Vauxhall Carlton Saloon 2.6i Diplomat Cat 4d Auto (1992/K) Owner Review
-
Economy
Value
Watch out for examples smeared in dashboard lard by backstreet car dealers.
Costs
Aftermarket items cheap, genuine items very dear at times.
-
On the road
Driving
Not as torquey as you might expect.
Performance
Not effortless like 2.8 Granada but fast if you don't mind hearing the engine.
-
Living with it
Reliability
Idle problem and Lambda sensor can cause surging under light throttle loads. Fit genuine GM only.
Image
Don't drive through town centres at night as everyone thinks their taxi has arrived.
Comfort
Outstanding motorway cruiser.
-
Security and Service
Security
No problems although the driver's lock is a bit tired.
Service
The only problem I've had is the dealers who generally seem irritated by your custom.
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Fine. Thirsty when cold and cast iron block takes a lot of warming up.
Other
Air conditioning. Expect this to be your major expense as most will need converting to refirdgerant r134a. German Carltons came with R134a in 1993. This will lead to pump seal failure (£200 for new seals). Buy brass condensor if this need replacing.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes