1993 VR Holden Commodore

The new, safety-orientated Acclaim model offered IRS, ABS and seat belt webbing clamps. Further changes included a soft-form, wrap-around instrument panel, adjustable steering column, CFC-free air conditioning and clever electronic security.

The VR Series was more than a simple facelift of the VP Commodore, the only body panels being carried over were the roof and the door skins.

The shape was now softer and more aerodynamic, and with additions such as the first Australian built car to offer a driver’s airbag, the VR was unquestionably superior in every department over previous iterations.

There was also a new electronic automatic transmission, and a new engine/auto computer module (IPCM 6)  boasting a larger capacity memory module which proved considerably faster than the previous model.

Now standard on all models were the body computer, power mirrors, tachometer and gas bonnet struts.

There was a new security system, and some minor improvements to the V6, making the engine both smoother and marginally more powerful, while reducing fuel consumption.

The interior benefited from a softer looking dash and instrument panel, a smaller diameter steering wheel, while the VR was now fitted with a tilt/telescopic steering column adjustment.

The VR Series II was introduced in September 1994, and boasted heaps of improvements including

• Convex passenger side rear mirror
• Speed Alert
• Warning chime for handbrake on
• Fuel low warning light and chimes
• Superior cloth trim
• Red trim on the boot rather than grey (Executive only)
• Black grill inserts (Executive)
• Series II badges under the front side indicators
• V8 optioned cars were fitted with a different starter motor
• New exhaust manifold for V6 models (in an attempt to make it quiet

Most revered (apart from HSV models) was the SS, naturally enough fitted with the 5.0 litre V8, although you could option it with a HSV enhanced unit good for 185kW. The SS featured an integrated brake light within the rear wing, along with an aerodynamically designed rear bumper. The grille was blacked out, and featured red highlights, while fog-lamps were integrated into the front bumper.

VR COMMODORE

1993 – 1995

Engine: 6 cyl. & V8

Capacity: 3.8 litre EFI V6; 5.0 V8 EFI

Power:130kW (V6) & 165kW (V8)

Transmission: 5 spd. man & 4 spd. Turbohydramatic

Base price when new: $25,302.

Total built: 165,262

Holden 48-215 Launch, November 1948

Holden 48-215 Emblem

Holden has a special place in Australia’s history as the manufacturer of the first all-Australian car, the 48-215 (FX). Since 1948, when the famous 48-215 took to the road, a succession of landmark models have driven themselves so deeply into the Australian way of life that they have become an integral part of it.

Along the way, the Holden name has acquired a significance and status all of its own, symbolised by a spirit of strength, ingenuity and adaptability.

Today, Holden employs more than 6300 people Australia wide and has produced more than seven million vehicles. As part of General Motors, the world’s largest automotive company since 1931, Holden is evolving from a domestic manufacturer into an internationally competitive exporter of vehicles, engines and automotive expertise to diverse markets.

Holden’s major operating facilities are located at Fishermans Bend (technical centre, administration and engine manufacturing plants), Dandenong (spare parts operation) and Lang Lang (automotive proving ground)  in Victoria; as well as Elizabeth (vehicle manufacturing plant) in South Australia.

Although Holden Cars of the future will change in profile, be  powered by different engines and introduce ever more innovative features, the process of change generated through such initiatives will be forever linked to the company’s heritage by the Holden Car “Lion Emblem” displayed proudly on its products.