Vauxhall Lotus Carlton 3.6 Twin-Turbo
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton (known as the Opel Lotus Omega in continental Europe) was the car that proved a family sedan could embarrass supercars. Engineered by Lotus at their Hethel headquarters, it took the humble Vauxhall Carlton executive saloon and transformed it into the fastest production sedan in the world, with a top speed of 176 mph — faster than a Ferrari 348 or Porsche 911 Turbo.
The transformation was comprehensive. Lotus took the standard Carlton's 3.0-liter inline-six engine, bored it to 3.6 liters, fitted twin Garrett T25 turbochargers, strengthened the internals, and produced 377 horsepower — a massive figure for 1990. A ZF six-speed manual gearbox (the first six-speed in a production sedan) transmitted power to a limited-slip differential, while AP Racing brakes, 17-inch wheels, and a subtly aggressive body kit completed the package.
The Lotus Carlton became a media sensation — and a political controversy. Its 176 mph top speed led to questions in the British Parliament about whether such a car should be legal on public roads. The tabloid press called it 'the getaway car' and demanded it be banned. General Motors defended the car, pointing out that speed limits, not engine power, governed road behavior.
Only 950 were built between 1990 and 1992, including both Vauxhall (UK) and Opel (Europe) versions. Today, the Lotus Carlton is a highly sought-after collectors' car, recognized as one of the greatest super-saloons ever built. Its combination of family sedan practicality and supercar performance was decades ahead of its time, foreshadowing the modern super-sedan era of AMG and M cars.
Only 950 were built — verify authenticity against Lotus build records. Every genuine car was Imperial Green with Cream leather. Check for turbo wear and boost leaks — the twin-turbo system is the most critical mechanical component. ZF six-speed gearbox is expensive to rebuild. Self-leveling rear suspension can fail. AP Racing brakes should be inspected for pad and disc condition. Bodywork rot appears in typical Vauxhall trouble spots — sills, wheel arches, boot floor. Engine is stressed — check for head gasket issues and oil leaks. Values have risen sharply — provenance and condition are everything.
Engineered and assembled by Lotus Cars at Hethel, Norfolk. Based on the Vauxhall Carlton/Opel Omega A platform. Twin Garrett T25 turbochargers on a bored-out 3.6L inline-6. ZF S6-40 six-speed manual — first six-speed in a production sedan. Only 950 built (440 Vauxhall Carlton, 510 Opel Omega). All painted Imperial Green.