Vauxhall Carlton Mk III Estate 2.3 D CAT (73 Hp)
Overall Rating
Vauxhall Carlton Mk:
The Vauxhall Carlton is a series of large family car/executive car sold in two distinct generations by the Vauxhall division of GM Europe between 1978 and 1994. The Carlton was based on the Opel Rekord E and Omega A.
With the exception of the pre-facelift Mk. 1 cars, most Carltons were manufactured by Opel in Rüsselsheim, and differed only from their Opel Rekord/Omega sisters in badging and trim.
It was replaced by the Omega B in 1994, mirroring the standardisation of model names across both GM Europe brands....(Read more on Wikipedia)
III Estate Overview:
Vauxhall Carlton Mk (III Estate). Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
2.3 D CAT (73 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Quite underpowered for a large estate, suitable for relaxed driving but struggles with heavy loads or spirited acceleration.
Fuel Economy
Good fuel economy due to its diesel nature and lower power output, ideal for cost-conscious drivers.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Spacious and practical estate body
- • Comfortable ride quality
- • Wide range of engine options from economical to powerful
- • Generally robust and reliable for its age
- • Good value on the used market
Cons:
- • Dated safety features by modern standards
- • Some engines can be thirsty (especially larger petrols)
- • Rust can be an issue on older models
- • Handling is more comfort-oriented than sporty
- • Interior plastics can feel utilitarian
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(II Estate (facelift 1982): 1984 - 1986).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Vauxhall |
| Model: | Carlton Mk |
| Generation: | III Estate |
| Modification (Engine): | 2.3 D CAT (73 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1986 |
| End of production: | 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 73 Hp Same horsepower |
| Engine Model/Code: | 23YD More details about the engine 23YD |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10.9 l |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |













Your first impression of the Vauxhall Carlton Mk in one word? Go!