1980 Holden VC Commodore SL Sedan

Description

Holden's second generation Commodore was introduced in March 1980, distinguished by a facelift that included a new eggcrate-style grille and various detail changes. More significant improvements took place beneath the skin, the elderly 'red' motor (dating back to the EH of 1963) finally replaced with a redesigned six featuring a new 12-port head, manifolds, two-barrel carburetor and electronic ignition. Both 4.2 and 5.0 V8s also benefited from new heads, a new inlet manifold and electronic ignition and as a result of these changes, the so-called 'blue' motors achieved more power, better reliability and greater fuel economy. Holden also introduced the option of a four-cylinder Commodore with the VC, using an updated version of the 1.9-litre unit originally seen in the Torana Sunbird, but it proved a commercial failure. Other changes saw the suspension revamped to improve the Commodore's ride and handling. Holden revised the line-up to include a new base model badged the Commodore L, alongside the existing SL and SL/E variants. Both the SL and SL/E had black instrument fascias, a new centre console and cruise control was optional for the first time. The VC continued to sell in record numbers, with 121,807 made between 1980 and 1981 - representing a 25 per cent increase over the already strong selling VB. Mid-way through 1980 Peter Brock's Holden Dealer Team began producing highly tuned and visually enhanced examples of the VC Commodore, creating the first in a series of classic Aussie muscle cars.