Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL
The 'Walkinshaw' Batmobile: HSV's wild, wind-tunnel-tested homologation hero.
- Power
- 241 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.5 s
- Top speed
- 143 mph
- Est. value
- $140k–$250k
About the Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL
The VL SS Group A SV was the debut model from Holden Special Vehicles (HSV), created to homologate the Commodore for Group A touring car racing. Developed in collaboration with Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR), its distinctive 'Panorama Silver' paint and aggressive aerodynamic body kit were designed to reduce drag by 25%. It marked a significant technical milestone as the first Holden V8 to feature electronic fuel injection, utilizing a sophisticated twin-throttle body intake. Despite a polarising reception at launch that earned it the nickname 'Plastic Pig', it has become one of Australia's most coveted collector cars.
Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL specs
The Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL produces 241 bhp (180 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h).
| Make | Holden |
|---|---|
| Model | Commodore SS Group A SV |
| Generation | VB-VL |
| Trim | 4.9 V8 |
| Years | 1988 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Australia |
| Production | About 750 built |
| Engine | 4.9-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,987 cc (5.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 241 bhp (180 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.5 s |
| Top speed | 143 mph (230 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,340 kg (2,954 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 180 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL worth?
A typical Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL is estimated to be worth $140,000 – $250,000 (about £104,000 – £186,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL rarity in CarSpot
The Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL is a Legendary card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 92 out of 100. Flagship models and limited runs, typically worth £250,000 or more. A Legendary card is worth 160 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Holden Commodore SS Group A SV VB-VL fun facts
- The car's unique Panorama Silver paint was named after the Mount Panorama Circuit, home of the Bathurst 1000.
- Though 500 units were required for homologation, demand led to a total production of 750, though the final 250 were notoriously difficult for dealers to sell at the time.
- The radical body kit was so extensive that it actually made the car narrower than a standard VL Commodore due to the way the side skirts were integrated.
