A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
3.8/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.5
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
2.8
Practicality
4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
The Vauxhall Senator was a full size executive saloon that represented the British brand’s flagship offering during its production years. This spacious four door model positioned itself as an affordable alternative to premium German executives, offering generous interior space and a comfortable ride quality. The Senator appealed to business users and families who needed a large, practical car without the premium price tag of rivals like the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes E-Class. While it may not have matched the refinement levels of its more expensive competitors, the Senator delivered solid value for money in the executive car segment. Its straightforward engineering and relatively simple construction made it an accessible choice for drivers seeking executive car presence on a more modest budget. The Senator’s generous proportions and comfortable seating made it particularly attractive to those who prioritised space and practicality over outright prestige. Today, finding a Vauxhall Senator for sale represents an opportunity to own a piece of British automotive history, though buyers should be aware that parts availability and specialist knowledge may be limited compared to more common models like the Vauxhall Astra.
What's the Vauxhall Senator Like to Drive?
The Vauxhall Senator was never designed to be a sports car, instead focusing on smooth, refined power delivery. Most models came with either a 2.5-litre or 3.0-litre straight-six engine, producing between 130 to 180 horsepower depending on the variant. The 3.0-litre 24-valve version offered the strongest performance, reaching 60 mph in around 8.5 seconds. This was respectable for a large executive saloon of its era, prioritising effortless cruising over outright speed.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.5L / 3.0L Straight-6
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Power Output
130 - 180 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.5 - 10.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
22 - 28 mpg
- Boot Space
- 520 litres
- Safety Rating
- Not rated (pre-Euro NCAP)
Inside the Vauxhall Senator: Comfort & Features
Step inside a well-maintained Senator and you’re greeted by acres of space and 1980s luxury. The front seats are large and supportive, designed for executive comfort rather than sporty support. Higher-spec models featured electric adjustment, heated seats, and leather upholstery that still feels premium today. The dashboard layout is refreshingly simple, with clear analogue gauges and straightforward controls that actually work when you need them.
A surprisingly robust and understated grand tourer. The Senator offered genuine performance and comfort, often overlooked but representing a shrewd, value-driven alternative to its European rivals.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Vauxhall Senator?
Owning a Senator today means accepting 1980s fuel economy and maintenance requirements. Expect real-world fuel consumption of 22-28 MPG, which reflects the car’s size and age. Insurance costs are generally reasonable due to the car’s classic status and limited performance, though finding insurers willing to cover older vehicles can require specialist policies. Parts availability is the biggest challenge, with many components now obsolete or expensive to source.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Vauxhall Senator
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BMW 3 Series
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Ford Granada
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £3,000 | £4,000 | £2,500 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 3.0L I6 180hp | 2.0L I4 150hp | 2.8L V6 160hp |
| Power | 180 bhp | 150 bhp | 160 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.2 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 25 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 520 litres | 460 litres | 510 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Spacious interior, Smooth ride, Executive comfort | Sports handling, Build quality, Prestige badge | Reliable mechanicals, Good value, Parts availability |
Vauxhall Senator Practicality & Boot Space
For a classic executive car, the Senator offers excellent practicality. The 520-litre boot easily accommodates large suitcases, golf bags, or a family’s holiday luggage. The wide opening and low loading lip make it easy to load heavy items. Inside the cabin, door pockets and a decent-sized glove compartment provide storage for everyday items, though modern conveniences like cup holders are notably absent.
Bought my Senator three years ago and it’s been a wonderful classic to own. The ride comfort is incredible and it always draws admiring glances at car shows. Finding parts can be tricky but it’s worth the effort for such a distinctive car.
The Vauxhall Senator stands as a reminder of when British manufacturers built proper executive cars. It offers generous space, impressive comfort, and a refined driving experience that modern cars struggle to match. While running costs reflect its age and complexity, the Senator rewards patient owners with a genuinely distinctive classic car experience.
