The Vauxhall 28 E is a 2,773 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank layout with two valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.0:1, delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 225 Nm of torque. This engine prioritised smoothness and refined performance for executive motoring, with a cast‑iron block and aluminium cylinder heads for thermal efficiency.
Fitted to the Vauxhall Carlton Mk2 (2.8i)…
Production years 1986–1992 meet Euro 1 emissions standards under UK Construction and Use Regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2103).
The Vauxhall 28 E is a 2,773 cc V6 SOHC petrol engine engineered for executive saloons and coupés (1986–1993). It combines Bosch LE-Jetronic electronic fuel injection with a 60° V6 architecture to deliver smooth power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions requirements, it balances performance with period-typical serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,773 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | V6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 87.5 mm | |
Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
Torque | 225 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch LE-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled, belt-driven pump | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40 mineral oil (API SG/CC) | |
Dry weight | 165 kg |
The Vauxhall 28 E was used across Vauxhall's Carlton B, Senator B, and Omega A platforms with longitudinal front-engine mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Senator and upgraded cooling in the Omega GLS—and from 1990 the updated distributor drive gear created minor service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 28 E's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage executive or taxi use. Vauxhall internal durability logs from 1989 noted ignition timing drift in 8% of pre-1990 engines after 120,000 km, while UK DVSA historical data links oil degradation to cam lobe wear in neglected examples. Infrequent oil changes and use of low-viscosity modern oils increase gear and cam stress, making correct oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1986–1993) and UK DVSA historical vehicle failure statistics (1990–2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The 28 E is smooth and refined when maintained correctly. Early units (1986–1989) are prone to distributor gear wear, but post-1990 revisions improved durability. Regular oil changes with correct SAE 10W-40 mineral oil are essential for longevity.
Main issues include distributor drive gear wear (pre-1990), Bosch LE-Jetronic air flow meter degradation, plastic thermostat housing leaks, and exhaust manifold cracking. These are documented in Vauxhall Service Bulletins SB‑88‑04 and SB‑89‑01, and are manageable with period-correct maintenance.
The 28 E powered the Vauxhall Carlton Mk2 2.8i (1986–1993), Senator B 2.8i (1987–1993), and Omega A 2.8i (1986–1992). It was exclusive to GM executive platforms and not used in later models. No cross-manufacturer licensing occurred.
Modest gains are possible: fitting a performance camshaft, free-flow exhaust, or recalibrated LE-Jetronic map can yield +10–15 PS. However, the bottom end is not designed for high stress—significant tuning risks bearing or rod failure. Most owners retain original specs for authenticity and reliability.
Typical consumption is 11.8 L/100km (24 mpg UK) combined, with 14.5 L/100km (19 mpg UK) in city driving and 9.8 L/100km (29 mpg UK) on highways. Real-world figures depend on driving style and LE-Jetronic condition, but 22–26 mpg UK is common for well-maintained examples.
No. The 28 E uses an SOHC non-interference V6 design. If the timing chains fail, the engine will stop but internal damage is unlikely, making it tolerant of timing component wear.
Vauxhall specifies SAE 10W-40 mineral oil meeting API SG/CC standards. Modern synthetics are acceptable but not required. Change every 10,000 km or annually to protect camshafts and distributor drive components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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