Holden Special Vehicles

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Holden Special Vehicles, abbreviated HSV is the officially designated performance vehicle division of Australian motor automobile manufacturer Holden. Based in Clayton, Victoria and established in 1987, HSV modifies Holden products such as the Commodore, Caprice and Ute giving them unique body-work and alloy wheels, up-spec interiors, and improved all-round performance thanks to upgraded engines, brakes, transmissions and suspension.

History

HSV was created in 1987 as a joint venture between Holden and TWR - an operation owned by Scottish racing car driver and entrepreneur Tom Walkinshaw. HSV effectively replaced the Holden Dealer Team (HDT) special vehicles operation run by Peter Brock, after Holden severed its ties with HDT in February 1987 following the "Energy Polarizer" and "HDT Director" controversies. With the more recent demise of TWR's global companies, HSV still remains a partnership between Holden and Walkinshaw, the joint ownership company being Premoso Pty Ltd.

The first car produced by HSV was the Holden VL Commodore SS Group A SV in 1988 (based on the VL Commodore and not to be confused with the HDT's similarly named Holden VL Commodore SS Group A). It had a distinctive body kit with a large rear wing (earning it the nicknames "The Batmobile" and the "Plastic Pig") and was powered by a modified version of the Holden 5.0 litre V8, which had dual throttle body electronic fuel injection and was rated at 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) in road car form. It was built as a touring car homologation package for Group A racing and in racing form, managed to win the 1990 Bathurst 1000 race in the hands of Allan Grice and Win Percy for HSV's racing arm, the Holden Racing Team.

Over the years HSV have built an array of modified vehicles, most of which have been based on the Commodore and powered by either Holden or Chevrolet sourced V8s. Notable HSV models include the SS Group A (both the 1988 VL and 1990 VN Commodore versions), the SV 5000, Clubsport, Senator, GTS, GTS-R, XU6 and the Grange. Prior to the introduction of Fords FG FPV Falcons, the 2006 HSV GTS was the most powerful production vehicle in Australia, producing 417 PS (307 kW; 412 bhp) from its 6.0-litre Chevrolet V8, and can produce claimed 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) times of 5.2 seconds, and 13.5 second 0-400 metre (1/4 mile) sprints.[1]

Since the year 2000, HSV's products have progressively found their way into export markets in limited numbers, most notably to the United Kingdom. Also, recently in 2007, HSV celebrated it's 20th Anniversary with the limited release of 100 Clubsport R8 20th Anniversary Edition. This anniversary edition was followed by the HSV move into the Middle Eastern market as Chevrolet Special Vehicles (CSV) with the CSV CR8

Model series

VL

The VL SS Group A SV was HSV's first production model. Developed under contract to Holden, it was released in March 1988. Modifications were made to the standard Holden 5.0 litre V8 to produce 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) @ 5200 rpmand 380 Nm @ 4000 rpm. Best known for the polarising body kit and bluish-silver colour, the VL Group A SS was also the first model to feature a fuel-injected version of the Holden V8, with the first EFI VN Holden Commodore V8s not released until August 1988. The SV88 model was based on the VL Holden Calais and used a carburetored version of the V8 producing 185 PS (136 kW; 182 bhp).

• Calais SV88
• Commodore F20 SV
• Holden Commodore SS Group A SV

Specifications

Model	Number Built	Engine	Power	Torque	Tyres	0 - 100 km/h (62 mph)	Standing 400 m (1/4 mile)	Top Speed	RRP (AUD)
Calais SV88	150	4987 cc V8	185 PS (136 kW; 182 bhp)@ 4400 rpm	355 N·m (262 ft·lbf) @ 3200 rpm	205/55 VR 16 - Bridgestone RE71	8.98 s [2]	16.44 s
Holden Commodore SS Group A SV	750, 500 initially, additional 250	4987 cc V8	245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) @ 5200 rpm	380 N·m (280 ft·lbf) @ 4000 rpm	205/55 VR 16 - Bridgestone RE71	6.9 s	14.8 s	230 km/h (143 mph)
F20 SV	4	2962 cc I6	155 PS (114 kW, 153 hp) @ 5200 rpm	247 N·m (182 ft·lbf) @ 3200 rpm	205/55 VR 16 - Bridgestone RE71
F20 SV Turbo Option	4	2962 cc I6 with Turbo	204 PS (150 kW, 201 hp) @ 5200 rpm	296 N·m (218.5 ft·lbf) @ 3200 rpm	205/55 VR 16 - Bridgestone RE71	7.63 s [3]	15.5 s	223 km/h (139 mph)

VN/VG/VQ

A number of models based on the VN Holden Commodore were developed by HSV the most potent of these being the Commodore SS Group A SV built for Holden. It featured an extensively modified version of Holden's 5.0 litre V8 to produce 292 PS (215 kW; 288 bhp) @ 5200 rpm and 411 N·m @ 4000 rpm coupled to a six-speed ZF S6-40 manual transmission as used in the Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1. Upgrades were also made to the suspension, tyres and brakes. 500 cars was the original production target for homologation reasons, but only 302 were ultimately produced in non sequential order meaning build number 450 may exist while build number 100 may not. [4] Other models used either 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) or 272 PS (200 kW; 268 bhp) versions of the same V8 except the SV3800, which had a 179 PS (132 kW; 177 bhp) 3.8 litre V6. In 1990, the first HSV Maloo was released, based on the VG series Holden Ute of the time. The lighter Ute body provided a performance edge over the other HSV sedan counterparts. Models based on the long-wheelbase VQ Holden Statesman were released soon after. The SV90 and SV93 were treated with reworked suspension, wider front track and the 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) V8. The Statesman 5000i (in both series I and II form) featured 272 PS (200 kW; 268 bhp).

• Clubsport
• Holden Commodore SS Group A SV
• Maloo (Ute)
• Statesman 5000i
• Statesman SV90
• Statesman SV93
• SV3800
• SV LE Sedan
• SV LE Wagon
• SV89
• SV5000

VP

With the release of the VP series, HSV began introducing IRS to its models as well as introducing new model names , Senator and GTS which continue to be used to the present day. While the entry-level Clubsport and luxury Senator are equipped with the 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) V8, the high-performance GTS came standard with the 272 PS (200 kW; 268 bhp) version and HSV's premium brake package. LSDs were standard across the range.

• Clubsport
• GTS
• Maloo
• Senator
• SV91
• Formula
• HSV+6

VR/VS

Following the appointment of award-winning designer Ian Callum as design chief for TWR, VR series HSV models benefited from a more cohesive and stylish body design. Upgrades were made to the 5.0 litre V8 to yield 252 PS (185 kW; 248 bhp), while the GTS included a 5.7 litre stroked version producing 292 PS (215 kW; 288 bhp) (also available as an option on the Senator) from May 1994 onwards. The VS series of 1995 introduced mild styling tweaks and a new three-spoke alloy wheel design. A value-oriented Manta was established as the base HSV model to broaden appeal. In 1996, a limited edition flagship GTS-R was created which came standard with the 5.7 litre V8, Tremec T56 six-speed transmission and Hydratrak LSD package. Available only in a polarising bright yellow colour (known as "XU-3 Yellah") with carbon fibre inserts and large rear wing, the GTS-R engine could be blueprinted for more power. 85 GTS-Rs were produced (ten exported to New Zealand). The VS series II of 1996 introduced HSV's ISS (Integrated Security System) as standard, which featured an immobiliser and different electronics configuration for each car produced in an effort to deter theft. [5] In 1997, a new Statesman-based model known as the Grange replaced previous HSV Statesman models.

• Clubsport
• GTS
• Maloo
• Manta
• Senator
• Statesman
• Grange (From 1997 Series II)

Specifications

Model	Number Built	Engine	Power	Torque	Tyres	0 - 100 km/h (62 mph)	Standing 400 m (1/4 mile)	Top Speed	RRP (AUD)
Maloo (Ute)	97 to December 1995	4987 cc V8	252 PS (185 kW; 248 bhp) @ 4800 rpm	400 N·m (295 ft·lbf) @ 3600 rpm	205/55 ZR16 - Bridgestone Expedia S-01
Manta (Sedan)	195 to Dec 1995	4987 cc V8	252 PS (185 kW; 248 bhp) @ 4800 rpm	400 N·m (295 ft·lbf) @ 3600 rpm	225/50 ZR16 - Bridgestone Expedia S-01				$45,360 (Man), $46,675 (Auto)
Manta (Station Wagon)		4987 cc V8	252 PS (185 kW; 248 bhp) @ 4800 rpm	400 N·m (295 ft·lbf) @ 3600 rpm	225/50 ZR16 - Bridgestone Expedia S-01				$48,640 (Man), $49,990 (Auto)
Clubsport	593 December 1995	4987 cc V8	252 PS (185 kW; 248 bhp) @ 4800 rpm	400 N·m (295 ft·lbf) @ 3600 rpm	235/45 ZR17 - Bridgestone Expedia S-01				$49,790 (Man), $51,150 (Auto)
Senator (5.0 L 185i Model)	416 to Dec 95	4987 cc V8	252 PS (185 kW; 248 bhp) @ 4800 rpm	400 N·m (295 ft·lbf) @ 3600 rpm	235/45 ZR17 - Bridgestone Expedia S-01				$59,785 (Man & Auto)
Senator (5.7 L 215i Model)		5737 cc V8	292 PS (215 kW; 288 bhp) @ 4800 rpm	475 N·m (350.5 ft·lbf) @ 3600 rpm	235/45 ZR17 - Bridgestone Expedia S-01				$72,740 (Man & Auto)
GTS	158 December 1995	5737 cc V8	292 PS (215 kW; 288 bhp) @ 4800 rpm	475 N·m (350.5 ft·lbf) @ 3600 rpm	235/45 ZR17 - Bridgestone Expedia S-01	5.84 s [6]	16.06 s	246 km/h (152 mph)	$65,975 (Man & Auto)

VT

This series was based on the all-new Holden VT Commodore bodyshell. This was the last series with the Australian-built 265 PS (195 kW; 261 bhp) 5.0 litre V8 (cast iron block) and the 299 PS (220 kW; 295 bhp) 5.7 litre stroker in the GTS. A Senator Signature wagon was introduced and was mechanically identical to the sedan counterpart. The VS ute body was maintained for the Maloo. There were only 180 HSV VT Mantas produced, after which the Manta was dropped from production.

The XU8 technically contained Holden/HSV's last Australian produced V8, just prior to the introduction of the more powerful Chevrolet LS1 engine.

• Clubsport
• Grange
• GTS
• Maloo
• Manta
• Senator Signature
• Senator Signature Wagon
• XU8

VT II

A major update from the VT series, the VT II introduced the new 340 PS (250 kW; 335 bhp) 5.7 litre GENIII LS1 V8. Several models were removed from the line-up in the transition through to the VTII: Manta, Senator Signature wagon and XU8. The flagship GTS presented many unique features such as a Callaway tuned 408 PS (300 kW; 402 bhp) version of the LS1, a 3.91 final drive ratio and the addition of toe-control links to the IRS suspension, among others. The recent release of the new WH Holden Statesman and Caprice in 2001 allowed the Grange to gain its new look. This series also saw the introduction of a supercharged V6 model named the XU6. Additionally, a more performance-oriented Clubsport R8 model was added to complement the existing Clubsport. The R8 came standard with HSV's 'Performance' suspension and braking package, which were offered as optional extras on the Clubsport. Again, the VS ute body was maintained for the Maloo just as it was in the VTI range.

• Clubsport
• Clubsport R8
• Grange
• GTS
• Maloo
• Senator Signature
• XU6

VX

Acting on feedback from owners, HSV strove to distinguish their vehicles from normal Holden Commodores. To achieve this, HSV designed greater changes to body kits and interior features to better differentiate their products. This series also saw the addition of 7 PS (5 kW; 7 bhp) to the LS1. The introduction of the new VU Holden Ute allowed HSV to produce an all-new Maloo variant. A limited edition Senator 300 model also became available, equipped with the 408 PS (300 kW; 402 bhp) V8 and suspension modifications from the GTS.

• Clubsport
• Clubsport R8
• Grange
• GTS
• Maloo
• Senator Signature
• Senator 300
• XU6

VX II

This model saw the introduction of HSVs first Coupé models based on the new Holden Monaro. The GTS sedan in this series was replaced by the Coupé GTS, with a less powerful 347 PS (255 kW; 342 bhp) GTO Coupe available also. A Maloo R8 model was added with similar specification to the Clubsport R8. A special edition, the SV300 was also introduced to the VXII series to replace the Senator 300. Toe-control links for the rear suspension was included across the range in line with the VX update to the Commodore for improved handling. The VXII update also brought with it the addition of Microdots across the range in order to reduce theft, a feature HSV refers to as HSV DNA.

• Clubsport
• Clubsport R8
• Coupé GTO
• Coupé GTS
• Grange
• Maloo
• Maloo R8
• Senator Signature
• SV300
• XU6

Y Series

Coinciding with the release of the VY Commodore, HSV produced the Y Series models, sporting redesigned bodykit styling. The use of the "Y Series" name instead of VY communicated HSV's intention to further distance their models from the Holden counterparts. The GTS returned in sedan form in this series with more aggressive styling. Recalibration of the ECU saw another power bump up to 354 PS (260 kW; 349 bhp). This saw the end of the supercharged XU6 due to lack of demand and perceived lack of power increase over Holden's supercharged V6 models. Meanwhile, the Senator range was split into entry-level grand tourer Senator and high-end luxury Senator Signature models.

• Clubsport
• Clubsport R8
• Coupé GTO
• Coupé GTS
• Grange
• GTS
• Maloo
• Maloo R8
• Senator
• Senator Signature

Y II Series

A larger power upgrade to 387 PS (285 kW; 382 bhp) saw a big performance gain. This also sparked rumors that a new engine was due to be used, with the development of GM's new LS2 nearly complete. This power upgrade closed the performance gap between HSV's mainstream models and the 408 PS (300 kW; 402 bhp) flagship GTS, which prompted speculation that the GTS was set for a power increase as well. An updated WK Statesman/Caprice from Holden also formed the basis for the new Grange. The GTO Coupé returned, and the forays of parent company Holden into AWD saw the introduction of the Avalanche (based on the Holden Adventra), the XUV (based on the Holden Crewman), and the Coupé4 (based on the Holden Monaro). The latter was particularly significant, as it was the first time that Holden's AWD system had been used in such a low-riding application. These new additions to the range made the Y Series II the biggest HSV range in history, with 16 variants.

• Clubsport
• Clubsport R8
• Clubsport SE
• Maloo
• Maloo R8
• GTS
• Senator
• Coupé GTS
• Coupé GTO
• Coupé LE
• Grange
• Senator
• Senator Signature
• Coupé4 AWD
• Avalanche XUV
• XUV AWD

Z Series

This series of HSVs (released in October 2004) were known as the "Z" Series, reflecting on the VZ Holden Commodore they were based on. This saw the introduction of the new GM LS2 V8 into all the models, providing 404 PS (297 kW; 398 bhp) across the board. The AWD models retained the LS1. The lack of GTS in the series can be attributed to a negligible power difference between the new LS2 models and a potential 408 PS (300 kW; 402 bhp) GTS, sparking rumors of that the new LS7 V8 was going to be used in the next series.So to replace the gts a limited edition clubsport was released as the SV6000, the run was limited to 50. A new WL Statesman/Caprice model also saw the Grange get an upgrade. This was the last series of HSV to be based on the 1997-2006 VT Commodore V-body chassis. On May 25, 2006, a standard 2006 HSV Maloo R8 driven by Mark Skaife was recorded at an averaged speed of 271.44 km/h (168.7 mph) on a closed section of road in Woomera, South Australia.[7] The speed was recognised by the Guinness World Records representative, Chris Sheedy, as the Fastest Production Pickup Truck recorded. The speed improved over the previous record held by a Dodge Ram SRT-10 at 248.784 km/h (154.587 mph).

• Clubsport
• Clubsport R8
• SV6000 (see Limited editions)
• Coupé GTO
• Grange
• Maloo
• Maloo R8
• Yellow Thunder Maloo R8 15th Anniversary (see Limited Editions)
• Senator
• Coupé4 AWD
• Avalanche AWD

E Series

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2010 HSV E Series lineup

An all-new Holden Commodore chassis, known as the VE was unveiled in July 2006. Following this, a new range of "E" Series HSV models were released in August 2006.

Changes to the exhaust system yielded a 13 PS (10 kW; 13 bhp) increase in power (see below) for the LS2 to 417 PS (307 kW; 412 bhp). Extensive modifications to the base VE Commodore sheetmetal and interior were introduced, most notably the unique LED tailights and distinctive side vents. The new GM 6L80-E 6 speed automatic transmission from the VE Commodore is offered, and Electronic Stability Control is standard on all models. Manual models get an M10 Tremec T56 which has better gear selecting accuracy.

The GTS and Senator Signature additionally feature switchable Magnetic Ride Control to improve ride and handling. As such, the E series represents HSV's most expensive model developments in its history [8], with the MRC suspension system alone costing AUD$4.5 million. [9] In October, a new Grange model based on the Holden WM Statesman was released featuring the same V8 and MRC suspension as the Senator Signature and GTS, albeit with its own unique settings.

In August 2008, HSV launched its new flagship model, the W427. This car is based on the GTS, but carries a 7.0 L LS7 V8 engine along with larger brakes, strengthened gearbox, revised suspension and unique MRC settings. The W427 is the most powerful car ever made in Australia with power outputs of 510 PS (375 kW; 503 bhp) @ 7000rpm and 640Nm @ 5000rpm. It is also the most expensive, at $155 500.

On March 28 2008, HSV announced that the LS3 6.2 litre engine would be fitted to all E-Series models (with the exception of the LS7 W427) from April 2008. The LS3 power output is 431 PS (317 kW; 425 bhp), whilst peak torque has not increased over the LS2. May the 12th , 2008 saw the announcement of a new HSV E Series model; the HSV "Tourer". This new model, based on the VE Holden Sportwagon was later officially released in September 2008.

• Clubsport R8
• Grange
• GTS
• Senator Signature
• Maloo R8
• Clubsport R8 20th Anniversary Edition (see Limited Editions)
• W427
• Clubsport R8 Tourer

**The power and torque measurements have changed from the stricter ECE method in the Z series to the DIN method for the E series. The use of 98 RON fuel is also now recommended over 95 RON. Thus the actual power increase is likely to be less than 13 PS (10 kW; 13 bhp), however the exact amount cannot be determined without testing data.

• 

Other models

Although the majority of HSV models are based on variants of the Holden Commodore, HSV has also produced a few cars based on other models part of the Holden lineup.

Astra

• The Astra SV1800 was released in 1988, and were based on the Holden Astra of the time (which was based on a Nissan Pulsar N13 series). They shared the same 1.8L engine as the standard Astras, however, and only ~65 were made in both sedan and hatchback form.
• The HSV VXR is a rebadged Vauxhall Astra VXR and is being imported from the UK as of 2006. It has a 2.0 litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 239 PS (176 kW; 236 bhp)/320 nm, coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission. Additionally it is equipped with the adaptive IDS (Interactive Driving System) suspension system along with ESC, traction control, ABS and BA.

Jackaroo

Based on the Holden Jackaroo of the time, the HSV Jackaroo was released in 1993 and came equipped with the same 177 PS (130 kW; 174 bhp) 3.2L SOHC V6 as the standard Holden Jackaroo.

Limited editions

• GTS-R
• SV99
• GTS300
• SV300
• SV3800
• SV1800
• SV5000
• SV6000
• Yellow Thunder Maloo R8 15th Anniversary
• GTO LE
• Signature Coupé
• Bahrain One-Make Racing Series Clubsport
• Clubsport Dealer Team Spec
• Clubsport-R
• Holden Racing Team Edition Clubsport
• Toll HSV Dealer Team Clubsport
• Mark Skaife Signature Edition Senator
• Clubsport R8 20th Anniversary Edition
• Greg Murphy Edition Clubsport
• VXR Nurburgring Edition
• W427

Concept cars

• HRT Maloo Ute - Based on the VX HSV Maloo, it was fitted with a new bodykit featuring significantly flared wheel arches to accommodate wider track and 20-inch wheels. The roof was lowered and modifications made to the suspension to produce a "ground hugging" stance. The ute was powered by a LS6 V8 stroked to 6.2 litres (producing 476 PS (350 kW; 469 bhp)) with exhaust exiting from the side.[10]
• HRT 427 - Unveiled at the 2002 Sydney Motor Show, the HRT (Holden Racing Team) 427 was loosely based on the Holden Monaro bodyshell. The MacPherson strut front suspension was replaced by an aluminium double A-arm setup with adjustable dampers. A weight reduction program was enacted which included the fitment of a carbon fibre bonnet and magnesium wheels. A 7.0 litre (427ci) V8 from the Corvette C5-R was installed (coupled to a T-56 M12 six-speed transmission), hence the name.[11][12]
  Originally intended to be put into production as competition against vehicles such as the Porsche 911 GT2, the idea was abandoned due to an unworkable business case based on the original production targets. It was to be the quickest ever (up to that time) HSV with a reported top speed of 299 km/h (185 mph). Only 2 were ever built with a reported 571 PS (420 kW; 563 bhp) and 780 nm of torque.[13]
• GTS-R - Alternatively written as GTSR or GTS/R, this concept was unveiled in 2004 and based on the Monaro bodyshell. Similarities could be drawn with the HRT 427, however this model was never intended for road-use and instead was under consideration to create a one-make racing series. A more aggressive appearance was achieved through the use of a large front airdam, xenon headlights, LED rear lights, active carbon fiber rear spoiler and rear diffuser. The GTS-R was powered by a modified version of the LS2 producing 455 PS (335 kW; 449 bhp). Other features included carbon ceramic disc brakes, rollcage, side-exiting exhausts and 19-inch ROH alloy wheels.[14]

Engines

Chevrolet 6.2-litre V8 LS3

• Power: 431 PS (317 kW; 425 bhp) (E series)
• Torque: 550N•m(E series)

This engine debuted in the E series. It is a GM built LS3 V8 customized for HSV's usage. It also features cylinder deactivation technology to conserve fuel.

Chevrolet 6.0-litre V8 LS2

• Power: 404 PS (297 kW; 398 bhp) @ 6000 rpm(Z series), 417 PS (307 kW; 412 bhp)(E series)
• Torque: 530 N•m @ 4400 rpm(Z series), 550N•m(E series)

This engine debuted in the Z series. It is a GM built LS2 V8 customized for HSV's usage. One of the main reasons that this engine was used is that the LS1 V8 does not meet ADR 79/01 (Euro III) emissions regulations. This new engine also has connections to the L76 6.0 Litre used in the VZ and VE Holden Commodores.

Chevrolet 5.7-litre V8 LS1

• Power: 340 PS (250 kW; 335 bhp)(VTII), 347 PS (255 kW; 342 bhp)W(VX), 352 PS (260 kW; 349 bhp)(Y series), 367 PS (270 kW; 362 bhp)(AWD models), 387 PS (285 kW; 382 bhp)(YII series)
• Torque: 473 N•m(VTII), 475 N•m(VX), 475 N•m(Y series), 510 N•m(YII series)

This motor started its debut in the VTII series of HSV sedans. It produced 340 PS (250 kW; 335 bhp) - 41 PS (30 kW; 40 bhp) more than HSV's previous "Stroker" 5.7 V8 used in the VT. It was a slightly de-tuned version, with 10 PS (7 kW; 9 bhp) less than when it was in the two-door sports body of the Corvette. Continuous modifications were made to the LS1 engine throughout its lifetime, reaching 387 PS (285 kW; 382 bhp) in the YII series, just 20 PS (15 kW; 20 bhp) under the 408 PS (300 kW; 402 bhp) GTS. AWD models such as the Coupé4 retained a similar configuration to other YII series models but were fitted with a more restrictive exhaust system, reducing power to 367 PS (270 kW; 362 bhp). The LS1 was phased out for the new 6.0 litre LS2 in the Z Series. However, it was still used in the AWD models of the Z series.

Chevrolet 5.7-litre V8 LS1 (C4B)

• Power: 402 PS (300 kW; 408 bhp) @ 6000 rpm*Torque: 510 N•m @ 4800 rpmA modified version of the LS1 enhanced by Callaway Cars Incorporated, this engine was used on the VTII, VX and Y series of GTS models as well as the SV300. Differences from the LS1 included ported cylinder heads, larger throttle body, revised camshaft, remapped ECU, titanium valve spring retainers, upgraded valve springs and valves. The compression ratio was also lowered slightly to 9.95:1 and the engine ran MAFless. In HSV models, this engine was used with a higher than standard 3.91:1 final drive ratio.

HSV 5.7-litre 'Stroker' V8

• Power: 292 PS (215 kW; 288 bhp) @ 4800 rpm(VR-VS), 299 PS (220 kW; 295 bhp)(VT)
• Torque: 475 N•m @ 3600 rpmThis motor had its debut in the VR series of HSV sedans. It was an expanded version of the 5.0 litre and was originally available on the flagship VR 215i Senator and GTS. A Tremec T-56 six-speed manual gearbox option exclusive to this engine was introduced as the then current Borg-Warner T-5 5-speed could not reliably handle the prodigious amounts of torque. The GTS-R had the blueprint option to produce more power at around 313 PS (230 kW; 308 bhp). The 215i engine was also available on the Grange long wheel base model. Its last appearance was in the VT GTS(Series 1). The LS1 replaced it in the VTII series.

Holden 5.0-litre V8

• Power: 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) @ 5200 rpm(VL), 288 PS (215 kW; 292 bhp) (VN Group A SS), 272PS (200 kW; 268 bhp) (VN-VP), 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) @ 4800 rpm(VN-VP), 252 PS (185 kW; 248 bhp)(VR-VS), 265 PS (195 kW; 261 bhp)(VT)
• Torque: 380 N•m @ 4000 rpm(VL), 411 N•m(VN Group A SS), 410 N•m @ 3600 rpm(VN-VP), 400 N•m @ 3600 rpm(VN-VS), 430 N•m @ 3600 rpm(VT)

This engine for HSV was available in 2 guises. The twin throttle bodied versions designed for racing use were available in the VL and VN Group A cars from 1988 and 1990 respectively. For the majority of HSV sedans using this capacity motor, the engines were modified versions of the standard EFI Holden V8. Note that there was also a VP equipped Clubsport 5000i that used the remaining 4 bolt main Group A blocks with SV5000 red motor ancillaries. The LS1 replaced it in the VTII series.

• Additionally:

1. A non-EFI version was fitted to the VL Calais SV88, producing 185 PS (136 kW; 182 bhp) @ 4400 rpm and 355 nm @ 3200 rpm.
2. The VL SS Group A SV Commodore was the first Holden V8 to feature Electronic Fuel Injection.

HSV 3.8-litre supercharged V6

• Power: 245 PS (180 kW; 241 bhp) @ 5000 rpm*Torque: 380 N•m @ 3200 rpmAvailable on the VT and VX series HSV XU6, this engine is a modified version of Holden's supercharged V6 with upgraded air intake and exhaust to boost power from the standard 232 PS (171 kW; 229 bhp). Due to the popularity and superior performance of Ford's I6T, this model was removed from the line-up after the VX series.

OPC 2.0-litre Ecotec-4 Turbo

• Power: 241 PS (177 kW; 237 bhp) @ 5600 rpm*Torque: 320 N•m @ 2400 rpmThis 4-cylinder engine is used in the HSV VXR, a model based on the Vauxhall Astra VXR/Opel Astra OPC.

This model has received some criticism, due to the decision to use a turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, instead of opting for a larger engine, which would have followed the HSV philosophy of 'bigger is better'.

V8 supercars

HSV threw their sponsorship behind the team formerly known as the Kmart Racing Team after the retail giant withdrew their sponsorship. The team adopted HSV Dealer Team (HSVDT) as their new name. With Garth Tander and Rick Kelly driving the two cars, the newly renamed team struggled in its first few outings in 2005, they found form later in the season, and from round 1 led the 2006 Championship to victory. Rick Kelly won the 2006 series followed by Craig Lowndes. Tander who finished the season in 4th spot after having led the Championship until Round 7 after a driver swap program with HRT (The Toll HSVDT and the HRT are "grouped" due to sharing data and engineering services to each other via Walkinshaw Performance) during the endurance races resulted in Garth's DNF in both endurance races, destroying his championship hopes and dreams. In 2007, Tander and Kelly won 17 races between them out of a possible 37, with Tander winning 15 of them and four round wins, winning the championship along the way. HSVDT also won their 2nd Teams Championship in succession.

HSV also sponsor the Holden Racing Team (HRT), although this operation is now formally owned by the team's lead driver and former Australian Touring Car Champion, Mark Skaife. Garth Tander now drives the second HRT Commodore.

HSV also sponsor Tasman Motorsport with Jason Richards and Greg Murphy. They also sponsor GMAC Racing of Tony D'Alberto in the Fujitsu V8 Series.

Exports

• The Y II and Z series GTO Coupe were exported to the UK as the Vauxhall Monaro VXR. They used the 387 PS (285 kW; 382 bhp) LS1 and 405 PS (298 kW; 400 bhp) LS2 engines respectively. The Coupé's donor car, the Holden Monaro was exported to various markets, including the Middle East (as the Chevrolet Lumina) and the USA (as the Pontiac GTO)
• E-Series Clubsport R8's are to be exported to the UK as a Vauxhall VXR8. This car has the standard 6 litre LS2 417 PS (307 kW; 412 bhp) and 550nm but a Supercharger kit, that is not Available in Australia, is optional, having around 560 PS (412 kW; 553 bhp).
• E-Series Clubsport R8 are exported to the Middle East as the CR8 from Chevrolet Special Vehicles (CSV).

External Links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to:

Holden Special Vehicles

• Holden Special Vehicles Official Homepage
• Guinness World Record for Fastest Production Pickup Truck

News & References

• New HSV Lineup Reveals The Pontiac That Could Have Been
• Aussie Envy: HSV E Series 2 lineup unveiled
• HSV E-Series 2 (E2) Facelifted Range Revealed for Australia