The Vauxhall 28 HC is a 2,792 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and a downdraft carburettor. Output ranges from 110–125 kW (150–170 PS) with torque between 220–240 Nm, delivering smooth linear power and refined cruising character typical of larger CIH (Cam In Head) inline‑six layouts.
Fitted to executive models such as the Senator B and Omega A, the 28 HC…
All production years (1987–1993) meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5685).
The Vauxhall 28 HC is a 2,792 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1987–1993). It combines a single overhead camshaft with a downdraft carburettor to deliver smooth low-to-mid range torque and refined daily drivability. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances mechanical simplicity with regulatory compliance through precise carburetion and catalytic aftertreatment.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,792 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 87.0 mm | |
Power output | 110–125 kW (150–170 PS) | |
Torque | 220–240 Nm @ 3,200–3,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Single-barrel downdraft carburettor (Weber or Zenith) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (mineral or semi‑synthetic) | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Vauxhall 28 HC was used across Vauxhall's Senator B and Omega A platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Senator and modified intake manifolds in the Omega—and from 1990 the updated camshaft design improved durability, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 28 HC's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear in pre‑1990 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent motorway cruising or hill climbing. Vauxhall internal service data from 1992 noted valve train noise in ~15% of early 28 HC engines before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records link misfires and compression loss to this wear pattern. Extended oil change intervals and poor-quality oil accelerate degradation, making cam integrity and oil maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1987–1993) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The 28 HC is mechanically robust and can exceed 180,000 km with proper care. Early units (pre-1990) are prone to camshaft lobe wear under high-RPM use, but later versions are more durable. Regular oil changes, valve adjustments, and carburettor servicing are essential for longevity.
Common issues include camshaft lobe wear (early builds), carburettor float leaks, timing chain stretch, and valve clearance drift. These are documented in Vauxhall Engineering Bulletins EB‑91‑02 and service manuals from the late 1980s–90s.
The 28 HC powered the Senator B and Omega A from 1987 to 1993, always as the 2.8 L petrol variant. It was never licensed to other manufacturers. All applications used longitudinal rear-wheel-drive mounting.
Modest gains are possible via carburettor upgrades (e.g., twin-choke Weber), performance exhaust, and higher-compression cylinder heads. Realistic output is ~140 kW with careful tuning. Major modifications are rarely cost-effective due to the bottom-end design limitations.
Typical consumption is ~12.5 L/100km (city) and ~8.2 L/100km (highway), or about 23–29 mpg UK combined. Well-maintained examples achieve 22–31 mpg (UK) on mixed routes, depending on driving style and carburettor condition.
No. The 28 HC is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain fails, the pistons will not contact the valves, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, the engine will stop running and require timing system repair.
Vauxhall specifies SAE 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil. Full synthetic is acceptable but not required. Change every 10,000 km or annually. Proper oil maintains cam, chain, and tappet life.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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