The 3.0-liter Opel X30XE or Ecotec L81 engine was produced in England from 1994 to 2001 and was installed on such popular concern models as Omega, Sintra and Cadillac Catera. There was an even more powerful and very rare version of this unit with the X30XEI index.
X20 family: X20SE, X20XEV, X22SE, X22XE, X25XE, X30XE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1994-2001 |
| Displacement, cc | 2962 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 200 – 210 |
| Torque output, Nm | 260 – 270 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 86 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 85 |
| Compression ratio | 10.8 |
| Features | Multiram |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.8 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Opel Omega 2000) — city — highway — combined |
15.8 8.4 9.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~380 000 |
| Weight, kg | 190 |
The engine was installed on:
- Opel Omega B (V94) in 1994 – 2001;
- Opel Sintra A (APV) in 1996 – 1999;
- Cadillac Catera 1 in 1996 – 2001.
Disadvantages of the X30XE engine
- This motor does not like frost and there are problems with starting at low temperatures;
- Lubrication here constantly oozes from under the valve cover and fills the candle wells;
- The oil cooler leaks very often, from there the lubricant enters the cooling system;
- Due to the low position of the oil receiver, any damage to the sump will block it;
- Monitor the condition of the timing belt, its resource is 60 thousand km, and when it breaks, the valves bend.
Frequently asked questions about the Opel X30XE
How much power does the Opel X30XE make?
The Opel X30XE develops 200 - 210 hp and 260 - 270 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Opel X30XE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.8 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Opel X30XE have a timing belt or chain?
The Opel X30XE uses a timing belt.
Is the Opel X30XE turbocharged?
No, the Opel X30XE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Opel X30XE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Opel X30XE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Opel X30XE last?
The typical lifespan of the Opel X30XE is ~380 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Opel X30XE?
Opel Omega 2000: city 15.8, highway 8.4, combined 9.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the Opel X30XE installed on?
Opel Omega B (V94) in 1994 - 2001; Opel Sintra A (APV) in 1996 - 1999; Cadillac Catera 1 in 1996 - 2001.
What are the common problems of the Opel X30XE?
This motor does not like frost and there are problems with starting at low temperatures. Lubrication here constantly oozes from under the valve cover and fills the candle wells. All known problems.





