The Vauxhall 28 H is a 2,792 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and a downdraft carburettor. In standard form it delivered 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) and torque figures between 210–225 Nm, offering smooth, refined power delivery suited to executive applications.
Fitted to models such as the Senator B and early Omega A, the 28 H was engineered for quiet, torqu…
Production years 1986–1992 meet Euro 1 standards; 1993 models may have transitional Euro 2 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/CU/9345).
The Vauxhall 28 H is a 2,792 cc inline‑six petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1986–1993). It combines a single overhead camshaft with a downdraft carburettor to deliver smooth power and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances performance with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,792 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) @ 5,000–5,400 rpm | |
Torque | 210–225 Nm @ 3,000–3,400 rpm | |
Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburettor (Zenith/Stromberg) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1986–1992); transitional Euro 2 in 1993 | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil (API SF/CC) | |
Dry weight | 170 kg |
The Vauxhall 28 H was used across Vauxhall's B‑Car and early Omega platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Senator B and revised cooling ducts in the Omega A—and from 1990 the facelifted Senator adopted updated carburettor jets and cam profiles, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 28 H's primary reliability risk is camshaft and tappet wear, with elevated incidence in high‑rpm or neglected‑maintenance use. Vauxhall internal reports from 1991 noted cam failures in over 10% of engines exceeding 100,000 km without proper oil changes, while UK DVSA historical data links poor valve adjustment to premature top‑end noise. Frequent short trips and use of incorrect oil viscosity increase wear, making regular clearance checks and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1986–1993) and UK DVSA historical failure statistics (1990–1998). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The 28 H is mechanically simple and smooth-running if maintained properly. Early models (1986–1989) are prone to cam wear without regular oil changes. Later revisions improved durability. Using correct SAE 20W‑50 oil and checking valve clearances every 10,000 km greatly extends engine life.
Top issues include camshaft/tappet wear, carburettor flooding or lean running, rocker cover oil leaks, and timing chain stretch. These are well-documented in Vauxhall service bulletins M‑28‑89 and workshop manuals from the late 1980s–early 1990s.
The 28 H powered the Senator B (1986–1993) and Omega A (1986–1993) in 2.8 L trim. It was never licensed to other manufacturers and is exclusive to Vauxhall’s B‑Car and Omega platform derivatives.
Modest gains are possible. Upgrading to a twin-choke carburettor, performance camshaft, and free-flow exhaust can yield +10–15 kW. However, the bottom end is not designed for high stress—aggressive tuning risks bearing wear. Most owners retain stock tune for reliability.
Typical consumption is ~13.0 L/100km (city) and ~8.5 L/100km (highway), or about 22–27 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary with carburettor condition and driving style, but expect 21–28 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a well-maintained engine.
No. The 28 H is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic damage. However, chain replacement is still advised to avoid ignition timing issues.
Vauxhall specifies SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil meeting API SF/CC. Modern synthetic oils may reduce oil pressure due to tighter tolerances in older pumps. Change oil every 5,000–7,500 km to protect the cam and tappets.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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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.
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