35 Facts About Holden Commodore

Holden Commodore: An Australian Icon

The Holden Commodore has been a staple in Australian automotive history. Known for its reliability, performance, and style, this car has captured the hearts of many. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this legendary vehicle.

1. The Holden Commodore was first introduced in 1978, marking the beginning of a new era for Australian cars.

2. It was initially based on the Opel Rekord, a German car, but was heavily modified to suit Australian conditions.

3. The first model, the VB Commodore, won the prestigious Wheels Car of the Year award in 1978.

4. Holden Commodores were produced in Australia until 2017, when local manufacturing ceased.

5. Over 3 million Commodores were built during its production run, making it one of Australia's best-selling cars.

Performance and Innovation

The Holden Commodore wasn't just about looks; it was a powerhouse of performance and innovation. Here are some key highlights.

6. The Commodore was the first Australian car to feature independent rear suspension, introduced in the 1988 VN model.

7. The high-performance HSV (Holden Special Vehicles) variants were introduced in 1987, offering enhanced power and handling.

8. The 1996 VT Commodore was the first Australian car to feature a driver's airbag as standard.

9. In 2006, the VE Commodore was the first car to be completely designed and engineered in Australia.

10. The VF Commodore, introduced in 2013, featured advanced technology like a head-up display and automated parking assist.

Racing Legacy

The Holden Commodore has a rich history in motorsports, particularly in Australian touring car racing.

11. The Commodore made its racing debut in 1980 at the Bathurst 1000, Australia's most famous endurance race.

12. Peter Brock, a legendary Australian racing driver, won the Bathurst 1000 nine times, many of those victories in a Commodore.

13. The Commodore has won the Bathurst 1000 more times than any other car, with over 30 victories.

14. The Holden Racing Team, established in 1990, became one of the most successful teams in Australian motorsport history.

15. The Commodore continued to dominate in the Supercars Championship, with multiple drivers' and constructors' titles.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its performance and racing pedigree, the Holden Commodore has left an indelible mark on Australian culture.

16. The Commodore was often featured in Australian films and TV shows, symbolizing the quintessential Aussie car.

17. Many Australians have fond memories of family road trips in a Commodore, making it a beloved part of the nation's history.

18. The car was a popular choice for police vehicles, known for its reliability and performance in high-speed pursuits.

19. The Commodore was also a favorite among taxi drivers, thanks to its spacious interior and durability.

20. Holden Commodore clubs and enthusiast groups continue to thrive, celebrating the car's legacy.

Design and Variants

The Holden Commodore came in various designs and models, each with its unique features and appeal.

21. The Commodore was available in sedan, wagon, and utility (ute) body styles, catering to a wide range of needs.

22. The VL Commodore, introduced in 1986, featured a turbocharged engine option, a first for the model.

23. The 1993 VR Commodore introduced a more aerodynamic design, improving fuel efficiency and performance.

24. The 2002 VY Commodore featured a bold new look with sharper lines and a more aggressive stance.

25. The final model, the ZB Commodore, was introduced in 2018 and was based on the Opel Insignia, marking a departure from previous designs.

Global Reach

While the Holden Commodore is an Australian icon, its influence extended beyond the country's borders.

26. The Commodore was exported to various countries, including New Zealand, the Middle East, and South Africa.

27. In the United States, the Commodore was sold as the Chevrolet SS from 2013 to 2017.

28. The car was also rebadged as the Vauxhall VXR8 in the United Kingdom, gaining a cult following.

29. In the Middle East, the Commodore was sold as the Chevrolet Lumina, popular for its performance and affordability.

30. The Commodore's global reach helped showcase Australian automotive engineering to the world.

End of an Era

The end of local manufacturing marked a significant moment in the history of the Holden Commodore.

31. The last Australian-built Commodore rolled off the production line on October 20, 2017, ending nearly 40 years of production.

32. Despite the end of local manufacturing, the Commodore nameplate continued with the imported ZB model until 2020.

33. Holden announced the end of the Commodore nameplate in December 2019, marking the end of an era for the iconic car.

34. The Commodore's legacy lives on through its dedicated fan base and the countless memories it created.

35. Today, the Holden Commodore remains a symbol of Australian automotive history, celebrated for its innovation, performance, and cultural impact.

Holden Commodore's Legacy

Holden Commodore's story is packed with innovation, performance, and Australian pride. From its debut in 1978 to its final model in 2020, this car has left a lasting mark on the automotive world. It wasn't just a mode of transport; it was a symbol of reliability and style. The Commodore's journey through various models and upgrades showcased Holden's commitment to excellence and adaptability.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who appreciates a good ride, the Commodore's history offers something fascinating. Its impact on motorsport, its role in Australian culture, and its technological advancements make it a true icon. As we look back, it's clear that the Holden Commodore will always hold a special place in the hearts of many. Here's to a car that truly defined an era and continues to inspire.