Compared to rivals such as the Ford Scorpio and Rover 800, the Vauxhall Omega is an impressive package. It has high build quality and a stylish bodyshell. The drive is cosseting, with excellent seats, a well trimmed cabin and a bulky feel.
Engines are generally strong, but the diesel 2.0 DTi is a weak link, offering 0-60mph in a dismal 15 seconds. The livelier 2.0 TDi and 2.5 TD are better oil-burning choices. Three four-cylinder petrol units are also available - 2.0s in eight and 16-valve formats, plus the much-admired 2.2. Flagship cars have 2.5 or 3.0-litre V6s. In 2000, a 3.2 was used in the sporting top-of-the-range MV6, but these are rare on the used scene.
Omega checklist
* Paint finish wasn't brilliant on some early cars, especially the non-metallics. Look for rust blisters on rear arches, bonnet edges and door corners.
* Autos are tough, but make sure they work right. Omegas are smooth, so jerky changes mean a problem.
* Estates are worked hard, so check the load bay for damaged trim. Avoid ex-police cars unless they're dirt cheap.
*As fleet cars, Omegas can run up high mileages, so a proper service history is a must. Cambelts need changing every 60,000 miles or two years.
Glass's view
The Omega is a cheap alternative to a BMW, but lacks kudos. Trade bible Glass's Consumer Values says that means steep depreciation. Used makes more sense, but selling on will be hard.
My Omega
Allan Graham bought his 2001 Omega in January after relocating from New Zealand to Britain.
"I bought it because I'm used to driving a Holden Commodore back home," said the 36-year-old BBC Archive Service Co-ordinator, who lives in New Southgate, London. "The Omega is virtually the same car, apart from the engines, so it seemed the obvious choice."
In the six months he's had his 2.2i GLS, it has been plagued by an annoying fault with the climate control, which two dealerships both failed to fix. A third garage finally repaired the problem by taking the dashboard apart. Other than that, the Vauxhall has been very reliable.
Allan said: "I don't use it for commuting as I take the Tube. The motor is really for weekends, as I often go away. I've driven up to Yorkshire several times and also across to France. I like cars that are comfortable and relaxing to drive, and the Omega fits the bill - it's quiet, refined, roomy and is reasonably good on fuel."
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