1988 VL Holden Calais 4.9L V8 ... (SOLD)

The VL Commodore was a substantial makeover of the VK, and would be the last of the mid-size Commodores. The designers softened the lines for the VL, rounding off the panels and introducing a small tail spoiler built into the boot lid. Holden also implemented rectangular headlamps as opposed to the square shaped ones fitted to earlier models. For the top-of-the-range Calais model, the design incorporated the use of semi-retracting headlight covers, the first for a production Holden. This had been previously attempted on the never released Torana GTR-X which featured fully retractable headlights.

Major changes were made to the dashboard with new instruments, touch switches mounted either side controlling wipers, rear window demister, electric antenna (Berlina/Calais), and the headlight switch moved from the right-hand dash side to the indicator stalk. Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning control graphics changed slightly, the center console offered more storage with a new transmission shifter and surround.

Previously, Holden had considered discontinuing their V8 engine rather than adapting it to unleaded petrol. This was partly in response to Ford Australia's 1983 decision to drop the V8 from its competing Falcon model. However, public outcry spearheaded by a media-driven "V8s 'til 98" campaign persuaded Holden to continue production. Eventually with continual developments, the Holden V8 lasted until 1999, before being replaced by the imported GM LS1 V8 engine.

The 4.9 litre V8 featured the familiar Rochester four-barrel carburettor. It had been adapted to unleaded fuel and boasted both more power and torque than its predecessor, now at 122 kilowatts (164 hp) with 323 newton metres (238 ft lbf). GM had fitted the V8 with larger valves carried over from the previous Group A engine.

For sale is this stunning example of the V8 Calais. In Venetian Red Metallic with perfect light grey trim, this Calais has covered a genuine 106,288 klms and it shows. Repainted in 2 Pack approximately 5 years ago, this Calais presents in showroom condition with near faultless paint and body. Retrimmed in the original new old stock trim on genuine VL Scheel seats (original seats are included with the sale). Featuring working factory integrated air conditioning, power steering, power windows, power mirrors, cruise control and those wonderful retractable headlight covers.

Mechanically all matching numbers with the 4.9L V8 re-built to factory specs 5 years ago with mild cam, Pacemaker extractors, 2 1/2" exhaust system, reconditioned brakes and suspension including new Bilstein shocks, this Calais has been maintained regardless of expense. The whole look is set off nicely by those enormous 19" HDT Momo Star alloy rims fitted with low profile near new Pirelli rubber. The original Calais rims with five good Yokahama tyres come with the car.

There are nice touches around the car including a rear window venetian, a modern stereo with original sound system supplied, an original 1988 NSW registration label on the front windscreen and 088 GMH NSW plates to perfectly round off this Bicentennial beauty. The car comes with full NSW registration.

Available for inspection at our Kingsgrove, Sydney showroom. Or if you are unable to travel due to Covid restrictions, AMCS will gladly arrange a video inspection of the car using WhatsApp and of course there is no issue with door to door freight delivery anywhere in Australia or New Zealand. (Ref. 5575)