1984 Holden Commodore SL Station Wagon review from Australia and New Zealand
"On a budget, try this"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Difficult to start when acquired. Eventually traced to missing tooth on distributor drive (plastic) gear, rotor not lining up.
Starter motor failed - possibly damaged by faulty distributor.
Radiator, exhaust, shock absorbers, differential and rear uni joint, fuel pump, indicator stalk, odometer and alternator all repaired - reasonable considering age of car.
Still to fix - Air conditioner compressor seal leaks.
General comments?
Cruises easily at all legal speeds on highway, tends to be sluggish up steep hills - particularly if 3 speed auto drops down to second gear.
Comfortable seats and ride, handles well and safe roadholding.
For the budget buyer these early model Commodores offer low initial cost, cheap spare parts and servicing (do it yourself) costs.
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![]() ![]() | Good first Car, Cheaply fixed, Fair performance |
![]() ![]() | 1983 - Commodore VH 308 stroked out 355 A true Champion |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.3 petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 153000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 238600 kilometres |
| Previous car | Holden Commodore |
| Date of Entry | 24th May, 2002 |

