- Responsive 5.0-litre V8 engine
- Capable dynamics
- Comfortable and cavernous interior
- Four-speed automatic transmission provides clunky downshifts
- Poor standard of interior fit and finish
- High fuel consumption
Overview
Released in July 1990, the HSV VQ SV90 was a long wheelbase sedan. Manufactured by Holden in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Notting Hill, Victoria, the SV90 was powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine that was mated to a four-speed 4L60 automatic transmission. Based on the Holden VQ Statesman , production of the SV90 ended in July 1991 with only 135 vehicles produced.
V8 engine
The 5.0-litre LB9 pushrod V8 engine had a cast iron block, two valves per cylinder, multi-point fuel injection, a Delco electronic control module and a compression ratio of 8.4:1. Compared to the Holden V8 engine, however, changes for the SV91 included a high capacity air intake system, anti-knock sensor, recalibrated engine control unit and a dual exhaust system.
Dimensions and suspension
The HSV SV90 was 4955 mm long, 1812 mm wide, 1454 mm tall and had a 2826 mm long wheelbase; kerb weight was 1610 kg. The SV90 had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms. HSV modifications included the fitment of Monroe shock absorbers and lowering the suspension by 20 mm.
| Engine | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SV90 | 5.0-litre petrol V8 | 4sp auto | 180 kW at 4800 rpm | 400 Nm at 3600 rpm |
Features: HSV SV90
Standard features for the HSV SV90 included 16×8 alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, Howe leather and velour seat trim, air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, Momo leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows, power mirrors and trip computer. The SV90 was also fitted with a limited slip rear differential.
All SV90s had a Ruby Red paint finish and Honey Beige interior; full leather upholstery was available as an extra-cost option.
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