1988 Holden HDT VL Commodore Group A SS Sedan

Description

Introduced in November 1986, the Group A SS version of the VL Commodore proved to be the final official Brock Holden Dealer Team model, largely due to controversy over the infamous Energy Polarizer but this wasn’t enough to stop Peter Brock winning Bathurst for a record ninth time in 1987. Built in extremely limited numbers (just 500 were made), the Group A SS used the tried and tested 5-litre V8 producing 137 kW at 4400 rpm, deriving its power from lightened con-rods and flywheel, a heavy duty crankshaft, new cross-flow cylinder heads, inlet manifold and a Rochester four-barrel carburettor. Power was delivered to the rear wheels through Borg Warner’s T5G five-speed gearbox, combined with a stronger clutch and limited slip diff. Closely related to its racing counterpart, as was intended by the Group A regulations, the HDT Group A SS also featured revised suspension settings, Bilstein gas pressure shock absorbers, uprated springs and a heavy duty stabilizer bar. Finished in Permanent Red, the Group A SS certainly looked the part: the full body kit included front and rear spoilers and a functional NACA bonnet scoop for cold air induction, along with Momo 16-7 star wheels shod with Bridgestone Potenza RE71 205/55VR-16 tyres, while a leather-trimmed Momo sports steering wheel, HDT gearstick knob and Scheel velour sports seats completed the list of interior upgrades. A Plus Pack version added the aforementioned Energy Polarizer, a high-pressure fuel pump, revised springs and sway bars plus Peter Brock’s signature decals, while air conditioning, sunroof and LE side skirts and rear apron were optional. Originally priced at $29,600, the HDT VL Commodores have shown rapid appreciation over the past few years and good examples have excellent investment potential.