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Vauxhall Carlton Mk 3 (1987-1993)

Total Production: N/A; Lotus Carlton=950
Recorded in UK 2024
Mark 1
2.2 CD Licensed=0 SORN=5
Mark 2
CDX Manual Licensed=1 SORN=4
CDX Auto Licensed=0 SORN=4
GSi 12v Licensed=7 SORN=46
GSi 24v Licensed=16 SORN=73

Vauxhall Carlton Mk 3 (1987-1993)

The Vauxhall Carlton had a few common issues reported by owners:

1. **Excessive Oil Use**: Some Carlton models are known to use an excessive amount of oil. Keep an eye on oil levels and top up if necessary, as long as there are no leaks or blue smoke from the exhaust.

2. **Rear Wheel Arches Rusting**: Rusting in the rear wheel arches is a frequent problem. You can try rubbing them down and painting over the rust or simply live with it.

3. **Fuel Injection Problem**: The fuel injection system may fail due to a faulty fuel injection relay. Replace the relay in the black relay box to resolve this issue.

4. **ABS Problems**: If the ABS warning light appears and the ABS engages even during light braking, you likely have a faulty ABS sensor. Diagnose which sensor is faulty and replace it.

5. **Water Leaking into Front Footwells**: Water leaking into the front footwells is common. Check the bulkhead drains under the bonnet and unblock them if necessary.

6. **Starting Problems**: If your Carlton has trouble starting, the Engine Management Unit (ECU) may be at fault. Run a diagnostic check and replace the ECU if needed.

Generations
The Vauxhall Carlton was produced in **two generations**:

1. **Mark I (1978–1986)**: The first generation, launched in 1978, shared its platform with the Opel Rekord E. It featured Vauxhall's distinctive "droop snoot" front end and a spacious interior.

2. **Mark II (1986–1994)**: The second generation, known as the Mk.II, continued the Carlton legacy. It was based on the Opel Omega A and replaced the Mk.I. The Carlton was eventually succeeded by the Vauxhall Omega.
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Body Styles
The Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3 was offered in two main body styles:

1. **4-door saloon**
2. **5-door estate**

These options provided versatility for buyers looking for either a traditional saloon or a more spacious estate.
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Trim Levels
The Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3 was offered in several trim levels to cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are the main trim levels:

1. **L**: The base model with essential features.
2. **GL**: Added more comfort and convenience features.
3. **CD**: A more luxurious trim with additional features.
4. **CDX**: The top-of-the-line trim with the most features and luxury.
5. **GSi**: A sportier version with performance enhancements.

These trim levels provided a range of options from basic to luxurious, ensuring there was a Carlton to suit various needs.
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Engines
The Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3 was offered with a variety of engines to cater to different performance needs. Here are the main engine options:

1. **2.0-litre petrol**: A reliable and efficient option for everyday driving.
2. **2.6-litre straight-six petrol**: Provided more power and smooth performance.
3. **3.0-litre straight-six petrol**: Available in both 12-valve and 24-valve versions, with the latter offering significantly more power and torque.
4. **2.3-litre diesel**: For those seeking better fuel economy.
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Spares
You can find spares for a Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3 at several places in the UK and Ireland. Here are some options:

1. **AutoPartsPro**
- **Website**: [AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/vauxhall-carlton-carparts)
- They offer a wide range of parts for the Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3, including brakes, filters, suspension components, and more.

2. **EU-Spares**
- **Website**: [EU-Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/vauxhall/carlton/carlton-mk-iii)
- Provides original parts for the Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3.

3. **Car-Parts.ie**
- **Website**: [Car-Parts.ie](https://www.car-parts.ie/car-brands/vauxhall/carlton-mk-iii-parts)
- Offers a comprehensive catalogue of parts for the Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3.

These sources should help you locate the parts you need for your Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3.
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND VAUXHALL SPECIALIST LIST**

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website
2. Wilsons of Rathkenny
o Address: 371 Cushendall Road, Ballymena BT43 6QB
o Phone: 028 2175 8177
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Townparks Car Sales Antrim
o Address: Springfarm Industrial Estate, Antrim BT41 4NZ
o Phone: 028 9446 2506
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. NI Vans
o Address: 1 Ashtree Hill, Craigavon BT62 2LH
o Phone: 028 3884 9777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. McMullan Auto Services
o Address: 2 Moy Road, Armagh BT61 8DL
o Phone: 028 3752 2911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. Ballyrobert Vauxhall
o Address: 402 Bangor Road, Bangor BT19 1UE
o Phone: 028 9127 2701
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Donnelly Group
o Address: 62 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6LR
o Phone: 028 9038 1729
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Lochside Garages
o Address: 101 Irvinestown Road, Enniskillen BT74 6GQ
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Higgins Autos
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
Lloyd Cooke Motors
o Address: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 14:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. Donnelly Group
o Address: Maydown Carrakeel Drive, Maydown, Derry/Londonderry BT47 6UQ
o Phone: 028 7122 6386
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday by appointment only
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Group
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. McMullan Autobreakers
o Address: 15 Melmount Road, Sion Mills, Strabane BT82 9ET
o Phone: 028 8165 9500
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website
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Racing
The Vauxhall Carlton Mark 3, particularly the high-performance **Lotus Carlton** variant, was involved in racing. The Lotus Carlton, also known as the Opel Lotus Omega, was a collaboration between Vauxhall and Lotus to create a high-performance sports saloon. It featured a 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged engine producing 377 bhp, making it one of the fastest saloons of its time.

The Lotus Carlton was used in various motorsport events and gained a reputation for its impressive performance and speed. It was particularly noted for its ability to compete with high-end sports cars, despite being a large saloon.

The **Lotus Carlton**, also known as the Opel Lotus Omega, is a high-performance sports saloon that was produced from 1990 to 1992. It was a collaboration between Vauxhall and Lotus, aimed at creating one of the fastest saloons of its time. Here are some key details:

### Engine and Performance
- **Engine**: 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six
- **Power Output**: 377 bhp at 5,200 rpm
- **Torque**: 419 lb-ft at 4,200 rpm
- **Transmission**: 6-speed ZF manual, the same as used in the Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1
- **Top Speed**: 177 mph (285 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: 4.9 seconds¹²

### Design and Features
- **Body Style**: 4-door saloon
- **Layout**: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
- **Exterior**: Featured a rear spoiler, cooling vents on the bonnet, wider wheel arches, and a body kit to enhance aerodynamics and cooling.
- **Interior**: Luxurious with leather seats and advanced instrumentation for its time.

### Racing and Legacy
- The Lotus Carlton was known for its impressive performance and was often compared to high-end sports cars. Its combination of speed, handling, and practicality made it a legend in the automotive world.

### Production
- **Total Units Produced**: Approximately 950.

The Lotus Carlton remains a highly regarded vehicle among car enthusiasts and collectors due to its unique blend of performance and luxury.

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