VN (1988 to 1991)

The Holden VN Commodore (produced between 1988 and 1991) was a monumental shift for the brand, introducing the wider "aero" body and the first Buick-sourced 3.8L V6 engine, which finally put Holden back on top of the Australian sales charts. In the 2026 Australian market, the VN has moved from a "budget" project car to a genuine collector's piece; market values for a clean Executive or Berlina with the 5.0L V8 typically range from $28,000 to $45,000 AUD, while the luxury Calais can command between $35,000 and $58,000 AUD. The absolute titans of this era are the VN SS Group A SV (the "Durif Red" plastic-fantastic) and the HSV SV5000, which in 2026 are trading between $180,000 and $350,000 AUD for investment-grade examples. Its desirability is surging due to "eighties revival" nostalgia and its reputation as a lightweight powerhouse—especially when paired with the T5 manual—attracting a buyer pool of Gen X and Millennial collectors, drag racers, and HSV purists who appreciate the raw, unassisted driving feel of the VN. Locally, liquidity is highest for Series II models (released mid-1990 with the improved engine mounts) and those in iconic shades like Phoenix Red or Alpine White, as 2026 buyers prioritise cars that have survived without the common "drooping headliner" or cracked plastic dashboard issues.

The Holden VN Commodore (produced between 1988 and 1991) was a monumental shift for the brand, introducing the wider "aero" body and the first Buick-sourced 3.8L V6 engine, which finally put Holden back on top of the Australian sales charts. In the 2026 Australian market, the VN has moved from a "budget" project car to a genuine collector's piece; market values for a clean Executive or Berlina with the 5.0L V8 typically range from $28,000 to $45,000 AUD, while the luxury Calais can command betwe… Read more