1987 Vauxhall Senator B Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Vauxhall Senator B ranges from 1405 kg to 1494 kg (3,098 to 3,295 pounds), which refers to the vehicle's weight including standard equipment and fluids but excluding passengers or cargo. Its maximum permissible weight, which accounts for the vehicle plus passengers, cargo, and additional load, is between 1965 kg and 2005 kg (4,331 to 4,422 pounds). This weight range reflects its solid construction typical of a mid-to-large luxury sedan, balancing performance and durability.

The Vauxhall Senator B offers a generous luggage capacity of 530 liters (18.7 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright, which is ample for typical family luggage or groceries. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity expands significantly to between 530 to 930 liters (18.7 to 32.8 cubic feet), allowing for transportation of larger or more voluminous items. This flexible cargo configuration enhances the practicality of the Senator B for both everyday use and longer trips.

The Vauxhall Senator B is equipped with rim sizes of 6J x 15 and 7J x 15, paired with tires sized 205/65 R15. These tire dimensions support a balanced combination of ride comfort, handling, and road grip suitable for this executive sedan. The 15-inch rims are typical for vehicles of this era and size, providing adequate clearance for brakes while maintaining a classic profile.

The Vauxhall Senator B, with a length of 4845 mm (190.7 inches) and width of 1763 mm (69.4 inches) excluding mirrors, should generally fit into a standard garage. Standard single-car garage dimensions typically range around 2400 mm (width) by 4800 mm (length). However, the width with mirrors opened is approximately 1923 to 1932 mm (75.7 to 76.1 inches), so care must be taken when parking close to garage walls or other vehicles. Overall, the Senator B's size is compatible with most average residential garages but requires mindful maneuvering particularly due to mirror width.

The roof load capacity of the Vauxhall Senator B is 100 kg (220 lbs), which is within the typical range for executive sedans from the late 1980s and early 1990s. This capacity allows owners to securely carry rooftop luggage carriers, bicycle racks, or other attachments without compromising vehicle safety or handling. Comparable sedans from this era and segment generally offer similar roof load limits, balancing functionality and aerodynamic stability.

Compared to its predecessor, the Senator A, the Senator B generation introduced in 1987 featured a notable increase in size and refinement. The later Senator B is longer and wider, offering more passenger and cargo space while maintaining a similar height profile. This evolutionary growth improved comfort, road presence, and interior space, aligning with luxury sedan expectations of the late 1980s and early 1990s. The Senator B also included updated styling, enhanced equipment, and improved driving dynamics compared to the Senator A.

The Vauxhall Senator B's size—around 4.8 meters long and 1.76 meters wide—places it firmly within the executive sedan category, comparable to vehicles like the BMW 5 Series (E34) and Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124) of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While slightly more spacious in luggage capacity than some competitors, the Senator B offered competitive interior comfort and equipment levels. It was known for combining British design with decent performance and practicality, though it often lagged behind German rivals in brand prestige and engine refinement.

The Vauxhall Senator B's curb weight varies from 1405 kg to 1494 kg (3,098 to 3,295 lbs). This moderate weight for an executive sedan results from its solid build quality combined with the technology of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While the weight contributes to a stable and comfortable ride, it also affects fuel consumption, with heavier vehicles generally being less fuel-efficient than lighter counterparts. Handling benefits from the well-balanced weight distribution, but the car is less nimble compared to lighter or more modern sedans.

The Vauxhall Senator B has a width of 1763 mm (69.4 inches) without its mirrors but expands to about 1923 to 1932 mm (75.7 to 76.1 inches) with the mirrors fully opened. This increases the car’s overall footprint by approximately 16 to 17 cm (6 to 6.7 inches), which is significant when maneuvering in tight spaces such as narrow streets or parking spots. Drivers need to be cautious to avoid mirror damage or contact with objects. Folding mirrors, if equipped, can help alleviate these width concerns.