Holden VR Commodore - A Major Departure

Here is the latest episode in the Holden Commodore Auto History Series. Check out the playlist to watch the history on all the Commodore models plus much more! The VR was a major and much improved update for Holden. Please be sure to hit the 👍Like button as it really helps the channel. Don’t want to miss an episode? Hit the Subscribe button and you’ll be notified of new episodes as they are released. 👍

[@markbehr88]

Here is the latest episode in my Holden Commodore Auto History Series - the VR. The VR was a major update that really made the Commodore look much more modern. Please be sure to give the episode a 👍Like as it really helps the channel. To ensure you don’t miss an episode, hit the Subscribe button, plus check out the other episodes on the playlist. Thanks for watching. 👍

[@Eric-kn4yn]

1994 about the time that western nations started offshoring manufacturing to china then a undeveloped economy we know how that ended up

[@markbehr88]

@ So true 🫣

[@Eric-kn4yn]

​​​@@markbehr88 did holden get wider rear wheel track with engineering solution or a simple offset for wheels fix 40mm would be doable ?

[@markbehr88]

@ Suspension was modified too. 👍

[@commodorenut]

The IRS rear had minor revisions to the hub area to widen the track a little. Live axle was already widened in VN and carried through into the VR. The front received quite substantial changes, notably a whole new strut design (without the stub axle like VB-VP) that continued through to VZ, new cast lower control arms, which placed the hubs out further, and a new knuckle design that carried sealed front wheel bearings/hubs (where you replace the whole hub). The top of the strut was located much further back (increasing caster from practically zero to around 7 degrees, vastly improving the steering feel and self-centering. The strut tops also moved outwards, in line with the track, to maintain the correct camber angles during suspension movement. Standard power steering, which went across the board early in the VN model, is what made the increased caster angle possible (that amount of caster makes the steering way heavier).

[@davegeros9314]

The most ascetically pleasing Commodore in me umble opinion.

[@markbehr88]

@@davegeros9314 👍

[@thelandofnod123]

@@davegeros9314 Between the VR/VS and the VL to me.

[@davehad-enough2369]

Thank you Mark for this article on one of my favourite model Holdens. The VR was a great car and well and truly worthy of it's Wheels Car of the Year title for 1993. The VR , as was the VS, was just the right size for Australia. Lighter than their replacements, friendly to drive and park and cheap to service in comparison to similar vehicles of the day. At that time I was working in the admin for a major bank and we purchased about 30 VRs at run-out to replace ageing Magnas and Nissans. The only complaint - the drivers were now getting regular speeding tickets. Thanks again.

[@markbehr88]

@@davehad-enough2369 Thanks. Glad you enjoyed it. 👍

[@OLDS98]

Thank you Mark. The 3800 V6 was in full use in Australia it seems. The American GM version was 170 hp until the Series II 3800 rated at 205 hp starting in 1995 model year. This car was nicely styled it seems. I keep forgetting it was rear drive where most things were front wheel drive in the United States. The front end styling is very Oldsmobile/Pontiac in appearance. I have heard and seen the Toyota Lexcen. Thank you for sharing the images of that the Holden Apollo(Toyota Camry) The HSV range was getting interesting as well the Commodore range too.

[@markbehr88]

@@OLDS98 Thanks Olds98. The engine receives a big upgrade in the next model. Yes. Front has GM styling themes. 👍

[@Flaming-Hedgehog]

I was running ex cop VR's as taxis back in it's day, we hammered them mercilessly 24/7/365 and they just kept on going. The most reliable abuse soaking car I've ever experienced. Big soft spot for these.

[@markbehr88]

@@Flaming-Hedgehog Yes. Good cars. 👍

[@darrylcampbell4411]

Too right Bro. I turn the key on my 1994 VR and she kicks into life everyrime no matter how long shes been sitting. Great cars..

[@jamesfrench7299]

I can recall catching a VR sedan cab in Sydney’s north once with Premier Cabs. I could tell it was a privately run as opposed to taxi base cab as it had sheepskin seat covers in the rear and the driver was nice and professional who was a 30 something Mediterranean Aussie.

[@markbehr88]

👍

[@markbehr88]

👍

[@George_Soros_Globalist]

Thanks Mark. The VR acclaim hub caps were the best looking hub caps ever made, i had a set on my lowered white VK Calais.

[@markbehr88]

Yes, they were nice! 👍

[@jimpikoulis6726]

Also looked good on a slammed Gemini

[@markbehr88]

@ 😀👍

[@George_Soros_Globalist]

@@jimpikoulis6726 yeah they looked great on so many other Holdens. If you owned an acclaim back then you would definitely have had them stolen, they were being pinched everywhere.

[@George_Soros_Globalist]

@@jimpikoulis6726 the wheels I had on my TF Gemini were the chrome dipped version of the Camira/gem SL/E rims. Look like the VH SL/E rims but smaller 😀

[@davidstaines5440]

In my opinion it was the best looking commodore made to that point in time. Much better then the vp or the Vn.

[@markbehr88]

@@davidstaines5440 Yes. Fair enough. 👍

[@bosscocky7888]

No way. VR was the biggest dud model out there!

[@markbehr88]

Not true. 🧐

[@iwaswrongabouteveryhthing]

When l saw the VR/VS HSV as a kid with those wheels that go to 3 points i was blown away, i still think its one of the most beautiful cars and im a ford man

[@markbehr88]

Fair enough. 👍

[@davidwood9966]

KZbin is one of the services where I give them their money, allows screen off audio, and I’m happy to report that your videos work well as a podcast too :)

[@markbehr88]

Thanks for the tip. Good to hear that the videos work well as podcasts.👍

[@maxrockatanksyOG]

For what it was, the 3.8 Buick was a great little motor. I had a VR sedan mixed in with my Ford "fleet" (bought it for my parents to run a round in). When i got it back, i built a 4lt stroker, twin turbo in that VR; punched out a lazy 500hp but it was a great cruiser, lowered on VT SS rims. Did a Calais dash conversion (with trip computer) and added the fuel tank from a VQ Stato. I do miss that car, one of my favourites! A friends' dad, when these were new, ordered a brand new VR V8 Executive, it was dark blue in colour, so have always had a VR sof spot

[@markbehr88]

Very cool. I drove a few when I was at Holden but then went to NZ and drove mainly Vectras ( the earlier model not sold in Australia). Did drive a nice red SS when I was there. 👍

[@willhooke]

Were the turbos side mounted? Like a 300zx Or in front of the engine, like a Grand National? Thank you for your time

[@jackabubba]

My white VR II Berlina V6 was the love of my life for many years!

[@markbehr88]

@@jackabubba Nice one. 👍

[@jasonfields2793]

And an absolute beauty of a car too

[@markbehr88]

👍

[@jamied1579]

I always liked the VR. I thought it was the coolest looking Commodore up to that point... I drove a VR taxi for a couple of years and loved it. Comfortable and responsive (even running on LPG)...

[@markbehr88]

@@jamied1579 Yes. A good model. 👍

[@sp19822]

@@jamied1579 Holden did a good factory approved dual fuel system(dealer fitted) for this model. Fully warranted by Holden.

[@jamied1579]

@@sp19822 I don't know if it used that LPG system or not, but it still drove really well.

[@michaelhart5886]

I had a VR 5.0 v8 for a while. Fun thing that sounded great. Such a good cruising highway car. Vr and Vs were just right

[@markbehr88]

Yes, I had Berlina 5 litre company cars in VR and VS. Very nice. 👍

[@BlairRedington-jp4jn]

Ive got a vr ute the 3.8 is so reliable easy to maintain brilliant engine best 6 gm ever produced

[@markbehr88]

@@BlairRedington-jp4jn Good cars. 👍

[@sp19822]

We had a VR Executive from new in 1994(1993 plated with a discount) which we ran for 10 years and around 127,000km. Was a generally very reliable car, one of the best, even though we had minor issues with easy fixes (Water pump, alternator regulator, fuel pump and fan resistor after nearly 10 years). It was one of the earlier ones built before the paint process changed and the silver colour faded badly in it's last years. Aircon was great too as well as the Eurovox OEM radio/cassette, bloody good sound. Holden dealer service most of it's life as Dad played golf with a senior service employee at the dealership (he was in the same golf club). It took us on a few family holidays(Warrnambool twice, Swan Hill, Mansfield/Mt Buller as got us there and back without hassle and many visits to family in regional areas (did my uncle's terrible almost vertical unsealed potholed driveway many times without an issue) Was traded on a VY and that was not as good, aircon was not as good.

[@markbehr88]

Would be nice to find a mint one again? 🤔👍

[@sp19822]

@markbehr88 That would be quite difficult now, many found their way to uncaring young drivers.

[@darrylcampbell4411]

@@sp19822 Exactly why you should grab one whenever you can.. Everytime some Dickhead wrecks one ours become worth even more. As now theres one less out there...Think about it..

[@markbehr88]

True. 👍

[@markbehr88]

Yes. Preserve them. 👍

[@thelandofnod123]

Actually saw a VR V8 it’s at the local Bunnings today. Very well looked after and looked very original.

[@markbehr88]

@@thelandofnod123 Nice Spotto. 👍

[@Seiskid]

I had a VR acclaim. I loved it at the time. It was a nice looking car. I remember being scared about reliability and the complexity of working on a car with a injection system. The irony, way better than carburetor, I'd give anything to have an injection system that reliable, simple and serviceable on current cars now. The ABS was cool, though looking back it had a pretty slow cycle rate so you covered a lot of distance if it activated. Definitely under braked with the single piston front brakes. Handling and body flex was a tad loose, but overall is was a quiet, comfortable cruiser and a huge improvement over my previous holden. The worst manufacturing defect was the rear reflectors, every single car turned white after a few years in the sun. I painted mine with clear red paint.

[@markbehr88]

@@Seiskid Yes, those reflectors did fade badly. 👍

[@jamesfrench7299]

My KE Laser from 1989 has the uncommon EFI option and it jumps to life on cold mornings. Been very reliable if a little slow by today’s standards.

[@markbehr88]

@ very cool. 👍

[@terrybebbington3032]

Great video yet again, Mark. The VR/VS era was very good for Holden. 2 things to add, you omitted the Statesman & Caprice which for the first time was very much part of the Commodore line-up. Also the Toyota Lexcen was only sold with V6 auto, no V8 or manual options. Keep up the good work, as I said previously, the best & most accurate Aussie car videos on KZbin.

[@markbehr88]

Thanks. I’ll cover Statesman and Caprice separately as per what I have done with Falcon and Fairlane. 👍

[@Flaming-Hedgehog]

The Senator John Button Lexcen. What a debacle. Mark should do a story on how that muppet started the rot for Australian car manufacturing.

[@markbehr88]

@ I have covered it in some of the previous Commodore episodes. 👍

[@AphonenewNew]

Button seems to get the blame, personally I think lowering tarrifs on imported cars was the real start of the rot. ​@@Flaming-Hedgehog

[@Flaming-Hedgehog]

@@AphonenewNew Button gets the blame because he is to blame and has gotten off lightly due the passing of time, I cannot describe that piece of work here properly or YT will block me, read into the entire farce he created. It's called "The Button Plan" for a reason. The tariff debacle is what that stupid plan is all about. Thanks to Button "Rather than share locally assembled models with other manufacturers, Holden, Ford and Toyota decided to import fully built-up models from subsidiaries elsewhere in the world, mainly Europe and Japan." ".... leading to the end of manufacturing in Australia" - Wiki There's reasons the muppet resigned from the Senate before his term expired.

[@jamesfrench7299]

The completely new taillights are what struck me first when I saw one for the first time. They really went all out revising this body and did a good job modernising it in and out. The VP was a bit what were they thinking. One time I was sitting in my car outside a mechanic’s workshop when first a white VR came out and it made a very nice crisp exhaust bark, then a white VS sedan came out and it’s ecotec V6 sounded dull as dishwater in comparison and was devoid of character. The VT remedied that a bit.

[@markbehr88]

Quieter and more powerful but that is for the VS episode. 👍

[@jamesfrench7299]

@ Yes more power but they were trying to mimic a near silent luxury Japanese V6 and killed that joyous raspy sound, yet it was still coarse when you sent it but lacked the sporty soundtrack. Get into a VX and it sounded much nicer and smoother as well but slower off the mark from to the added heft.

[@markbehr88]

@ 👍

[@gashy1000]

Thanks Mark another great period for the Australian car industry, both Holden & Ford, very nice cars through this period even though the technology was creeping in, ABS, traction control, air bags and computer control increasing for the engine and transmissions. The last clip with the red commodore 16:30, the driver giving that car a bit of a work out. cheers, Andy in Adelaide.

[@markbehr88]

@@gashy1000 Thanks very much. 👍

[@IanMcCarthy-s1t]

Keep up good work Mark can't wait when you do the vx vu mode

[@markbehr88]

@@IanMcCarthy-s1t Thanks. 👍

[@petercrimson1979]

VR was so much better than VN VP. Styling wise looks great V6 was more smooth SS version was really nice to drive. Great video 👍

[@markbehr88]

@@petercrimson1979 Thanks. It was much more modern for sure. 👍

[@benglossop2603]

My father still has a VR. A December 1993 Executive. Just over 250,000 km and still going well. Still stock standard and in good original condition. Still drives well too

[@turbotheamericanstaffy]

That's cute. EFs were running 500000 to a million km. Even on LPG

[@benglossop2603]

@@turbotheamericanstaffy Yeah but its not a Taxi. Just somewhat seldom private use

[@markbehr88]

They are great cars. 👍

[@turbotheamericanstaffy]

@@benglossop2603 they were taxis too. Trust me. I drove on. Biggest pos ever

[@sp19822]

@@benglossop2603 Our VR was an October 1993 build,1st reg Feb 94.

[@kitemett]

Cool video, thanks. VR Executive was my first car.

[@markbehr88]

@@kitemett 👍

[@JimmyShields-z2h]

Definitely looking forward to VR history series, it was favourite model having own 3 VR, 5.0lt V8 Spack ute, 4 speed automatic, upgrade brakes, enhanced V8 with 220kw or 300hp output, 10.3lt per 100kms running on 98 octane. VR Berlina 3.8lt V6, 4 speed automatic, cold air intake n exhaust system, 8lts per 100kms this replace my VH SLX Commodore 3.3lt six as daily drive. Last VR acclaim series 2 with ABS, Airbags, IRS, 3.8lt V6, 4 speed automatic, this i brought for mum with 160,000kms other VR had similar kms I brought them. The VR was to replace family Kingswood 3.3lt six, 3 on tree, which mum save over 5k on fuel for the year, mum did over 330,000kms. The VR save fuel, i would travel from near Shepparton to Duɓbo using 2/3 tank, climate control was the best especially in winter, having cruise control was life changing.

[@markbehr88]

@@JimmyShields-z2h Yes. They were good cars. 👍

[@vxii4u]

In addition to the wider track, the strut tower shape was enlarged to increase +ve castor of the front suspension to improve handling.

[@markbehr88]

Thanks. Good info 👍

[@cameronalexander359]

Another awesome video essay Mark. ($100M sounds like an R&D tax write off to me.)

[@markbehr88]

@@cameronalexander359 Thanks. Yes, it would be these days. 👍

[@louiskats5116]

G'day Mark, Awesome video, my parents still own & my 86 year old father drives his VR Series II Berlina from time to time. Unfortunately the previous original Greek owner from Port Melbourne who parked it on the street had his rims stolen a while ago so it took the shine away from a beautiful burgundy coloured sedan. My dad hardly drives it gets hassled to sell it which I tell him to do it is good to average condition. My 20 year old nephew really wants as his first car. I call it a Common dore. Great video Cheers Louis Kats 👍

[@jimpikoulis6726]

There is nothing that sticky tape cannot fix... the Greeks

[@louiskats5116]

@@jimpikoulis6726 true

[@shaun30-3-mg9zs]

Hi Mark, i agree with what you said, it looks nothing like a Opel or Vauxhall I cant see if it looks like a Carlton or a Senator but it's that size of car. A lot of nice options and styles, I like the look of the Wagon which from the rear does look similar to the Vauxhall Carlton Estate/wagon but that's it. In all looks a nice decent big car and as I said be for a shame we didn't get this car, if we did it would have been badge as a Vauxhall. As always a great video on Australian car industry catch you soon take care

[@markbehr88]

Thanks Shaun. Yes, the Commodore was really evolving to be its own, unique car rather than a world car variant. As a result, it was more successful too. 👍

[@lancegraham7722]

If you could see some of the early design ideas for the vr, your head would spin. Some were totally horrendous, as was the vt , but that's later. If you Mark, can get some early pics and I do have them, that would be well worthy of posting. Another great episode and look forward to the vs.

[@markbehr88]

@@lancegraham7722 Thanks. You can email them to me at [e-mail] and I can include them in future episodes. 👍

[@darrylcampbell4411]

Thanks Mark.. I have a VR and VS commy. Awesome cars. Mine are both Berlinas.. My VS is Police speced with a chip and goes like a cut cat. Love em.. cheers Bro. From a Kiwi fan.

[@markbehr88]

Enjoy them! 👍

[@HockeyLive_BNE]

Great video as always Mark!

[@markbehr88]

Thanks, I appreciate it!👍

[@hieronymusbosch9421]

Those alloy wheels on the Berlina at 6.26 look great. Am going to put a set on my VS.

[@markbehr88]

@@hieronymusbosch9421 👍

[@andrewlawson2022]

Great content mate!

[@markbehr88]

@@andrewlawson2022 Thank you. 👍

[@bossdog1480]

I never owned one, but I heard the VR and VS models were extremely good.

[@markbehr88]

@@bossdog1480 Yes. Very good cars. 👍

[@mikewaters6980]

I remember seeing the first vr on the road and loved it. Looked like a touring car especially that aggressive front. Loved the partial leather/velour standard in Calais. Also last of Calais available in bright red. Loved those. The VR Berlina was the first Berlina to have most of the fruit of the Calais. I guess there was the Berlina LX of the Vp but that’s another upgrade. J

[@davidbusch8912]

I recall seeing my first VR driving into Byron Bay on holidays with my brother. We both remarked about how handsome the car looked, and it was only a humble white Executive or Acclaim.

[@markbehr88]

The VR was a big improvement, wasn’t it? 👍

[@commodorenut]

The LX was so popular in VP, that Holden decided to upgrade the regular VR Berlina to that level. It also helped that they now had an acclaim to position between the Exec & Berlina, so the added fruit in the Berlina helped with the hierarchy differentiation.

[@markbehr88]

@ Actually, the specification jump helped with the premium justification over Acclaim and Exec as you say, however, the LX was not a good seller at all. Very few were sold. I would estimate well under 10% of Berlina volume. The bigger influence would have been Fairmont and also the increased specifications of competitive imports. 👍

[@mikewaters6980]

@@commodorenut what was cool back then was the distinct model differentiation. Fast forward to the VF and between the ssv redline and Calais, I counted 3 small differences between them. Contrast back in the days colour coded bumpers meant you were a class above the average!

[@Angler233]

My first car was a 94 burgandy VR acclaim with replica VR hsv clubsport rims. Loved that car. Call me mad, it ended up with a reco transmission and motor. Sold it for $100 to a wrecker after 15 yrs.

[@markbehr88]

That’s a very low price? 😳

[@Krustophgaming]

Glad this video got suggested to me. My first commodore I bought was a 1994 VR Clubsport (sometime around 2003?) and I freaking loved it. Empire Red Metallic (Burgundy) in colour with silver trim. Unfortunatly lost it in a break up, and last i heard every panel on passenger side had a rather rough encounter with a concrete pillar in a parking garage. If I could find it again, id probably buy it back

[@markbehr88]

@@Krustophgaming Thanks very much. That’s a shame. If you are interested, please Subscribe and check out the Holden Commodore Auto History Playlist. 👍

[@Krustophgaming]

@markbehr88 already did mate! Cheers

[@markbehr88]

@ Cool 😎👍

[@a8nb462]

Great video Mark.....🏆🙏🏻

[@markbehr88]

Thank you. 👍

[@Paul-fx4hb]

When I was 18 in the early 2000s my first car was a 1972 Mercedes 280CE. I had friends who drove VR/VS Commodores and they had such responsive throttles and felt so fast and powerful compared to my old Benz. Later when I had a proper drive of my dad’s VS ute especially on the freeway I was surprised to find it just ran out of puff if you revved it or tried to overtake. My old Benz would just power off on the highway. Turns out it had 185hp from its old 2.8 straight 6 and the Holden had 174hp in the 3.8 V6. Now I drive a 1993 S320 and that feels like a spaceship compared to a VR/VS. I’m glad I never got one 😂

[@noelgibson5956]

I drove some kind of Mercedes that was my sister's wedding car. The lack of power in urban conditions was just astounding.......and rather bloody annoying! A fully laden Kenworth reversing up a hill with a flat tyre got off the line quicker! I'd rather instant, low down torque if it means I have to lose some urge up high. Most people drive around town most of the time, and that instant throttle response is safer and more predictable.......trust me!

[@markbehr88]

@@Paul-fx4hb You have to make sure you are comparing gross or net horsepower not gross versus net. The older cars quoted gross. 👍

[@timvanngman]

Informative vid. Keen to see one on the VS too. I had a 1996 series II VS Berlina (3.8L) that was a nice car. Only issue I had was aesthetic. The side mouldings had a thin silver and plastic sheet covering that was easily damaged and then looked crap.

[@markbehr88]

Thanks. The VS episode will be the next Commodore one. Before that there will be VG Valiant and ZK Fairlane. 👍

[@gregharvie3896]

Hi Mark, I had not realised that GMH/HSV actually made the VR Clubsport wagon, with only 77 sold examples, when I've ever seen one I had always thought that a dad had "cobbled it up in his shed", made from smashed sedan wheels spoilers front clip etc, however not so HSV just made a microscopic amount of them.

[@markbehr88]

@@gregharvie3896 Yes. Very rare. 👍

[@enduroboi6780]

There's one in Perth, dark green. Original owner from new

[@markbehr88]

Cool. 👍

[@commodorenut]

I found out in the mid 2000s that the guy who ordered my Brock wagon new also bought a VN HSV LE wagon, and replaced that with a VR Clubby wagon. His eldest son told me it was because he had 4 sons, and didn’t want to drive a van around. So each wagon had the 3rd row seat for the youngest to sit in. Certainly a much nicer option for a family of 6. Sadly, he never held onto any of the wagons, and was driving a small convertible Merc by the time I got to know him, as his kids had all left home.

[@UncleJoeLITE]

Thanks Mark, they did look more 'modern' than the equivalent Falcon. My Commodore experience ended with the VB until I drove my brother's VT S 5.0. Looking forward to that one.

[@markbehr88]

Yes, I was there in Product Planning for VT so that will be a big one. 👍

[@UncleJoeLITE]

@@markbehr88 Even better! I remember the line "it looks good at Rooty Hill RSL or the Opera House " & agreeing.

[@markbehr88]

@ Can’t argue with that. 👍

[@jasonschubert6828]

These are great, informative videos, Mark. Could I possibly suggest that you get some sort of mono mike however, you always sound like you are coming from different parts of the room per section!

[@markbehr88]

Noted! 👍

[@commodorenut]

But I like that effect 😊. It’s like you’re sitting round with a group of mates discussing cars. With headphones, it sounds like Mark is sitting right across from me.

[@timevans5966]

Great video, thank you. Wasn't there also a very, very long wheelbase version of the ute also available?

[@markbehr88]

@@timevans5966 Thanks very much. Those long wheelbase utes weren’t factory. I think they were done in Tamworth for the ambulance conversions. The same company did the Chev ambulance conversions. 👍

[@commodorenut]

The Jakab conversion - added 600mm to the Ute for the ambulance pod. They did them in VS, and possibly late VR too. I’ve only ever seen VS ones. Last one I spotted in Rutherglen back in October. A regular at Bendigo swap used to have one - the extra payload capacity was ideal there.

[@markbehr88]

@ 👍. I am pretty sure they did VR too as I remember them before I went to NZ and that was VR days. 👍

[@TheIVI-444]

Nice Video, The DLO flush window design was from the VN/VP and not a new design. All the tail lights light up in both series 1 & 2

[@markbehr88]

@@TheIVI-444 Incorrect. The area behind the rear doors, rear quarter and C pillar were new. 👍

[@TheIVI-444]

@@markbehr88 yes the 4th window was redesigned for the C pillar only, but your video refers and circles all side windows which have the same flush glass design of the VN onwards and not new to the VR..

[@markbehr88]

@ That is still the DLO. I think you are making a pedantic comment, so best to leave it there. 👍

[@Anon-fv9ee]

Hi Mark. Back in late 94 Dad bought a VR Acclaim - the new family car. Around 95 or so I read a story in the paper that Holden secretly installed a “black box” similar to an aircraft FDR. Ostensibly this was to record diagnostics in the event of a crash. Excitedly, I felt around under the driver’s seat and found it!! Not sure if this started with the VP or new to the VR. The car is long gone, but I’d love to know your thoughts on this. Excellent video, cheers!

[@markbehr88]

@@Anon-fv9ee Probably something Laurie Sparke pushed for as he was our Safety guru. I think it was VR on and not the earlier cars. 👍

[@commodorenut]

I’ve stripped, rebuilt and done conversions on more than a handful of VR & VS over the years, and still own a VS2 I’ve had for some 25 years. None of them had any such black box. Nor did any of the hundreds of cars that I ratted the strut sheets from in wrecking yards over the years. I’ve even stripped 5 of them down to a bare shell - removing every last clip and wire. There’s no wiring running there, except on the Caprice, for the seat loom. Any such “device” would be part of the ECU/PCM, as all the data that would need to be logged routes into there (speed, throttle position etc). But it won’t until the later CAN systems in the 21st century that all the required data became available via CANBUS signals. By then, you also had traction & stability system that also fed data into the CAN data stream, including things like steering wheel angle (VE onwards) yaw position (VY onwards) etc.

[@markbehr88]

@ Could be in the ECM as I know that extensive data was collected and Laurie Sparke, who ran the safety engineering dept for Holden and was a public face for the media on the subject, actually arranged with insurance companies to secure the wrecks of Commodores where the airbag was deployed so, together with Monash University, they could analyse real world performance of the safety equipment. 👍

[@commodorenut]

@@markbehr88 I remember back in the day the insurance companies were interested in the cost analysis of the airbag vs the reduced injuries vs the cost to replace. It was new technology. People also (falsely) feared airbags. The module that triggered the airbag in the VR (and VS) was quite basic - not like the modern systems with dual-stage airbags and multiple sensors all over the cars - but the deformation in the mechanism (which is what they used to determine if it was a hard enough impact to trigger) would give clues as to the impact forces, and therefore could help calculate impact speeds. I could see them being very sought after by researchers. These modules are a silver (metal) box, located under the console. The pre-BCM VQs had an interesting central locking control module - the one with “Kiekert” written on it (which is the brand, from Europe). It has a ball in a holder (like inertia reel seatbelts) that if impacted hard enough, would trigger the unlock command for the central locking. I could see that being a safety initiative too, but they never really spruiked it. These central locking control modules were black plastic, but mounted on the kick panel above the ECM, and were superseded by BCMs.

[@markbehr88]

@ Interestingly, as part of our sales training, we were told the Falcons had the inferior ballbearing type switch for the airbag. Maybe that is why it wasn’t spruiked in the Statesman? 🤔👍

[@jimpikoulis6726]

Agree Mark... A major departure from Melbourne Airport 🛫

[@markbehr88]

@@jimpikoulis6726 🤔

[@jimpikoulis6726]

@@markbehr88 😃😃

[@markbehr88]

👍

[@ryan8488]

Great info

[@markbehr88]

Thanks very much. Check out the VB to VP Commodore episodes too 👍

[@rowdy2146]

I had the pleasure of driving these cars when they were still new. A friend of a friend had a VR exec company car and it felt really punchy even with 4 people in the car. I also drove new VT and VS wagons. The VS wagons felt quicker than the VT ones.

[@Luke-PlanesTrainsDogsnCars]

I remember a motoring journalist at the time of the VR described the car as a well cut men's suit where the buttons didn't quite match. With the C pillar treatment, rear taillight and the boot rubbers showing on a white car, I would have to agree.

[@markbehr88]

@@Luke-PlanesTrainsDogsnCars I never really noticed that? I had quite a few as company cars. 👍

[@Luke-PlanesTrainsDogsnCars]

@@markbehr88 It's not really a big deal but see the rear white view >>1995 Holden Commodore BT1 VR Automatic Sedan

[@markbehr88]

@ Wouldn’t stop me. Those things can be massaged or buy a dark colour! 😀👍

[@Luke-PlanesTrainsDogsnCars]

@ ...but you like everything😄😆

[@markbehr88]

I’m very particular but not about stuff like that. 👍

[@Eric-kn4yn]

Alloy wheels always a good option more than appearance for your vehcile.

[@markbehr88]

@@Eric-kn4yn For sure. 👍

[@AphonenewNew]

The middle looked like a VN... cause it was of course! This was typical of Ford and Holden, the middle section of the car usually stayed the same in the same generation, with different front and rear end treatments.

[@markbehr88]

@@AphonenewNew Well, it is based on a local not global market. Many European cars kept body shells for 10 plus years. 👍

[@michaelcalder9089]

Always chuckle at the fact that a decade later the ford Barra motor 6 in stock form put out 185kw!

[@markbehr88]

@@michaelcalder9089 Sure and a myriad of 4 cylinder cars probably do too. That’s technology. 👍

[@mickvonbornemann3824]

Gez you could get them on Historic Rego in NSW. $110 for the 1st year, including 3rd party personal insurance, & about half that every following year.

[@markbehr88]

@@mickvonbornemann3824 Yes, I have quite a few cars on Club rego. 👍

[@leakyrexa1060]

Hey mate i really enjoyed this are you planning to do the falcons too?

[@markbehr88]

@@leakyrexa1060 Thanks. I have done all the Falcons, plus have started Fairlane and Valiant. Go to the Playlists to see them. 👍

[@leakyrexa1060]

@@markbehr88 hey mate been watching the falcons love these videos so much so informative and good enthusiasm commodores and falcons are my favorite cars of all time so it's really nice to have these and will come back for rewatches

[@markbehr88]

@ Fantastic. Thanks. You may like the Fairlane and Valiant ones too as they often refer to the competition of the time. 👍

[@jamesforge8107]

Nice. Wasn’t there a HSV SS too? I didn’t believe it but a mate had one back in 1996. VR SS but with the 185kw engine, HSV badges, the same 16” wheels as the Clubsport wagon in your picture and a HSV build plate. It was more than a Holden SS with the 185 engine. Basically a similar spec to the VS HSV Manta but in VR form.

[@markbehr88]

Just the XX1 engine upgrade available on all Holden V8s. 👍

[@commodorenut]

The 16” HSV Family wheels and the 185 engine were both available on the HSV enhanced packages. They also had a red, silver & black rectangular resin HSV “performance enhanced V8” badge on the lower RH corner of the boot. Each HSV Enhanced car got a HSV build plate and number, so they are easy to confirm. Most of the time it was an SS, Calais or LWB model that was enhanced, but I have found an exec 5L with the 185 engine and a build plate. I have an enhanced VS2 Calais with a build plate (and the compendium). It had several things done to it - 185, wheels, level ride rear suspension, boot spoiler and LSD. All noted on the HSV paperwork. It also has “HSV Enhanced VS” in place of the Calais badge on the dash. The Holden badges on the exterior of enhanced cars all remained in place, although I’m sure many owners swapped them.

[@christolois9705]

Purchased a VR Acclaim new in 1993 as a family car. Built just before GMH opened its new paint plant so it was never as nicely finished as the later VRs built from 1994. Good smooth riding powerful cruiser with IRS and single airbag (to give the driver a chance in a prang. No such chance offered for the front passenger until the VS model.) Interiors were a bit of a let down though with Holden’s huge instrument cluster gauges and acres of hard plastic trim. It was hard to keep it looking nice after a few years. Our 2002 VX Berlina was light years ahead of the VR with its much better design and its delightful high revving 5.7 litre LS1.

[@markbehr88]

The VX Berlina was a good upgrade. 👍

[@sp19822]

@christolois9705 Our October 1993 Executive had the old paint (Dove Silver which carried over from the VP), and it was good early on, but faded badly in its later years. A friend bought a 1994 VR Berlina second hand in 1997 and had the newer paint(July 94 build), and it was a better finish.The then three year old Berlina was a good buy at a reasonable price (low 20's if I remember correctly) with about 50,000km and only the three month statutory warranty.

[@markbehr88]

@ Yes, the new paint shop was much better. Dove Silver was a nice colour. It had a little bit of mauve or blue in it. 👍

[@richardayrton3608]

Hi Mark, just wondering with your vast knowledge of all things Aussie made could you please do an episode or two on the longest production runs Ford Holden. Things that pop into my mind, life of the Holden red 6 from EH to VK with all its variants, the Aussie V8. VB-VL body and the changes of that floor pan to VN that ended in VS. I was thinking the other day that both brands got a great many years out of basically the same thing with small tweaks.

[@markbehr88]

@@richardayrton3608 Thanks. I do try to include some of that information in the various episodes. I have got my work cut out for me just covering the various models - where I do three simultaneously. It may be a possibility down the track. 👍

[@richardayrton3608]

@@markbehr88Thanks Mark I find it interesting how long with small changes all the brands managed squeeze out of products.

[@markbehr88]

@ Yes, with our small market we had to get economies of scale over time. 👍

[@jamesgovett3225]

After many years of owning Ford Falcons and unfortunately having a very unsatisfactory time with my then last one in the late 1980’s an XF S pack ute due to swathe of reliability issues I then vowed I wouldn’t own another Falcon so finally sold it and bought a new Holden VG S pack ute ( the Ute was not named the VN) with the Buick 3.8 V6 and auto interesting the S utes had the LSD but not the sedans, and turned out to have good performance due no doubt to its good power to weight at least I thought so anyway, I did improve no end with slightly lower king springs and Bilstein dampers all round and with my secret hessian bag spread above the axle in the tub full of sand boy could it corner! Anyhow for a few logistical reasons due to family I traded it in on a 2 year old Anthracite VR SS Commodore that had the 185i HSV enhanced Holden V8 and what a magic car that was and apart from springs and a set of Konis it was stock but I really loved that car and was like a lot of my earlier Fords a great highway car! I should have kept it, I’m kicking myself now but I rejoined the Ford camp again with a new FG XR-6 and after over 15 years I still have it as there is really nothing around that can replace this rear wheel drive car for the price 👍

[@markbehr88]

Yes, they were great cars. 👍

[@justicebroker2271]

My favourite era of V8 supercars were the VR/VS vs EF/EL Aussie cars. I was a Nissan Skaife fan before they killed the variety of group A.

[@markbehr88]

👍

[@noelgibson5956]

As a sedan, they were never my cup of tea. The rear end just didn't look right. The dashboard was an improvement. The VR Statesman and Caprice were a huge improvement, though! Finally some bling and styling separation from the cheaper variants. I watched in delight as Holden sailed thru the 90's enjoying great success after the shocking run they had in the 80's.

[@richoman3400]

Yep I've had my VS wagon for 11 years now, all I did was put a worked 5L in it, it's been a great car I dunno why they get talked down

[@markbehr88]

@@richoman3400 very cool 👍

[@willhooke]

Was the VR ride and handling much better than the VP? Did the V6 3.8 get smoother or was that moreso with the VS?

[@davidbusch8912]

The VS 3.8 because smoother with the introduction of ecotec revisions.

[@markbehr88]

Yes, the wider track was noticeable for sure. 👍

[@willhooke]

@@davidbusch8912 thank you 👍🏻 so the smoothness happened with going 'ecotec' as well as 17 more kw + 9 more nm... Wonder what Holden did? 🤔 Also @markbehr88

[@commodorenut]

Handling was vastly improved - the increased castor gave the front a lot more grip on tighter corners, but had an even better plus side. The high speed twitchiness of the VN made way for a stable cruise, with much more responsive steering, and stronger self centering. The V6 was only slightly changed over the VP, and if you had driven a VP for a while you could tell the VR was slightly smoother, but it certainly wasn’t the very noticeable improvement that the VS was over the VR.

[@nedbeaty72]

I've had 2 VR Berlina's, a wagon and a sedan, had no problems with them aside from the fuel pump, went out in both cars at 130K

[@markbehr88]

@@nedbeaty72 Yes, good cars and that is a relatively simple fix. Should last more than 130k though. 👍

[@Eric-kn4yn]

Flared guards virtualy disappeared compared to early commodores

[@markbehr88]

Flared guards compared to VN and VP. 👍

[@Eric-kn4yn]

​@@markbehr88VN flared guards look excessive what where they thinking

[@markbehr88]

They were thinking they needed a wider track - which they did. 👍

[@Eric-kn4yn]

​​ yes wider track but without VN excessive flare on guards that took on A9X proportions

[@markbehr88]

@ It was the VE that had the massive flares. 👍

[@pauljcampbell2997]

I always thought the rear was a little odd. The tail lights were a little high, and it left too much gap between them and the bumper. But, that's just my opinion!

[@markbehr88]

@@pauljcampbell2997 Fair enough. 👍

[@whybother-q9q]

If VT was a knockout blow against falcon VR was a gut punch.

[@markbehr88]

Although EF and EL sold well. 👍

[@Low760]

The dlo is the same as the vn vp though? The doors interchange.

[@markbehr88]

@@Low760 The DLO includes the area behind the rear doors, rear quarter window and C pillar. All different. 👍

[@Low760]

@markbehr88 The rear window and quarter glass being the same between vn-vs says otherwise to me? I've never noticed a difference between a VR and VP. Ed to el yes.

[@markbehr88]

@ Rear quarter side glass os different as is c pillar. 👍

[@anthonyfletcher9062]

Did the enhanced hsv versions start in the Vr series?

[@markbehr88]

@@anthonyfletcher9062 No, you could get those earlier. Check out my VN and VP episodes for more info. 👍

[@commodorenut]

VN had specific packs and escalating levels (like SV100, SV110 etc) and a huge array of individual options too. VP continued it, but dropped the packs and rationalised the options. VN & VP were the 180kw spec motor. VR & VS continued the enhanced range, with a small number of options (once you had ordered the XX1 185i motor). They all go HSV build numbers and plates. I would estimate close to 1000 of them in VR, and the same in VS. I have an early VS2 and it’s in the mid 500s range. VT didn’t get the HSV enhanced option, but you could get the 195 motor as a HBD option on them. Late VS3 Statesmans (the ones with the VT roller cam 5L) with the upgraded engine option box ticked got a HBD plate instead of a HSV one, and were no longer called HSV enhanced.

[@markbehr88]

👍👍

[@Eric-kn4yn]

Lexcen (at least an australian name )were assembled by toyota or holden where lexcens cheaper what were they thinking .

[@markbehr88]

Assembled by Holden on the same line. I think there were Toyota quality staff at the plant too. 🤔👍

[@turbotheamericanstaffy]

A fairer comparison would be to the EF Falcon, not ED. In 1994, the EF had airbags standard across the range. VR did not. Plus it was the most locally made car in the country. Not the Commodore. The Falcon's inline six was much more reliable and more powerful as well. The EF XR6 took the mantle from the slant six Charger for the fastest Aussie 6 cylinder quarter mile and easily kept up with the 5.0 SS. The Falcon interior was much easier on the eye and way more comfortable without the ridiculously wide transmission frame the VR carried over again from the VN. The Eurovox sound system in the Holden was terrible. The Holden did have a better exterior and better handling with it's IRS and had the upmarket performance sedan market all to themselves with HSV. They were both great Aussie cars and Falcon dominated sales for 13 years straight before Holden finally took back top spot.

[@noelgibson5956]

Charger had a Hemi.......265.

[@markbehr88]

@@turbotheamericanstaffy Yes, but at launch it was the ED that Ford fielded up against VR. 👍

[@Yt_channel_lol]

Rear end was inspired by Chevy Impala SS i think

[@markbehr88]

There was some similarity to my 1992 Chev Police car (see ep on channel). 👍

[@mickvonbornemann3824]

What’s the origin for that Asian market straight-6?

[@markbehr88]

I believe that is an Opel engine? 🤔

[@commodorenut]

That’s right Mark. It’s the Opel dual-ram.

[@markbehr88]

👍

[@patrickspader4062]

From memory the V6 had 149kw not 130 as stated in video

[@rowdy2146]

Thats the VS ecotec variant.

[@markbehr88]

@@patrickspader4062 No, it was 130 kW. 👍

[@markbehr88]

@@rowdy2146 👍

[@davemarriner8128]

Blue print motor, what model series?

[@trk1973]

The VS HSV GTSR had a blueprint motor option which cranked power up to around 230kW

[@markbehr88]

@@davemarriner8128 That is the VS GTS- R. 👍

[@markbehr88]

@@trk1973 Correct. 👍

[@davemarriner8128]

@ thank you

[@markbehr88]

👍

[@Aus-OpenBodybuilding]

I have a silver vr bt1❤

[@markbehr88]

@@Aus-OpenBodybuilding Very cool. 👍

[@Aus-OpenBodybuilding]

@markbehr88 Thanks mate i own a few. 91 vn berlina wagon 5L auto in astroid silver. 92 vp executive sedan 6cyl manual with irs in marenello red. 93 vr bt1 sedan 5L auto in silver. 2000 vt executive wagon 5.7 auto in white & 2007 ve ss manual sedan in nikle silver. Saving for a vf ss if the wife lets me. Cheers for your content its really good!

[@markbehr88]

@ Fantastic. Great collection. Once we get into VT and VX in particular, I used to be the Senior Product Planning for Holden for Large Cars, so will be able to share some cool info. 👍

[@thelandofnod123]

Next episode will see something yellow I think, I’m sure with the full accurate story of its existence.

[@markbehr88]

@@thelandofnod123 Yes, and its not a packet of Twisties! 😀👍

[@commodorenut]

Not a taxi either 😂😂

[@markbehr88]

@ 👍

[@thelandofnod123]

@@markbehr88 Man, I was hoping for Twisties. It’s like an existentialist hurdy gurdy…………..

[@markbehr88]

@ 😀

[@neilgrayson1723]

Ford Capri for export to USA as Mercury first local car assembled with Driver's airbag however yes VR first Australian car sold in Australia with Driver's airbag

[@markbehr88]

@@neilgrayson1723 Yes, available in Australia. 👍

[@supaslimey4181]

BF falcon is still the best Aussie rig

[@markbehr88]

@@supaslimey4181 Fair enough. 👍

[@Eric-kn4yn]

Cigarette lighter ?

[@markbehr88]

Still had one!

[@DrewTrouw]

@@markbehr88 Yeah by VY it was an option

[@benglossop2603]

@@DrewTrouw Even earlier than that. VT it was optional. VS was the last to have it standard

[@markbehr88]

Correct. 👍

[@emmett3067]

I had a VS Calais. That vehicle was pretty junk. You could never get the rear camber correct, it burnt through rear tyres like a maniac.

[@markbehr88]

I had a V6 and V8 as company cars. I liked the V8 quite a bit. 👍

[@michaelcalder9089]

Unfortunately the Eurovox sound system was cheap rubbish.

[@markbehr88]

@@michaelcalder9089 I think most car stereos back then were pretty basic. 🤔

[@johnt.848]

Not much different to the VP Comnmodore.

[@markbehr88]

Wider track was noticeable in base cars. 👍

[@minkles1330]

It's a Holden, nobody cares.... shoulda bought a Ford ( They make better diffs )

[@markbehr88]

That’s a point of view, especially if you love diffs. 🤔

[@commodorenut]

Funny how both Ford & Holden ran the same Borg Warner 78 series diff back then…..

[@markbehr88]

Smaller supplier base? 🤔

[@commodorenut]

@@markbehr88 Exactly, and it was all part of the Button plan. Consolidate industry to achieve an economy of scale to take on the world (but it didn't work out that way). The diffs were a major part that benefitted, so did the seats in many Aussie cars with the introduction of the Industry Seat in '87. Back then it was Lear corp who did the seats, but it eventually became Futuris in Australia, and the sharing of seat parts continued to VE/FG too. Smaller items like interior lights (Hella and the like, that most know about), some switchgear. and certain modules (like seat memory) were also shared to achieve an economy of scale too. It probably helped limp the local car industry on just a bit longer.