1986 HOLDEN COMMODORE VL TURBO

MODEL OVERVIEW:

The Holden Commodore VL Turbo has earned its place as an Australian performance icon, combining sharp 1980s styling with one of the most celebrated powerplants ever fitted to a local car. Introduced in 1986, the VL Turbo paired Holden’s lightweight, aerodynamic third-generation Commodore body with the Nissan-sourced RB30ET 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six—a smooth, robust and highly tuneable engine that quickly became a favourite among enthusiasts and tuners. With strong factory performance, rear-wheel-drive dynamics and distinctive features such as its sleek front end, slim tail-lights and unmistakable turbo badgework, the VL Turbo delivered a level of refinement and speed that reset expectations for Australian sedans. Today, it is regarded as a cult classic, prized for its motorsport ties, modification potential, and its role in shaping the legacy of high-performance Commodores.

AUCTION CAR:

This 1986 Holden Commodore VL Turbo Manual is an exceptionally built, bare-metal–restored and comprehensively re-engineered performance example that combines true factory LW5 Turbo / MX7 manual pedigree with a fully modernised, high-horsepower mechanical package. Delivered new as a genuine Turbo 5-speed car with its original books, it has since undergone a complete transformation, emerging as a professionally built, 740hp RB30-powered street machine that still retains all the visual appeal, attitude and proportions that define the VL Turbo legend.

The car was stripped to bare metal and refinished inside and out in Absinth Yellow by Northcar Customs in Epping, including a smoothed engine bay, battery relocation to the boot, full underbody refinishing in stone protection and a ceramic-coated final finish. The result is a crisp, clean and refined exterior with presentation quality that reflects the extensive labour and expertise invested. It is equally clean underneath and under the bonnet, reaffirming the quality of the build. This is a fresh, standout, high-level VL that has been executed with care, precision and no shortcuts.

DRIVE - LINE:

Powered by a completely re-engineered RB30 3.0-litre turbo engine producing a tuned 740hp, built by Loui’s Performance Services in Hoppers Crossing. The engine features a fully strengthened rotating assembly using NITTO forged pistons and rods, a NITTO oil pump and NITTO head gasket, with Loui’s custom billet intake manifold, custom exhaust manifold and a full race-prepared cylinder head incorporating performance camshaft, double valve springs, ARP hardware and associated upgrades. Airflow and charge cooling are handled by an Aeroflow intercooler, while ignition is supported by a Bosch coil conversion. A Garrett T51r turbocharger with an upgraded billet 11-blade wheel delivers huge flow and the characteristic whistle and surge expected of a high-power VL build. Supporting systems include an LS1 alternator conversion, Tuff engine mounts, a Romac harmonic balancer, a custom 3.5-inch exhaust system, a high-performance sump and a filtered custom catch-can system.

Engine management is controlled by a Microtech LT16c ECU paired with a Microtech X6 igniter module and Microtech 7-inch digital dash, all working seamlessly with an Eboost2 controller to maintain precise boost and engine control in 3 steps: 350kw 14psi / 420kw 22psi / 550kw 34psi to the wheels.

Power is delivered through a Nissan Z32 (300ZX) 5-speed gearbox fitted with an Extreme clutch and custom short shifter, providing a strong and engaging manual-shift experience capable of handling the engine’s substantial output.

The rear end is equally well-matched and high level, featuring a shortened 9-inch with 31-spline axles, a Truetrac LSD centre and 3.91 gears, set up to comfortably support the power through a 255-wide rear tyre.

EXTERIOR:

The fresh exterior presents at an exceptionally high standard following its bare-metal restoration and Absinth Yellow repaint. Featuring crisp, precise bodywork including a fully smoothed engine bay that showcases the RB30 powerplant in show-quality fashion.

The paintwork is ceramic-coated for longevity and depth of finish, and the underbody has been refinished in stone protection to match the quality of the exterior.

Panel alignment, trim fitment and exterior detail are all crisp and consistent, giving the car a refined, purposeful presence without being over styled. The result is a VL Turbo that maintains its iconic silhouette while reflecting the finish quality of a contemporary high-end custom build show car.

INTERIOR:

Inside, this VL has received a complete interior restoration by Western Street Trim in Coburg, trimmed throughout in genuine sandwood sawtooth NOS cloth material with period-correct presentation. The front seats are genuine Brock Scheel units, while the dash pad and centre console have been refurbished. The cabin also features a genuine 1980's dated MOMO SV steering wheel, a Microtech 7-inch digital dash integrated cleanly into the interior with an external Eboost2 controller. The interior is completed with new seatbelts, new door cards and a new headliner, delivering a tidy, comfortable and well-finished cabin that mixes VL nostalgia with modern performance functionality. To top of the style points... Venetian blinds are fitted to the rear and quarters.

SUMMARY:

Delivered new in Warrnambool, Victoria by Callaghan Motors, this genuine 1986 Holden Commodore VL Turbo Manual (LW5 / MX7) left the factory in Marenello Red (1FO75) has been professionally transformed into a 740hp, forged-internals performance build using premium components, specialist workshops and meticulous craftsmanship. With its T51r turbocharged RB30, Z32 manual gearbox, Truetrac 9" rear end, extensive Microtech engine management system, smoothed engine bay and bare-metal Absinth Yellow repaint, it is a thoroughly engineered and exceptionally clean VL that presents in fresh, high-quality condition throughout.

This is a serious high-performance VL Turbo that retains its genuine Turbo/Manual identity while offering modern reliability, strength and performance. A like or better than new, turnkey, enthusiast /  collector-grade build that stands out in every respect.

Immaculate.

 

Currently on Vic. Club Reg.  - 5036H3

VIN: AVL01636M

ENG: 049045A

AUCTION DETAILS:

Estimate Price Guide: $65,000 - $85,000 +

Inspections: Chicane Auctions Showroom

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AUCTION START:

Thursday November 27th

AUCTION CLOSE:

Thursday December 4th from 8:30pm (AEDT)

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More information Visit:- WWW.CHICANEAUCTIONS.COM.AU

 

Phone our Melbourne Office on (03) 9580 7369

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About Chicane Auctions:

 

Based in Melbourne, Chicane Auctions are specialists in Collector, Performance & Rare Cars.

 

Did you know? Chicane Auctions do not charge their Sellers any fees or cost, to Sell their cars.

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