Holden Commodore (VC)
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1856 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
Area served | Australia |
| Products | Automobiles |
The Holden Commodore (VC) represents the second version within the initial generation of this mid-size car, manufactured by Holden between 1980 and 1981.
Overview
Introduced on 30 March 1980, the VC Commodore showcased a unique "eggcrate" style grille and incorporated several enhancements over the preceding VB model. It maintained its status as Australia's top-selling vehicle until the VH series succeeded it in October 1981.
Improvements comprised updated suspension systems aimed at better ride comfort and handling, subtle design refinements, and additional features such as cruise control.
The powertrain saw notable advancements, delivering up to a 25% increase in output alongside a 15% boost in fuel efficiency. These gains were achieved through redesigned cylinder heads featuring single intake and exhaust ports per cylinder, upgraded manifolds, newly engineered camshafts and pistons, the introduction of a Rochester Varajet carburettor, and an electronic ignition system. Known as the Blue engines due to their distinctive blue paint, these power units were exclusive to Holden and differed from those used in comparable Opel or Vauxhall vehicles.
A new 1.9-litre inline-four Starfire engine was also launched, created by removing two cylinders from the 2.85-litre Blue inline-six configuration. Although intended to enhance fuel economy during the late-1970s energy crisis, its relatively low power output necessitated higher engine speeds to sustain performance, which limited its efficiency benefits.
The model lineup expanded with the introduction of an L trim that replaced the base variant, while continuing to offer the mid-level SL and top-tier SL/E versions. Transmission choices remained consistent with a 4-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic. Total production numbers reached 121,807 units.
After the discontinuation of the Holden HZ series in 1980, the Commodore was complemented by the Holden WB commercial range and the luxury-oriented Statesman WB, all powered by the Blue engine family.
HDT Commodore
Following Holden’s withdrawal from touring car competition at the end of 1979—despite achievements with the LX Torana A9X SS hatchback—Peter Brock purchased the Holden Dealer Team (HDT) in 1980. Operating without factory support, Brock founded HDT Special Vehicles to produce and market performance-enhanced Commodores, using these sales to fund his racing operations. This initiative resulted in a premium VC Commodore variant equipped with an HDT-tuned 5.0-litre V8 engine generating at 4500 rpm. Limited to a production run of 500 units, the HDT Commodore was available through select Holden dealerships across Australia and offered in three colors—Palais White, Firethorn Red, and Tuxedo Black—which aligned with Marlboro branding, HDT’s principal sponsor.