1981 Holden Commodore VC review from Australia and New Zealand

In the 7 months nothing major or expensive.

When I got it the odometer did not work so the 100,000kms has no meaning, replaced it from another VC commodore from the wreckers. Voltage, fuel and temperature replaced. Whole dash cost $25 bucks. Temperature gauge I feel is not accurate and doubles its level with the engine off and ignition on, but I don't believe the engine has overheated.

Three speed automatic transmission has gradually over the seven months lagged changing from 1st to second, or more accurately skipped to third after a long time in 1st even at 60kph, manually changing to second when cold does not work. Now even when hot it can stay in 1st and jump to third leaving a one second gap of no power at all. Been told just need the servo bands re-calibrated and new transmission fluid, cheaply done.

Changed the Rochester carburettor to 34ADM weber got increased power and fuel economy (from 320kms to 390 60L in suburbs) but now I need to use 98octane fuel and flashlube (valve saver) to avoid pinging. Might try out water injection/induction which I understand can increase octane of ULP 91octane to 110octane. Contact me at rauli_tech@yahoo.com.au for more info.

Fair bit of rust around the doors. Some bodgy bodywork done by dealer, who does not exist anymore.

Very comfortable to drive and handles well.

Parts are abundant and cheap. Car is easy to work on.

Impressive reliability and when something is going wrong you will know and be able to drive the car home at least.

All the power I have ever needed even uphill, although I have to floor it. Any moderate incline on the highway and you have to keep the economy gauge in power range to stay at 100kph. Better of with a 5 speed manual than the trimatic for long trips.

Plenty of space for 5 people, and in the boot of this station wagon.

Very good car considering its age and has started first time, every time.