HOLDEN VH/VK SL MARKET

IT TOOK considerable time for early Commodore V8s to be recognised in a market overwhelmed by significant Holden models. So long in fact that 30 years after ceasing production the VHVK series were in danger of being ignored into extinction. Value Guides from the past show VK Calais V8s a decade ago averaging only $6000 and taking until 2016 to climb past $15,000.

The VH and VK V8 were the basis for some of this country’s most iconic cars. The VH Group 3 and bluehued HDT VK Group A epitomised Peter Brock’s contribution to the nation’s automotive heritage and provided some justification for Holden to continue making V8 engines, The other was demand from police departments around the country; the setting where our featured ‘Q Car’ first turned a wheel in anger. When performance car values began to move in 2004-05, some owners finally realised that the authentic V8s being preserved in their garages might just be worth something and put extra effort into keeping those cars secure. And they were right. Although VH and VK Commodores in outstanding condition aren’t as yet matching the money being realised by V8 KIngswoods in equivalent condition, they have greater potential for continued growth. One version that might not be immediately apparent as a collectible is the V8 station wagon. These didn’t sell in big numbers but will serve in the dual roles of weekend family transport (find one with airconditioning if possible) and future investment. HDT also produced handful of SS-spec wagons which now cost less than the much more prolific sedans.