Review: HSV VR GTS (1994-95)

Overview

Released in May 1994, the HSV VR GTS was a rear-wheel drive, performance sedan. Manufactured in Elizabeth, South Australia, and finished by HSV in Notting Hill, Victoria, the VR GTS was powered by a 5.7-litre V8 petrol engine that was initially available with a six-speed Borg Warner T56 manual transmission. In October 1994, however, a four-speed Borg Warner automatic transmission – as used on the LT1 Corvette – was introduced. Production of the VR GTS was limited to 277 vehicles.

In December 1994, HSV relocated from Notting Hill to Clayton, Victoria.

Engine

The VR GTS and VR Senator 215i were the first vehicles to be fitted with a stroked version of Holden’s 5.0-litre V8 pushrod engine – with a capacity of 5710 cc – which included an 11 mm longer Harrop crankshaft, flat-top pistons to lower the compression ratio to 8.5:1 (for compatibility with regular unleaded petrol), new valves, valve springs and a new flywheel.

Dimensions and suspension

Based on the Holden VR Commodore , the VR GTS was 4861 mm long, 1794 mm wide, 1420 mm tall and had a 2735 mm long wheelbase. The VR GTS had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with semi-trailing arms; the GTS was also fitted with a Hydratrak viscous limited slip differential that was developed by BTR Engineering.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the VR GTS was limited to ABS.

Brakes

The VR GTS had 328 mm by 28 mm vented front brake discs and 280 mm by 20 mm vented rear brake discs. 

Features

Standard features for the VR GTS included 17- by 8-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 ZR17 tyres, a radio and cassette player, air conditioning, Group A front sports seats, cruise control, a leather-wrapped Momo steering wheel, central locking, power windows, power mirrors and an alarm.

Related links

• Holden Special Vehicles: HSV VR GTS
• Wikipedia.org: Holden VR Commodore – HSV
• Wikipedia.org: HSV – VR/VS