The Holden VT Series II Commodore introduced a number of technical and equipment upgrades to the original VT model range. Released as Production Option A9W, the Series II update brought revised exterior styling details, updated interior trims and improved electronic systems across the Executive, Berlina and Calais models. One of the most significant changes was the introduction of the new 5.7-litre Gen III V8 engine, replacing the earlier Holden 5.0-litre V8 and marking a major step forward in performance and engine technology for the Commodore platform.
VT Series II Engine Specifications
The VT Series II Commodore was available with three main engine configurations covering both standard and performance variants.
• 3.8L V6 Ecotec — 147 kW at 5200 rpm, 304 Nm at 3600 rpm
• 3.8L Supercharged V6 (L67) — 171 kW at 5000 rpm, 375 Nm at 3200 rpm
• 5.7L Gen III V8 (LS1) — 220 kW at 5200 rpm, 446 Nm at 4000 rpm
The Gen III LS1 V8 featured an aluminium cylinder block and cylinder heads with cast-iron cylinder liners and became the flagship performance engine for the VT Series II range.
Transmission Options
Several transmission combinations were available depending on engine choice and model specification.
• 4-speed automatic transmission (V6 and V8 models)
• 5-speed manual transmission (V6 models)
• 6-speed Borg-Warner (Tremec) T56 manual transmission (Gen III V8 models)
Typical transmission gear ratios included:
• 1st gear — 3.06:1 (automatic), 3.829:1 (V6 manual), 2.66:1 (V8 manual)
• 2nd gear — 1.63:1 (automatic), 2.199:1 (V6 manual), 1.78:1 (V8 manual)
• 3rd gear — 1.00:1 (automatic), 1.401:1 (V6 manual), 1.30:1 (V8 manual)
• 4th gear — 0.70:1 (automatic)
• 5th gear — 0.809:1 (V6 manual) or 0.74:1 (V8 manual)
• 6th gear — 0.50:1 (V8 manual)
VT Series II Equipment Updates
The Series II update introduced several changes to styling and equipment.
• New grille inserts and exterior ornamentation
• Revised tail lamps and clear lens side repeater lamps
• Updated wheel designs and trims depending on model
• Revised interior trim colours and materials
• New instrument cluster with improved diagnostic functions
• Cruise control availability for manual transmission models
• Revised engine cooling fans for V6 engines
Electronic Systems and Body Control Module
The VT Series II introduced an upgraded Body Control Module with several new convenience and security features.
• Remote deadlocking using the remote key
• Battery saver system for interior lighting
• Key-off courtesy lamp operation
• Approach illumination when unlocking the vehicle
• Reduced standby electrical current draw for improved battery life
VT Series II Vehicle Weights
Vehicle weights varied depending on body style and engine specification.
• Sedan V6 kerb mass — approximately 1512 to 1601 kg
• Sedan V8 kerb mass — approximately 1572 to 1648 kg
• Wagon V6 kerb mass — approximately 1572 to 1623 kg
• Wagon V8 kerb mass — approximately 1632 to 1670 kg
Typical payload capacity ranged from 408 kg for sedan models to 480 kg for wagon models depending on configuration.
Vehicle Identification Information
VT Series II vehicles include several identification plates used to record manufacturing and specification details. The Vehicle Identification Number can be viewed through the windscreen and also appears on the body structure and identification plates located in the engine compartment. These plates include information such as model designation, engine and transmission codes, suspension options, paint identification and trim combinations used during production.
OUR Workshop Manual – Complete Service Information
While this guide helps identify common specifications and features of the VT Series II Commodore, the Holden workshop manuals available from Car Manuals Direct include the original specifications, adjustment settings and repair procedures used by Holden mechanics when servicing VT Holden vehicles and their standard mechanical components.