1984 Holden WB Statesman De Ville Sedan

Description

When Holden killed off the full-size Kingswood and Premiers in 1980 due to the success of the smaller, European influenced Commodore model, the Statesman model was given a temporary reprieve and continued in production for a further five years. Introduced in April 1980, the final - and for many pundits best yet - incarnation of the popular Aussie luxury sedan had virtually all new sheetmetal, with a distinctive five-window side treatment, a new grille, headlamps and rear quarters. Styled under the direction of Leo Pruneau and his team, the result was a harmonious, attractive design that successfully updated the original HQ Statesman of 1971 for the 1980s. The Statesman's passenger compartment was brand new, with revamped dash fascia, instruments and redesigned seats covered in soft cord upholstery (with vinyl optional). The more luxurious Caprice came with a new digital radio/cassette, electric mirrors, optional leather upholstery and a dash-mounted trip computer. Under the bonnet, Holden's 5.0-litre V8 engine was mated to a T-bar automatic transmission (the Trimatic three-speed was used from 1981 onwards), disc brakes were employed all round, alloy wheels were standard and the steering had power assistance. Holden also produced a range of commercials on the WB base, with their own styling and cheaper interiors. From August 1983 the updated Series II model saw equipment levels improved, new soft tweed cloth trim on the De Ville and a satin silver finished instrument fascia. Proving a worthy competitor for Ford's Fairlane/LTD at last, the final WB Statesman rolled off the production line in 1985, marking the end of an era and in total some 60,231 were built. Today, the WB Statesmen enjoys a loyal following amongst Holden enthusiasts and good examples continue to be sought after.