2005 Holden VZ SS 'Brock Group 2' Utility

Description

Holden’s fourth and final update on the long-running VT/VX/VY Commodore platform, the facelifted VZ launched in 2004 was chiefly notable for the adoption of the new Alloytec DOHC V6 engine across the range, along with an all-new five-speed automatic transmission.  In addition to the usual Executive, Acclaim, Berlina and Calais series there were the more performance oriented SV6, SV8 and SS models.  Priced from $50,990, the SS continued to fly the flag as Holden’s hero performance Commodore and featured an aggressive body kit, rear wing, 18-inch five-spoke alloy wheels and FE2 sports suspension.  Rated at 250kW, the Gen III LS1 V8 was the only engine option (replaced with a 6.0-litre Gen IV unit in January 2006) and came with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, although a four-speed automatic was optional.  A limited slip diff, traction control and electronic brakeforce distribution were other notable features, along with safety equipment like side impact airbags and automatic headlamps.  The VZ SS’s interior featured sports seats upholstered in cloth trim as standard (leather was again optional), with colour-coded instrument cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and alloy pedals.  Champion racer and the driving force behind the Holden Dealer Team Peter Brock’s burgeoning Team Brock was, by 2005, emerging from retirement to compete at various levels including the V8 Ute Series and tarmac rallies like the Targa Tasmania.  Inspired by his Holden Dealer Team Group 1, Group 2 and Group 3 road cars, Brock came up with the idea of building a series of enhanced Commodore sedans and utes.  Using the latest VZ Commodore SS model as a base, brand new cars were supplied by friendly dealers to Team Brock’s facility in Hurstbridge, Victoria and ‘enhanced’ to one of three different specifications.  A Monaro CV8 was used as the test mule to develop the ideal combination of engine, braking and suspension upgrades.  In the end no Group 1 specification cars were built, just one Group 2 (the utility offered here) and a further four Group 3s, all completed in 2005 with special ‘05’ badging.  One of the final projects undertaken before Brock’s tragic demise the following year, the Team Brock Enhanced range of Commodores have flown under the radar until now but certainly qualify as collector’s items today.