). The injection pump in this engine is driven by a duplex timing chain, from there a single chain goes to the camshaft. Despite the 16 valves, it only has one camshaft which drives the valves via low-friction roller rocker arms.

The new V6 engines had light alloy cylinder heads with four valves per cylinder. In addition, there was the “Multiram System”, which can vary the length of the intake path in several stages depending on the engine speed, which ensures more torque, especially in the lower speed range. All the engines in the Omega were installed lengthways. The compact and short design of the V6 engines also made them suitable for transverse installation in vehicles with front-wheel drive. Accordingly, the 2.5-liter V6 was also offered in the Vectra and Calibra.

Facelift

In August 1999, the Omega received a major facelift, the modified version being internally known as the Omega B2. Both the front and the rear have been redesigned, and the interior has also been largely redesigned. Chrome strips were now largely omitted, but bumpers and side strips were painted in the same color as the car. There were new equipment lines, whereby the MV6 was omitted. The noblest variant was now called "Executive". This line contained almost everything that the surcharge list had to offer: leather upholstery, electrically adjustable seats, xenon lights, cruise control, radio with CD changer and telephone. With this equipment, almost only the sunroof and metallic paint were subject to a surcharge.

The revision also included a new base engine with 106 kW (144 hp) from a 2.2-liter displacement, and the two two-liter engines were omitted.

From autumn 2000, a so-called “Über-Omega” with a 5.7-liter V8 LS-1 with 228 kW (310 hp) was to be built again. However, it was withdrawn a few weeks before the planned market launch because transmission problems could not be resolved. The engine itself (engine code Y57XE) developed a maximum torque of 450 Nm. According to unofficial information, 32 series-ready Omega V8s were produced that were used as test cars and still exist at Opel today.

A 2.6-liter engine with 132 kW (179 hp), which replaced the 2.5 V6, and a 2.2-l diesel with 88 kW (120 hp) were also offered from autumn 2000.

For those who had waited in vain for a more powerfully powered Omega, in spring 2001 Opel added a 3.2-liter V6 with 160 kW (218 hp), which replaced the 3.0-liter and was only available with an automatic transmission (except official vehicles).

The first common rail diesel came in the summer of 2001 with a 2.5-liter in-line six-cylinder of the type M57- D25, also bought by BMW . The engine, which was throttled over the entire speed range by software, developed 110 kW (150 hp) and 300 Nm instead of the 120 kW (163 hp) and 350 Nm of the BMW 525d.

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  Opel Omega (1999-2003)

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  Rear view

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  Opel Omega Caravan (1999-2003)

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  inner space

End of production

At the end of June 2003, Opel stopped manufacturing the Omega B. This ended an era in the upper middle class for the brand, because the Omega was the last Opel of this size in the classic design with front engine and rear-wheel drive . The traditional design of the four-door notchback sedan was also abandoned due to the lack of prospects for success in this segment.

The Signum was supposed to replace the Omega, but although it was certified to offer more value and comfort at lower prices, it was perceived as a new type of vehicle because of its platform size and the estate-like silhouette, among other things.

As a station wagon, the Omega was replaced by the Vectra C Caravan, which, like the Signum, had a wheelbase that was 13 cm larger than the Vectra sedan, which positioned both models above it. The KBA assigns both the Signum and the Vectra Caravan to the middle class.

With the model study Insignia in autumn 2003, Opel showed a further solution for the successor to the Omega, but this was rejected again.

Since November 2008, the name Insignia has been used for the successor to the mid-range model Vectra, which has now also approximated the size of the Omega as a sedan.

Variants abroad

In the UK the car was sold as the Vauxhall Carlton . The Vauxhalls also rolled off the assembly line in Rüsselsheim.

The Omega was offered on the American market between summer 1996 and autumn 2001 as the Cadillac Catera . Since it was also built in Rüsselsheim, it should benefit from the good reputation of "Made in Germany". Externally, the Cadillac differed from the Opel mainly by a different radiator grille, modified bumpers, modified taillights and a different center console insert with an integrated cassette radio and climate control via buttons or button switches. Technically, they were practically identical. In the Catera, only the 3.0- or later the 3.2-liter V6 was used.

In Australia (under the brand name Holden ) the Omega was built in a significantly modified form with V6 and V8 engines until summer 2006. There it was not called Omega, but Holden Commodore , Berlina or Calais , depending on the equipment .

In addition to sedans and station wagons , other body variants were also offered: as a sedan with an extended wheelbase (Statesman / Caprice), as an all-wheel-drive off-road station wagon (Adventra), as a two- and four-door pickup (Ute / Crewman) and as a two-door Coupé Monaro . The Monaro was sold in a slightly modified form in America as the Pontiac GTO and in England under the name Vauxhall Monaro. The coupe was only available with a V8 engine. In 2006 the Holden models were replaced by new developments on the GM Zeta platform .

Engines

Petrol engines

model	construction time	Engine identification	cylinder	Displacement	Power at 1 / min	Torque at 1 / min	Top speed in km / h (sedan / station wagon)	Acceleration 0–100 km / h in s	Consumption in l / 100 km
2.0i 8V	01 / 1994-08 / 1999	X20SE (L96)	R4-OHC	1998 cc	85 kW (116 hp) at 5400	178 Nm at 2800	195/187	13.0-14.0	8.9-9.2
2.0i 16V	01 / 1994-08 / 1999	X20XEV (L34)	R4-DOHC	1998 cc	100 kW (136 hp) at 5600	185 Nm at 4000	210/202	11.0-11.5	8.5-8.7
2.2i 16V	08 / 1999-06 / 2003	Y22XE (LA9) / Z22XE (LA9 / LU5)	R4-DOHC	2198 cc	106 kW (144 PS) at 5400	205 Nm at 4000	210/202	10.5-11.0	9.4-9.6
2.5i 24V	01 / 1994-09 / 2000	X25XE (L80)	V6-DOHC	2498 cc	125 kW (170 hp) at 6000	227 Nm at 3200	228/220	9.5-10.0	9.1-10.4
2.6i 24V	10 / 2000-06 / 2003	Y26SE (LY9)	V6-DOHC	2597 cc	132 kW (179 hp) at 6000	240 Nm at 3400	229/221	9.5-10.0	10.6-10.7
3.0i 24V (MV6)	04 / 1994-02 / 2001	X30XE (L81)	V6-DOHC	2962 cc	155 kW (211 hp) at 6200	270 Nm at 3400	240/235	8.5-9.3	9.6-10.4
3.2i 24V	02 / 2001-06 / 2003	Y32SE (LA3)	V6-DOHC	3175 cc	160 kW (218 hp) at 6000	290 Nm at 3400	240/232	9.0-9.5	11.9
5.7i 16V (V8)	not mass-produced	Y57XE (LS1)	V8-OHV	5665 cc	228 kW (310 hp) at 5600	450 Nm at 4400	250 (regulated)	6.9	k. A.

Diesel engines

model	construction time	Engine identification	cylinder	Displacement	Power at 1 / min	Torque at 1 / min	Top speed in km / h (sedan / station wagon)	Acceleration 0–100 km / h in s	Consumption in l / 100 km
2.0 DTI 16V	09 / 1997-09 / 2000	X20DTH (LD1)	4th	1995 cc	74 kW (101 hp) at 4300	205 Nm at 1750	186/180	15.0-16.0	6.9-7.2
2.2 DTI 16V	10 / 2000-06 / 2003	Y22DTH (LL9)	4th	2172 cc	88 kW (120 PS) at 4000	280 Nm at 1600	195/190	12.5-13.0	7.1-7.3
2.5 TD	04 / 1994-08 / 2001	U25DT / X25DT (L93) or M51D25	6th	2497 cc	96 kW (131 PS) at 4500	250 Nm at 2200	200/195	12.0-12.5	7.4-7.7
2.5 DTI	06 / 2001-06 / 2003	Y25DT (L14) or M57D25	6th	2497 cc	110 kW (150 PS) at 4000	300 Nm at 1750	208/200	10.5-11.0	7.6-7.8

More detailed model history

Model year 1995

In the fall of 1994, the corrosion protection was improved and the engine hood was raised in the rear area to reduce wiper flutter. The air conditioning system also received an evaporator with an internal coating, the control of the sunroof was improved and the holder for floor mats in the interior was modified.

The gears also saw major changes. In the large AR 35 automatic transmission (for the X30XE), the rear axle ratio was set from 1: 3.9 to 1: 3.7. The AR 25 transmission received a larger converter and the converter lock-up clutch was changed for vehicles with the 2.5 TD engine. The manual transmissions received vibration dampers.

Model year 1996

From autumn 1995 new colors were offered for the paintwork, the electronically controlled air conditioning with sun sensor and a new generation of radio. The central locking and the anti-theft alarm system were now controlled by radio remote control instead of infrared as before. The variable wiper interval was adjustable using a knurled wheel in the wiper lever. The engine compartment noise insulation, the front seat back adjusters, the radio interference suppression of the control units for the automatic transmission and the heating output (via additional pump) have been improved.

From now on, torsion spring door brakes were used on the rear doors. Other changes included the hybrid generator airbag system, the safety locks, the cargo area cover of the caravan and the assembly of the rear axle body.

In addition, a two-part aluminum engine oil pan has been introduced for the X20XEV engine and the gear lever has been shortened by 25 mm on all models.

Model year 1997

navigation system

Steering wheel height adjustment, CD changer and steering wheel remote control have been available as special equipment for the Omega since summer 1996. Side airbags and belt tensioners became standard equipment.

The center console received fine wood veneer, there was now a five-speed fan and traction control with brake intervention was introduced. Other changes included a change of material for fuel hoses and better sealing of the exhaust system.

From February 1997 a navigation system could be ordered.

Model year 1998

Beginning in autumn 1997, the dashboard received a continuous ventilation slot for the windshield. The now fully upholstered headrests on the window seats could be folded forward and the rear center headrest sunk into the caravan. The interior rearview mirror has been enlarged and the hinges and locks on the center armrest cover have been improved. New versions have been introduced: the sensor for level control , the anti-lock braking system 5.3 or 5.3 / TC, the instrument cluster with indicator lights for fog lights and rear lights and the control unit for the cruise control.

In addition, clear-glass ellipsoid headlights were now available as standard and xenon light as an option. A new radio system was available and the OnStar communication service was introduced. The on-board clock could now set itself via the RDS signal. The large brake system was now always installed in all vehicles.

The 2.0-16V engine (X20XEV) received balance shafts and modifications to the intake system to improve running smoothness and the noise level. On the 3.0 l 24V engine (X30XE), the cylinder head, the intake manifold and the engine control unit were changed and the back pressure through the rear silencer was reduced to increase performance and reduce noise. In addition, all automatic transmissions received an electromechanical selector lever lock.

From December 1997 the small 2.0-liter diesel with 74 kW could be purchased. Since February 1998, all models have been equipped with a third brake light, which is equipped with LEDs in the sedan and normal light bulbs in the caravan. In addition, the switch for the traction control via the radio has been relocated and the immobilizer control unit has been secured against being removed from the ignition lock.

Model year 1999

The Opel-Fix child seat safety system could now be ordered. The navigation system now came directly from Opel and was standard in the Omega MV6 . Again a new and improved radio system was offered and the cargo area cover on the caravan was changed. The key got a modified housing (rectangular rubber keys). All available petrol engines now used four-valve technology and the air conditioning system became standard.

The rear axle ratio of the 2.5 l V6 engine (X25XE) has been shortened and the timing belt geometry and material of all V6s have been changed to minimize noise. There were also changes in the oil circulation system.

From February 1999 an improved catalytic converter was installed. The Edition 100 special model was also offered from this point in time .

Model year 2000

As described, a revised version of the Omega was released in August 1999. As part of the facelift, the front section was provided with a V-shaped contoured bonnet, integrated radiator grille and clear glass headlights adapted to the new design. The rear lights of the caravan model, the exterior mirrors (electrically foldable) and the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned. The body rigidity could be increased by using thicker sheet metal in many places. A new generation of hybrid airbags was installed.

Other safety-related changes were the introduction of active headrests and a quick-power brake booster. The previous information displays for radio and on-board computer have been replaced by graphic displays - either monochrome or, in conjunction with a navigation telephone radio, colored. From now on, all radios offered were designed in double DIN size. Other changes in the interior concerned the seat upholstery variants, fold-out pockets in the door panels and a completely fold-up armrest. The two-zone automatic air conditioning became standard.

The 2.0 l 16V engine (X20XEV) was omitted and was replaced by a 2.2 l 16V engine. This also received an improved electronic immobilizer. Opel has now granted a ten-year guarantee against rust perforation.

Model year 2001

All 6-cylinder versions were given rear brakes with internally ventilated 286 × 20 mm discs. An oil cooler for the transmission oil of the automatic models was introduced, and the heat shield for these models was also enlarged. A heat-reflecting windshield with seven metal vapor layers was installed. Silicate-free engine coolant was used as a lifetime filling. The side indicators have now turned white, the rear cigarette lighter has been replaced by a 12-volt socket and the engine control unit is OBD-2 compatible.

In October 2000 the 2.5 V6 engine (X25XE) was exchanged for the 2.6 V6 (Y26SE) and the 2.0 l diesel (X20DTH) for a 2.2 l diesel (Y22DTH). The 2.2 DTI with the R 30 manual transmission received a self-adjusting clutch. In addition, the power steering was improved, which now offered greater support at idle speed.

From February 2001, the 3.2 liter V6 engine (Y32SE) replaced the previous 3.0 V6 (X30XE).

Model year 2002

From July 2001, the 2.5-liter diesel engine (Y25DT) purchased by BMW was installed and declared as model year 2002. The 2.5 DTI was also available in connection with a five-stage automatic (GM 5L40-E). The Audio-Vision DVD system could be ordered as an optional extra.

From December 2001 all six-cylinder models were delivered with ESP at no extra charge .

2003 model year

On June 24, 2003, a silver Omega B 3.2 V6 was the last vehicle in the model series to roll off the production line in Rüsselsheim. 797,011 copies were made in nine years.

Web links

Commons : Opel Omega B  - Collection of pictures, videos and audio files

• Information page Omega B from "Senatorman" Henrik Karcher

Individual evidence

1. ↑ ^{a b} Eckhart Bartels, Rainer Manthey: Opel: Vehicle Chronicle Volume 3: 1991–2012. Podszun, Brilon 2013, ISBN 978-3861336662 , pp. 33, 34, 45.
2. ↑ ^{a b} rp-online.de
3. ↑ ^{a b} batten-company.com ( Memento of the original from September 23, 2015 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. 
4. ↑ auto-motor-und-sport.de
5. ↑ Number of cars on January 1, 2015
6. ↑ ^{a b c d} autodaten.net ( Memento of the original from February 23, 2016 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. 
7. ↑ ^{a b c d e} Heinz-Ewo von Brand, Karlheinz Breitwieser, Ekkehard Giebel, Eckhard Zickwolff: The engines in the new Opel Omega . In: MTZ Motortechnische Zeitschrift . No. 4 , April 1994, ISSN  0024-8525 , pp. 198-206 .
8. ↑ OPEL: Manual Opel Omega B Facelift.  
9. ↑ ^{a b} Driving report: Opel Omega V8
10. ↑ End of production for the Omega