1988 Holden Calais VL

This Holden Commodore is a sought-after muscular Australian sporting saloon, in high-performance ‘Turbo BT1’ configuration. It is powered by a rebuilt turbocharged Nissan ‘RB30ET’ inline-six, delivering 150kW to the rear wheels through a replacement five-speed manual transmission. The seller states that this particular VL is one of around 15-20 built after the newer model was already released, produced to fill a request from the Victorian police for additional VL Turbo cars instead of the newly launched VN. This is reportedly denoted by the ‘R’ suffix at the end of the chassis number. The odometer indicates 176,888 kilometres, though this is not warranted. Build year: 1988 The Commodore VL Turbo BT1 was designed as a police pursuit vehicle and featured a Nissan ‘RB30ET’ engine with a Garrett turbocharger, larger brakes, a five-speed manual transmission, and independent front suspension. This example is finished in its factory hue of Absinth Yellow with silver bumpers and trim over a beige cloth-trimmed cabin. It rides on a set of 15-inch wheels, fitted with Comforser tyres. Equipment includes air conditioning and a radio-cassette player. Modifications comprise lowered suspension, an intercooler, and an aftermarket exhaust. Accompanying the sale is a police-style cap and soft toy wearing a ‘Police’ vest. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: wear on the driver’s seat. The car is reported to have been resprayed. The most recent vehicle inspection was reportedly conducted in 2022. There is a valid Victorian registration in place, which expires on 7 December 2025. In January 2023, Chasers Performance replaced the gearbox and rebuilt the engine. An invoice documenting works and totalling AU$38,525 is available in the photo gallery. This Holden Commodore Turbo BT1 is a rare and sought-after Australian sporting saloon, designed as a police interceptor and packing an impressive punch from its turbocharged Nissan engine. The seller also notes that this is particularly rare being among 15-20 ‘R suffix’ VL Turbos produced after the VN was already released, to meet a request from the Victorian police. Finished in the bold colour of Absinth Yellow and fitted with a few aftermarket upgrades, it would make an interesting addition to a wider collection of Aussie sports cars as well as an enjoyable and nostalgic companion for weekend trips to car shows and events.