With the door locks you could set it in the dash cluster to auto lock all doors when you put it into Drive and then auto unlock when you put it back into Park. Was a pretty good feature when you lived in the city and had your family in the car etc.
My previous daily driver was a VY SV8, was a good platform for mods as they were pretty light and I ended up running 10.7@130mph back in 2009 with a stock bottom end LS1, cam, heads, top mount blower etc and ended up doing almost 400,000k's before I moved it on but it would have been good if I could have kept it instead. :)
@@petebeat1510 It made 380rwkw on 10-11psi with pump 98 (was through a built 4l60e with a 4000rpm converter and 4.11 diff gears) so the 10.7@130mph which was on 235 drag radials and driven to and from the track was pretty impressive for what it was back then.
Spot on Ross, SV8 replaced the V8 Executive’s. They did do V8 Executives for Vy/Vz but they were for SA and QLD Police only. Preferred the proper povo V8 over SV8 as they tried doing a sort of in between body kit for them to make them stand out more than Executives but not as much as a SS. Same goes to the interior as well. Much like the full base model look more. Unfortunately both Vy/Vz and Ba/Bf we’re the last Commodore and Falcons you could get a V8 in the base models
@willm687 ford really pulled through with that, I've got a 3.0 Ve and they lack torque (computer makes it even worse). They make up for it by revving to 7k and actually being reliable compared to the 3.6
@@jarrynsmith to be fair the 3L is designed for economy Still does alright for a 3l tho But the biggest let down is the diff gears have to remember VE had larger diameter tires than the pre-ve and even falcons The V6 auto(4spd, 5spd and 6spd) had 3.27 but in reality with the gear ratios within the gearbox they should of had 3.70 as they have a much larger tire diameter than pre-ve and falcons I believe the BMW 5 series is actually the only sedan sold in aus at the time of VE/VF with a larger tire diameter than VE/VF and even they had close to 3.70 diff ratios with similar in-box ratios
G’day Ross, I love the SV8 because there basically a Sleeper in terms of a Commodore in my opinion, with the door locking/unlocking situation, you have to physically pull the door locks up the Drivers and or Passenger door locks that will unlock all the doors that’s one of the best features I love about the Commodores!
I have heard of and seen a SV8 many many years ago, I purchased a brand new 2004 Holden VZ Commodore Lumina in that same silver as that SV8, in 2005, and I still own it today over 18 years later, I still love it like that first day. 😊
Hi Ross. The SV8 came out in the VY and VZ models as Holden dropped the option of ordering a V8 in the base model (Executive) commodore. I think the SV8 was targeted at people who wanted a V8 for towing purposes but who didn't want to spend the money for a sports model. Years ago people would tow their caravan, boat, horse float etc with a Falcon or Commodore and obviously a V8 would be an advantage. But in the later years of production people now choose to use a Ranger or Hilux to tow their trailers. But back then the Commodore and Falcon were designed to be an everything vehicle, that is why we had the sedan and long wheelbase versions, ute, panel van and one tonne tray back. If you are looking for production numbers for an upcoming video featuring a Holden, I suggest send an email to Holden as they are known to give out such information.
It's the bare bones SS that came out in VY and VZ. The VZ V8s had the 3.73 diff ratio in the manuals (same as VT-VY HSVs) and electronic throttle, where as VY V8s had 3.46 diff ratio in the manuals and cable throttle... If you're getting an auto then you're better off getting a Calais and they ride a lot better and have a lot more features
I bought a VZ SV8 new and still have it It’s got the 6 speed manual with rip shift, full exhaust with extractors, cold air and dyno tune It only makes just over 300hp at the tyres but a lot more torque With only 110,000 ks it’s been a good fun car which I intend on keeping It handles pretty good with the standard suspension which I will upgrade along with the standard brakes as they are garbage Overall it’s a lot of car for the money and personally I think the VZ was one of the best looking models Great channel Ross
I read a Holden bulletin years back with the vy sv8 and was based along the lines of Holden was prohibited to release the commodore executive with 15-inch rims and the Ls motor. So they buttoned them up with 8" rims and a bumper. Hence, there is no executive vy or vz with the ls1. Can confirm that driving a ls commodore on pursuit rims is ridiculously fun.
Hi Ross, I had a blue vz sv8 with the ss spoiler which was a factory upgrade. The vz sv8 later 2005 onwards was basically an SV6 just with the v8. From what I was told is the earlier vz n vy were infact executives with the v8, sports suspension n alloys. 😊
It’s too bad that many of these Holden and Ford Australia cars never came to the US. We only got the Monaro, VE Commodore/Caprice, and the VF Commodore essentially. I researched all of the many trims that were available throughout the years and they seem like cool cars
I own a VY SV8 with the t56 manual and it's great fun. Similar to the VZ auto you just reviewed the gearing is pretty tall from factory and that hurts it off the line. Swapping out diff gears made a big difference in mine. The SV8 could be optioned with "Holden by design" extras. Eg my car has a full leather interior and extra front/rear/side skirt trims. It's pretty easy to pick the difference between the VY and VZ SV8s - the VZ has spotlights in the front bar and a more aggressive shape to the bonnet. The V8 front bar is full pov-pack. Makes a great sleeper. Re: door locks - locking/unlocking the drivers door lock from inside the car will trigger all the other door locks to do the same. Pretty standard for the VT-VZ range I believe.
this is mega cool. seems like a great cruiser chuck a nice exhaust on it and it would be my perfect type of car. understated, but has the power when you want it
That’s interesting about the locks. In the states the 04 and 05 GTOs didn’t have a central locking button until the final year 2006. The only way on the 04 & 05 to lock and unlock both doors was to push down or pull up on the driver door. That would do the same for other door or visa versa. Of course as you said you had the key fob as well.
The VY Series 1 and 2 SV8 were essentially an Executive with the SS running gear and some minimal interior/exterior addons to make the model. The VZ SV8 was an SV6 with the SS running gear. Until you see the badge or at least hear it, you'd assume the VZ was just an SV6 getting around. As for the interior lock button, no third gen Commodore had it. I had to get used to just pulling and pressing the drivers door lock to unlock/lock all the doors. There is however an auto-door lock like function which locks the doors when the car shifts from Park into any gear. This can be found going through the trip computer.
have one of these with full leather ..same colour...have put big bore.. extractors..otrcai ..maflees tune..definately get up and shreds now. didn't know there was only 500 made..wow...regards from nz
Good video, and I agree with your thoughts on it. I have a VY (2003) SV8 with the manual gearbox. I've done bolt-on mods and tuned MAFless. I would never claim it was super fast on a track or in a drag, but it has good torque and eats up the miles comfortably.
Still got my VY series 2 SV8 in a manual that I bought brand new. A few mods done over the years but nothing over the top and still drives well everyday I drive it.
True, I owned a 2002 auto BA XR6T and before doing work on it did a few runs. During winter nights I think 5.7 was the best 0-100 and during summer it was typically between 5.9-6.1
I have seen a red VY SV8 in 2003. Black interior, SV8 red custom print on black leather seats, red Speedo that glowed red numbers at night and black Simmons 3 piece rims. Never seen one since.
Bought a red one in 2011, T56 manual, had 114,000km’s. Paid $4500. Pulled the running gear out, put it in my 180SX, got it engineered and daily drove it till 2018
I remeber when I first saw one of these in that silver a few years ago. And I was like wtf. Than looked them up. They’re a really cool piece of history. Kinda like the falcon RTV’s with a 5.4L. Also Ross I have a WN2 Caprice with an LS3 down in vic. I know you’ve done a WN1 but not 2.
Seen them, they took over from essentially an executive fitted with the optional V8 engine, as this became the base model V8 in the commodore line up in 2002 pretty rare also.
I have a 2003 6 Speed Manual VY SV8 over here in NZ. Immaculate condition inside and out. After market body kit, cammed, pacemaker headers, otr etc tuned and 310kw at the rear, she's one quick street car. One of if not the tidiest SV8 in NZ I've been told. Would love to share a Pic or video somehow if possible?? Love your channel bro, keep up the good work 💪🤘
Pretty much an executive but has some SV6 bits in it. I have a VZ executive (absolute povo pac, doesn’t have electric windows in the back). The seats in this car are different to the executive seats (from sv6) and the gauge cluster is also the sport one. Also has the 6 disc changer I think whereas the regular exec doesn’t. Seems like an sv6 interior with the running gear of an ss. The exec had a different front bumper and also didn’t have fog lights
I like just how understated these are and how it looks an sv6 but with an LS1 under the hood. My dad has a red SV6 it handles great but does seem to lack that theatre that the V8 brings. I did notice when doing the 0-100 you didn't let it rev right out to 6200rpm maybe that would have helped.
They were a pretty popular lease car for Holden employees. The fun of the 8 without the price (though they were all pretty cheap on the Holdens lease scheme for employees).
imho from VE onwards the standard SS was just the SV8, while the actual SS was the SSV. Originally in the early VY commodores the SV8 was just an exec with the V8, FE2 suspension, 17" rims, and LSD. However later SV8 models were just the SV6 with V8s and the LSD. The main differences between the S and the SS (aside from the V8) were the different taillights, headlights, CD player, rims, as well as some other interior niceties. Likewise the VE SS and SSV also shared similar differences (headlights, taillights, sound system, interior stuff, etc), with the SS and SV6 being close to the same car with different powertrains (similar to how the old SV8 was basically the SV6 with a V8). Edit: it appears that only late VZ models were more similar to the SV6.
Regarding the locks, typical of the commodores you use the drivers lock (under your elbow on the window sill) to lock and unlock all the doors. If I remember correctly if you lock/unlock any of the doors using the little pop up invocatory thing, it would lock/unlock all the doors.
Had a stinger red sv6 vz for a while, bloody well balanced, loved it, always wanted one since i saw it at the age of 8. always like the sv8, got a couple around my block. but something about the sv6 always peeked my interest.....then it threw belts, lost cylinder 5, and a fuck ton of other issues....
I own a 03 VY model with the T56 with the usual mods from cam to exhaust and 4.11 diff gears and swapped out the whole interior for leather SS and even the cluster was changed to an SS one and has 175xxxkms. Have tracked it quite a few times and on the pad once youve said those numbers about the rarity i think ill be putting it back on the road after the rebuild without the turbo and a fresh lick of paint thanks for the motivation :)
mate of mine has a baby blue sv8 bought new with 40,000kms on it now , he loves it more than his 2 monaro's, was going to sell it for $15k about a decade ago but luckily changed his mind
SV8 in VY 1 form was the "purest" you could say to the V8 Executive it replaced. The only different features they got to an Executive was a rear spoiler, SS bolstered cloth front seats, deleted door mouldings, and colour coded side skirts. VY II added SS Headlights. When it got to VZ, They were pretty much a V8 SV6. But without the V6, and the flappy paddle 5 speed auto. V8 retained the 4 speed auto and 6 speed manual options
Have a mate who had an identical car but Manual for a few years. Copped 50,000ks of abuse. Was driven hard on old pacific highway (twisty bush road) multiple times a week and was thrown into a cook often. A lot of fun memories doing some pretty questionable things in that car.. handled well on twisty bends for a big car. only thing that went wrong was the diff getting a bit lazy but still drove fine. ended up selling it for a few grand more then he paid for it to a younger bloke who ended up writing it off a month later after hitting a power pole head on from running out of talent. Shame but great car and don’t see them often anymore.
I reckon it'd be cool to get a Toyota Lexcen and it's Commodore equivalent next to each other and go over them. There's a couple of different models from the VN. Then you could do a follow up on the Holden Apollo and Camry equivalent. They were just rebadged cars and are identical basically but would still be interesting. They're not performance cars though.
The SV8 was Holdens answer to the XRRT on paper, to a price point. The XR8 and SS cost 45k at that time,the XR6T was 42k . Holden had no competitor at this price so this was there solution, it could stack up against the XR6T on paper to a price but not on the road.
_SV8, while being a pov-pak SS, it’s key role was to provide an affordable performance option against the ever popular BA/BF XR6 turbos, back in the day. Both Wheels & Motor magazines promoted it with standing 400mtr times that always seemed to trump the early XR6T, at least for those who only cared about the 0-400 and not the 80-120kph times. This rivalry helped power levels of both cars climb with every new revision from that point onwards_ … 😎 _cool review Ross_ 👍🏼
A bloke down the street from my last place had a vz sv8. I rate them because of the v8 executive/ poor mans SS thing. Only thing I didn't like wasn't about the car, but the bloke had a zorst on it and was a shift worker. So he would warm it up before leaving for work at 3am Wednesdays through Sundays.
Old work mate sold his grey VN SS to buy a VZ SV8 6.0l. Took ages to find the SV8. Think the VN SS would be worth more than VZ now. He sold the VN for $2200.
I currently own a 2005 VZ SV8 6 speed manual with full leather trim. I'm guessing leather was an option on the SV8. It has an exhaust and extractors but its pretty stock. I'm pretty sure they have the same fe2 suspension setup as the SS also although I've just fitted new shocks and front end bushes to my car and now looking at getting dome lowered springs. Mine also has a VZ Clubsport wing and a VK style HDT grill and 20 inch wheels which makes it look a lot better. Also The SS headlights look a lot better then the standard SV8 so looking at picking up a set in the near future. I will next go for a OTR and mafless tune then in time get it cammed and freshened up but for now I'm pretty happy for what it is. Paid 10k for it about 3 years ago now.
A lot of ss owner’s will tell you it’s the Same but I believe these were simplified and slightly lighter and all testing at the time they were new confirmed that they were slightly faster even if just a tenth to 100
6.5 seconds 0-100 is reasonable for a stock standard car. If i was to make a full race/track spec car or even set up a car for drag racing. The SV8 would be a fantastic car to work with. Less equipment means less weight and less things to go wrong. Also you can be more forgiven by doing some insane modifications to it. Or turn it into a very fast sleeper.
I brought one of these as my first v8 for 4K when the prices bottomed out, 175,000k’s all stock, rough but body was straight and mechanically good. Only bad thing was it was an auto. But once I chucked on an engine back exhaust and intake it completely changed the way it ran. But once it was due for a rebuild, went all out with a cam and all the goodies. Made 270kw through a stock auto and drove beautiful, went like a shower of shit
Hey Ross, love the review man, I've been looking at a VY SV8 as my first V8, but I'm tossing up between a VY SV8 or a VE SS, and I'm super torn between both (I love both ughhhhhh) I've only owned a VT Commodore Olympic Edition (The ecotec is such a slug), and I think it's definitely time to upgrade :)
Go the VY mate, much more character than the VE. I've always loved the teardrop headlights. The LS1's are a great engine and cheap to modify. Good luck finding one!! I'll never sell my VY sv8..
Yes mate I knew they existed but would I buy one no I'd just go for the SS,but they're rare & whoever owns one should definitely keep it because like you said there's a lot of mods that can turn it into an even better car so the option is there,anyway still a nice car & your review was spot on brother so thanks for another enjoyable vid.
Mr Ross Reviews, long term watcher first time Commentor previous owner of a l98 v8 6 speed vz thunder (I seriously miss it) but currently a owner of a barrage turbo territory awd with the zf (for research purposes I keep telling myself) which is surprising me every other day being a long time Holden supporter it’s hard to accept a 2200kg suv that drives this well, with the only down fall being no third pedal. 😢 Ross and the internet should I build up the tt or get back behind a lion? What is it like living with a medium to high powered tt? - Im considering to start off with 313kw if i don’t find something else that interest me. Are these 2006 zf awd Barra turbo ghia worth keeping for future investment even if I currently scraping 230thou ks?
With the door locks you could set it in the dash cluster to auto lock all doors when you put it into Drive and then auto unlock when you put it back into Park. Was a pretty good feature when you lived in the city and had your family in the car etc.
Can do it with the base commodores from the series before with vt
You can still do this with the Ve commies, I used to think it was nifty on the Vy it used to spin people out
Who is gonna try steal a Commodore in the city though ?
@@Shrivellednutsack Well they were once the most stolen car (don't know if they still are though but they'd be up there)
My previous daily driver was a VY SV8, was a good platform for mods as they were pretty light and I ended up running 10.7@130mph back in 2009 with a stock bottom end LS1, cam, heads, top mount blower etc and ended up doing almost 400,000k's before I moved it on but it would have been good if I could have kept it instead. :)
What sort of HP did you have with the blower on it?
@@petebeat1510 It made 380rwkw on 10-11psi with pump 98 (was through a built 4l60e with a 4000rpm converter and 4.11 diff gears) so the 10.7@130mph which was on 235 drag radials and driven to and from the track was pretty impressive for what it was back then.
Spot on Ross, SV8 replaced the V8 Executive’s. They did do V8 Executives for Vy/Vz but they were for SA and QLD Police only. Preferred the proper povo V8 over SV8 as they tried doing a sort of in between body kit for them to make them stand out more than Executives but not as much as a SS. Same goes to the interior as well. Much like the full base model look more. Unfortunately both Vy/Vz and Ba/Bf we’re the last Commodore and Falcons you could get a V8 in the base models
The one good thing about FG2 is that base still had 4.0L and 6 speed where as ve 2 base model was 3.0L 6 speed
@willm687 ford really pulled through with that, I've got a 3.0 Ve and they lack torque (computer makes it even worse). They make up for it by revving to 7k and actually being reliable compared to the 3.6
@@jarrynsmith yeah I had a 3.0L wagon it was fucking useless I tried towing a camper trailer I lost about 100 Kw of power and 200 nm of torque
@@jarrynsmith to be fair the 3L is designed for economy
Still does alright for a 3l tho
But the biggest let down is the diff gears have to remember VE had larger diameter tires than the pre-ve and even falcons
The V6 auto(4spd, 5spd and 6spd) had 3.27 but in reality with the gear ratios within the gearbox they should of had 3.70 as they have a much larger tire diameter than pre-ve and falcons
I believe the BMW 5 series is actually the only sedan sold in aus at the time of VE/VF with a larger tire diameter than VE/VF and even they had close to 3.70 diff ratios with similar in-box ratios
I have a ss lumina Chevy 6.0L v8 twin turbo
G’day Ross, I love the SV8 because there basically a Sleeper in terms of a Commodore in my opinion, with the door locking/unlocking situation, you have to physically pull the door locks up the Drivers and or Passenger door locks that will unlock all the doors that’s one of the best features I love about the Commodores!
Or just hold the unlock button on fob also unlocks all doors
I have heard of and seen a SV8 many many years ago, I purchased a brand new 2004 Holden VZ Commodore Lumina in that same silver as that SV8, in 2005, and I still own it today over 18 years later, I still love it like that first day. 😊
Hi Ross. The SV8 came out in the VY and VZ models as Holden dropped the option of ordering a V8 in the base model (Executive) commodore. I think the SV8 was targeted at people who wanted a V8 for towing purposes but who didn't want to spend the money for a sports model. Years ago people would tow their caravan, boat, horse float etc with a Falcon or Commodore and obviously a V8 would be an advantage. But in the later years of production people now choose to use a Ranger or Hilux to tow their trailers. But back then the Commodore and Falcon were designed to be an everything vehicle, that is why we had the sedan and long wheelbase versions, ute, panel van and one tonne tray back.
If you are looking for production numbers for an upcoming video featuring a Holden, I suggest send an email to Holden as they are known to give out such information.
It's the bare bones SS that came out in VY and VZ. The VZ V8s had the 3.73 diff ratio in the manuals (same as VT-VY HSVs) and electronic throttle, where as VY V8s had 3.46 diff ratio in the manuals and cable throttle... If you're getting an auto then you're better off getting a Calais and they ride a lot better and have a lot more features
hey man thanks for the upload, always find this info interesting. Seems like NZ got most of the SV8's, at a quick glance there are a few over here.
Thanks for the info! Seems that way eh interesting
I bought a VZ SV8 new and still have it It’s got the 6 speed manual with rip shift, full exhaust with extractors, cold air and dyno tune It only makes just over 300hp at the tyres but a lot more torque With only 110,000 ks it’s been a good fun car which I intend on keeping It handles pretty good with the standard suspension which I will upgrade along with the standard brakes as they are garbage Overall it’s a lot of car for the money and personally I think the VZ was one of the best looking models
Great channel Ross
Awesome story! Thanks for the feedback I think for the money it was a good buy
I read a Holden bulletin years back with the vy sv8 and was based along the lines of Holden was prohibited to release the commodore executive with 15-inch rims and the Ls motor. So they buttoned them up with 8" rims and a bumper. Hence, there is no executive vy or vz with the ls1.
Can confirm that driving a ls commodore on pursuit rims is ridiculously fun.
Are you sure? Some of the ex cop cars were VY/VZ Executive's with LS1's, and they had the stockies as well
Hi Ross, I had a blue vz sv8 with the ss spoiler which was a factory upgrade. The vz sv8 later 2005 onwards was basically an SV6 just with the v8. From what I was told is the earlier vz n vy were infact executives with the v8, sports suspension n alloys. 😊
It’s too bad that many of these Holden and Ford Australia cars never came to the US. We only got the Monaro, VE Commodore/Caprice, and the VF Commodore essentially. I researched all of the many trims that were available throughout the years and they seem like cool cars
Aussie cars where serious machines and it was criminal they never got exported properly..
Pontiac G8 bad timing GFC in 08...
An Opel was sold as a Cadillac...
The 2003 VY SV8 was Wheels Performance Car of the year and yes in a straight line they were faster than a SS.
I own a VY SV8 with the t56 manual and it's great fun. Similar to the VZ auto you just reviewed the gearing is pretty tall from factory and that hurts it off the line. Swapping out diff gears made a big difference in mine.
The SV8 could be optioned with "Holden by design" extras. Eg my car has a full leather interior and extra front/rear/side skirt trims.
It's pretty easy to pick the difference between the VY and VZ SV8s - the VZ has spotlights in the front bar and a more aggressive shape to the bonnet. The V8 front bar is full pov-pack. Makes a great sleeper.
Re: door locks - locking/unlocking the drivers door lock from inside the car will trigger all the other door locks to do the same. Pretty standard for the VT-VZ range I believe.
Even my vf does that.
Yeah I think that's just a commodore thing aye,even all the HSVs etc where the same im pretty sure. Surprising Ross is just noticing this now haha
this is mega cool. seems like a great cruiser chuck a nice exhaust on it and it would be my perfect type of car. understated, but has the power when you want it
Right on! Definitely a few mods and this would be epic
That’s interesting about the locks. In the states the 04 and 05 GTOs didn’t have a central locking button until the final year 2006. The only way on the 04 & 05 to lock and unlock both doors was to push down or pull up on the driver door. That would do the same for other door or visa versa. Of course as you said you had the key fob as well.
The VY Series 1 and 2 SV8 were essentially an Executive with the SS running gear and some minimal interior/exterior addons to make the model. The VZ SV8 was an SV6 with the SS running gear. Until you see the badge or at least hear it, you'd assume the VZ was just an SV6 getting around.
As for the interior lock button, no third gen Commodore had it. I had to get used to just pulling and pressing the drivers door lock to unlock/lock all the doors. There is however an auto-door lock like function which locks the doors when the car shifts from Park into any gear. This can be found going through the trip computer.
What does 3rd gen refer to?
Spot on..my dad bought a Black VY SV8. Great car
@@cpzmelbs VT, VX, VY and VZ Commodores. These all had the LS1, with the MY06 VZ Commodores having the L76 6 litre V8 (With AFM disabled)
have one of these with full leather ..same colour...have put big bore.. extractors..otrcai ..maflees tune..definately get up and shreds now. didn't know there was only 500 made..wow...regards from nz
I bought my SV8 manual new and I still love driving it everyday.
Great to hear!
Good video, and I agree with your thoughts on it. I have a VY (2003) SV8 with the manual gearbox. I've done bolt-on mods and tuned MAFless. I would never claim it was super fast on a track or in a drag, but it has good torque and eats up the miles comfortably.
These are one of my favourite commodores ever since I was little.
Glad I could find one and review it for ya
Still got my VY series 2 SV8 in a manual that I bought brand new. A few mods done over the years but nothing over the top and still drives well everyday I drive it.
Awesome stuff!
Still impressive though. The BA XR6T stock is around 6 seconds. Thanks for the review and the new upgraded 4K resolution. Cheers
True, I owned a 2002 auto BA XR6T and before doing work on it did a few runs. During winter nights I think 5.7 was the best 0-100 and during summer it was typically between 5.9-6.1
I have seen a red VY SV8 in 2003. Black interior, SV8 red custom print on black leather seats, red Speedo that glowed red numbers at night and black Simmons 3 piece rims. Never seen one since.
Bought a red one in 2011, T56 manual, had 114,000km’s. Paid $4500. Pulled the running gear out, put it in my 180SX, got it engineered and daily drove it till 2018
Far out thats epic
I remeber when I first saw one of these in that silver a few years ago. And I was like wtf. Than looked them up. They’re a really cool piece of history. Kinda like the falcon RTV’s with a 5.4L.
Also Ross I have a WN2 Caprice with an LS3 down in vic.
I know you’ve done a WN1 but not 2.
You could also get a BA XT v8 and 5speed manual which is a pretty weird one, pretty rare though
Seen them, they took over from essentially an executive fitted with the optional V8 engine, as this became the base model V8 in the commodore line up in 2002 pretty rare also.
Correct I believe
Awesome 😎 video Ross Reviews. Can’t wait for the next video.
More to come!
I have a 2003 6 Speed Manual VY SV8 over here in NZ. Immaculate condition inside and out. After market body kit, cammed, pacemaker headers, otr etc tuned and 310kw at the rear, she's one quick street car. One of if not the tidiest SV8 in NZ I've been told. Would love to share a Pic or video somehow if possible?? Love your channel bro, keep up the good work 💪🤘
Pretty much an executive but has some SV6 bits in it. I have a VZ executive (absolute povo pac, doesn’t have electric windows in the back). The seats in this car are different to the executive seats (from sv6) and the gauge cluster is also the sport one. Also has the 6 disc changer I think whereas the regular exec doesn’t. Seems like an sv6 interior with the running gear of an ss. The exec had a different front bumper and also didn’t have fog lights
I like just how understated these are and how it looks an sv6 but with an LS1 under the hood. My dad has a red SV6 it handles great but does seem to lack that theatre that the V8 brings. I did notice when doing the 0-100 you didn't let it rev right out to 6200rpm maybe that would have helped.
Slush box has a mind of its own n very delayed shifts.. it’s got potential but stock it’s quiet slow acceleration off the line. Cool car tho
They were a pretty popular lease car for Holden employees. The fun of the 8 without the price (though they were all pretty cheap on the Holdens lease scheme for employees).
Can’t deny that eh for the price
I remember these,. I liked them because they remided me of my mates VR or VS Calais that came ffrom factory with a 5.0 back in the 90s
Most of them ended up highway patrol cars in Queensland cheap V8 interceptor that rode comfortably
Definitely cop spec base model v8
Lock button is the lock on drivers door itself.
Push down then pull back up releases the other 3 doors.
imho from VE onwards the standard SS was just the SV8, while the actual SS was the SSV. Originally in the early VY commodores the SV8 was just an exec with the V8, FE2 suspension, 17" rims, and LSD. However later SV8 models were just the SV6 with V8s and the LSD. The main differences between the S and the SS (aside from the V8) were the different taillights, headlights, CD player, rims, as well as some other interior niceties. Likewise the VE SS and SSV also shared similar differences (headlights, taillights, sound system, interior stuff, etc), with the SS and SV6 being close to the same car with different powertrains (similar to how the old SV8 was basically the SV6 with a V8).
Edit: it appears that only late VZ models were more similar to the SV6.
You're spot on, VE SS was a direct VZ SV8 replacement. And VE SS-V replaced the VZ SS, which was higher specced.
Regarding the locks, typical of the commodores you use the drivers lock (under your elbow on the window sill) to lock and unlock all the doors. If I remember correctly if you lock/unlock any of the doors using the little pop up invocatory thing, it would lock/unlock all the doors.
I own a vz wagon executive and The only door looks are the ones on the doors, no other switchers or anything.
Haha so weird that no? I guess just keep it simple
Had a stinger red sv6 vz for a while, bloody well balanced, loved it, always wanted one since i saw it at the age of 8. always like the sv8, got a couple around my block. but something about the sv6 always peeked my interest.....then it threw belts, lost cylinder 5, and a fuck ton of other issues....
Saw one for sale in NZ few weeks ago at Pearce Bros in Auckland $10k , I did notice it only had a single exhaust tip !
That’s cheap
@@RossReviewsau to cheap !it was sold pretty much as soon as it was listed .
first time hearing about the sv8 . cheers
Glad I could shed some light on it
I own a 03 VY model with the T56 with the usual mods from cam to exhaust and 4.11 diff gears and swapped out the whole interior for leather SS and even the cluster was changed to an SS one and has 175xxxkms. Have tracked it quite a few times and on the pad once youve said those numbers about the rarity i think ill be putting it back on the road after the rebuild without the turbo and a fresh lick of paint thanks for the motivation :)
mate of mine has a baby blue sv8 bought new with 40,000kms on it now , he loves it more than his 2 monaro's, was going to sell it for $15k about a decade ago but luckily changed his mind
Very nice mate.. hold on to it
I did see one of the VY SV8, from memory the SV8 was quicker than the SS due to the weight advantage.
SV8 in VY 1 form was the "purest" you could say to the V8 Executive it replaced. The only different features they got to an Executive was a rear spoiler, SS bolstered cloth front seats, deleted door mouldings, and colour coded side skirts. VY II added SS Headlights. When it got to VZ, They were pretty much a V8 SV6. But without the V6, and the flappy paddle 5 speed auto. V8 retained the 4 speed auto and 6 speed manual options
Bloke in the next st has an SV08 Senator pretty cool & yeah the only Senator to come in manual & FYI the 08 means it a 1st gen VE
As long as it makes the blue hairs have a meltdown I'm in!😂
🤣 cam and exhaust should do the trick 😈
I loved my sv8 was about 8 grand cheaper than a ss did a exhaust upgrade and ross you can make any car exciting by the way you drive it😊.
I bought a turismo blue VZ sv8 only last year and I couldn’t be happier with it, 6speed manual and a nice exhaust, what more could you want
I had one seen a VY SV8 at a dealer and to my surprise was a 5 speed manual transmission
Have a mate who had an identical car but Manual for a few years. Copped 50,000ks of abuse. Was driven hard on old pacific highway (twisty bush road) multiple times a week and was thrown into a cook often. A lot of fun memories doing some pretty questionable things in that car.. handled well on twisty bends for a big car. only thing that went wrong was the diff getting a bit lazy but still drove fine. ended up selling it for a few grand more then he paid for it to a younger bloke who ended up writing it off a month later after hitting a power pole head on from running out of talent. Shame but great car and don’t see them often anymore.
Rip that SV8.. cheers for the story
@@RossReviewsau No worries Ross, got plenty of stories about holdens from over the years. Great video aswell brought back a few memories 🙌🏼
I reckon it'd be cool to get a Toyota Lexcen and it's Commodore equivalent next to each other and go over them. There's a couple of different models from the VN. Then you could do a follow up on the Holden Apollo and Camry equivalent. They were just rebadged cars and are identical basically but would still be interesting. They're not performance cars though.
I’d love to just finding them is the problem
@@RossReviewsau
After a Carsales search I realize they aren't as common as they once were.
@@azcarter4389A lot of the Lexcen's were turned into Commodores by their owners...
@@MartinJones123 Interesting, I guess you'd probably never know unless you check the VIN
The SV8 was Holdens answer to the XRRT on paper, to a price point.
The XR8 and SS cost 45k at that time,the XR6T was 42k .
Holden had no competitor at this price so this was there solution, it could stack up against the XR6T on paper to a price but not on the road.
Still a better time than those old Tickfords That you reviewed couple of years ago probably similar year
_SV8, while being a pov-pak SS, it’s key role was to provide an affordable performance option against the ever popular BA/BF XR6 turbos, back in the day. Both Wheels & Motor magazines promoted it with standing 400mtr times that always seemed to trump the early XR6T, at least for those who only cared about the 0-400 and not the 80-120kph times. This rivalry helped power levels of both cars climb with every new revision from that point onwards_ … 😎 _cool review Ross_ 👍🏼
What the fuck is this 400 shit, 400 foot, meter?!
I had a stroke Trina read this
A bloke down the street from my last place had a vz sv8. I rate them because of the v8 executive/ poor mans SS thing. Only thing I didn't like wasn't about the car, but the bloke had a zorst on it and was a shift worker. So he would warm it up before leaving for work at 3am Wednesdays through Sundays.
I’ve been waiting for this one
Finally found one
Had a VY SV8
6 SPD
Same amount ok
Was a awesome sleeper
Old work mate sold his grey VN SS to buy a VZ SV8 6.0l.
Took ages to find the SV8.
Think the VN SS would be worth more than VZ now.
He sold the VN for $2200.
I currently own a 2005 VZ SV8 6 speed manual with full leather trim. I'm guessing leather was an option on the SV8. It has an exhaust and extractors but its pretty stock. I'm pretty sure they have the same fe2 suspension setup as the SS also although I've just fitted new shocks and front end bushes to my car and now looking at getting dome lowered springs. Mine also has a VZ Clubsport wing and a VK style HDT grill and 20 inch wheels which makes it look a lot better. Also The SS headlights look a lot better then the standard SV8 so looking at picking up a set in the near future. I will next go for a OTR and mafless tune then in time get it cammed and freshened up but for now I'm pretty happy for what it is. Paid 10k for it about 3 years ago now.
Not bad mate! Nice one
I have not seen one of these since they were brand new!
You are not missing anything. The American GTO was also like that for 04' and 05'. 06' got a button on the center console to unlock the doors.
Really? Interesting.. I thought maybe it was first seen with the VE. So only models under Chevrolet, and not pontiac. That's what I figured anyway lol
U should come to Nz I have to Falcons A fairly stock El xr6 with some light mods and then and 84 xe falcon Ute with a solid Cam351
Great review as always mate, and awesome car, as I might be a little biased as my pic might suggest😜
Thanks 👍 gotta love em
Love the sleeper appeal of the SV8, but nowadays, I'd probably go for the SS as they have more fruit, despite weighing more...
I would probably as well😅
A lot of ss owner’s will tell you it’s the Same but I believe these were simplified and slightly lighter and all testing at the time they were new confirmed that they were slightly faster even if just a tenth to 100
6.5 seconds 0-100 is reasonable for a stock standard car. If i was to make a full race/track spec car or even set up a car for drag racing. The SV8 would be a fantastic car to work with. Less equipment means less weight and less things to go wrong. Also you can be more forgiven by doing some insane modifications to it. Or turn it into a very fast sleeper.
Not terrible
VY/VZ interior has held up pretty well imo
Agreed 👍 this one especially
I brought one of these as my first v8 for 4K when the prices bottomed out, 175,000k’s all stock, rough but body was straight and mechanically good. Only bad thing was it was an auto.
But once I chucked on an engine back exhaust and intake it completely changed the way it ran. But once it was due for a rebuild, went all out with a cam and all the goodies. Made 270kw through a stock auto and drove beautiful, went like a shower of shit
good buy at 4k! glad she got done up
Im rocking the SV8 VY modded. Previously owned the SS
Love the VY-VZ models,, slush box is the only dislike👍🏽
Nice! Yup definitely the 4spd let’s it down.
Have you heard of the s pack series before the sv8 series? My parents had a vu ute s pack v8 6speed manual
Yes I remember the SV8
They are a thing 😅
I should of bought one for an extra 8k dealer only had a sv6 demo with five speed paddle shift ❤
Cheaper new and faster than SS because lighter. This was after the V8 option was dropped on the Excecutive.
Definitely throw that 8k into mods and it would stomp an SS
Hey Ross, love the review man, I've been looking at a VY SV8 as my first V8, but I'm tossing up between a VY SV8 or a VE SS, and I'm super torn between both (I love both ughhhhhh)
I've only owned a VT Commodore Olympic Edition (The ecotec is such a slug), and I think it's definitely time to upgrade :)
Go the VY mate, much more character than the VE. I've always loved the teardrop headlights. The LS1's are a great engine and cheap to modify. Good luck finding one!! I'll never sell my VY sv8..
should review the vz SV6 as it came with the 5 speed auto and paddle shifters
Would be interesting to see that in action
Yes mate I knew they existed but would I buy one no I'd just go for the SS,but they're rare & whoever owns one should definitely keep it because like you said there's a lot of mods that can turn it into an even better car so the option is there,anyway still a nice car & your review was spot on brother so thanks for another enjoyable vid.
Yo years ago when I was a kid I told my brother I seen an sv8 down the street and he didn't believe me. They're real!
🤣🤣🤣 they are very much real!
Haven't seen any on the road for ages...years
Funny I seen one on the road today! And I’ve never ever noticed one until I posted this video 😂
Everyone thinks their Commodores are worth a million dollars now so many have been parked up aswell.
yes plenty sv8 cars over here in nz poor man SS still good plantform for mods
Sounds like more are over there
It's like an XT if it had the turbo Barra or 5.0 302 from factory
They are quite rare i understand. Basically a base commodore with a V8 from the SS
A set of 3.73 diff gears would help it heaps.
Not the fuel consumption😅.
@@mvnorsel6354 Fun has a price 😂
@@mvnorsel6354 More revs doesn't always mean it burns more fuel.💯
Yes makes a huge improvement
Would absolutely help
8k back in the day would have got u coilovers otr full exhaust maybe even a cam done u be seeing 300rwkw will would be decent street car
Absolutely 💯
Thank you.
You’re Welcome!
alot of Sv8s get vy/vz clubsport kits put on em. i mean why not
My VY SV8 series one has FE2 suspension. I'm sure the VZ SV8 would also have FE2?? Gotta love the lazy old 4L60 auto......
I ended up getting an LS1 Berlina for even more sleeper mode.
😳👀👀👀
I seen SV8 and CV8 back in 2000's.
Yes cv8 was a model to
@@RossReviewsauCV6 is a thing to.
Its a platform car...there's potential.......would be nice in a manual......another Aussie car to hold onto....
Absolutely 💯
Mr Ross Reviews, long term watcher first time Commentor previous owner of a l98 v8 6 speed vz thunder (I seriously miss it) but currently a owner of a barrage turbo territory awd with the zf (for research purposes I keep telling myself) which is surprising me every other day being a long time Holden supporter it’s hard to accept a 2200kg suv that drives this well, with the only down fall being no third pedal. 😢
Ross and the internet should I build up the tt or get back behind a lion? What is it like living with a medium to high powered tt? - Im considering to start off with 313kw if i don’t find something else that interest me.
Are these 2006 zf awd Barra turbo ghia worth keeping for future investment even if I currently scraping 230thou ks?
You press your lock button on the drivers door and they all should go down
True the sv8 was lighter..but you couldn't get the 6.0 in the sv8 I tried in 2006..no sorry had to get the ss to get the l76...so I did.
I’ve read on forms of people saying they have one?? Not sure 🤷♂️
I'm pretty sure they did have SV8's as L76's, but as with the VZ Executive V8, they're very rare...
I saw a turismo blue 6 litre SV8 in a Holden yard a few years ago. Was very nice 😊
Executive with LS and bodykit...
I take power mode off when box automatically changes 2nd into 3rd or box don't like it.
VZ sv8 and sv6 use the same suspension as VZ ss (fe2) different wheel and tyres though
Sv8 didn't come out with the SS body kit.they come out with exec front and rear bars...
From factory These where extremely well priced
About 40k very cheap
I did not know they made sv8 I would buy one
They did 🙂
Nearly bought a vy one for 9 but didn't apeal to me with out the extra bling
That’s fair.