1984 Holden VK Commodore "SS" Group Three Sedan (Build no.1694)
Sold: $38,450
Specifications
| Engine | 5.0Lt V-8 |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | 4-speed manual |
| Body Work | Sedan |
| Colour | Alpine White |
| Interior | Blue/Grey |
| Trim | Cloth/Vinyl |
| Wheels | Cast Alloy |
| Brakes | Discs |
Description
The first of the Holden Dealer Team-tweaked VK Commodores came onto the market in August 1984. Based on the success of the VH Group 3, HDT decided to drop the Group 1 and 2 trim levels, instead introducing their VK range with base-spec SS and the upgraded Group 3.
Both models were only available in two colours, Alpine White and Asteroid Silver, the SS also getting the same rear spoiler treatment and mechanical package as the Group 3. Initially this meant a leaded 308ci with HDT cold-air intake, four-barrel Rochester and a port-matched inlet manifold assisting to produce 177kW @ 4800rpm with a robust 419Nm torque @ 3500rpm. This was mated to the M21 four-speed as standard, though an expensive ($2850) option was the new Borg-Warner T-5 five-speed manual. A three-speed auto could be had in the SS, though it's believed only 2 special order autos were completed with the full Group 3 specification.
It was in the smaller details where the Group 3 showed big gains on the SS, with a Bilstein-improved suspension package and front sway bar added, along with standard 16-inch wheels (15-inch on the SS) with 225/50 tyres, while the interior of the Group 3 was to Berlina specifications, with Scheel seats and Momo steering wheel also fitted.
Today these early Group 3 VKs are much sought after, for their rarity (only 200 were built) and for them being the last of the HDT-enhanced 308ci 'Group' series, the VK Group A moving to the new 304ci capacity.
