1988 Holden Calais VL review from Australia and New Zealand

Seats have started to wear.

But it has been constantly been driven day to day.

Snapped two rocker arms and bent two rods.

But the car has taken more than its fair share of abuse.

The torque and power are amazing, minor engine work is needed and the outcome is more than noticeable.

Interior is Calais, has to be kept clean as most of it is cloth (door trims, Roof lining, Glove box) but for factory interior it surpasses most new vehicles I have been in.

Engine is suprisingly durable, it can take a sharp rev up-to 6000 rpm with no problem.

The car is not for people who prefer comfort. The engine revs and shakes the car as a V8 was meant to.

Suspension is stiff and well balanced as the V8 comes with FE2 suspension, which is the suspension that the police models use.

Fuel economy is effected by the most minor alteration, at the moment the car has, extractors, a stage 2 cam shaft, full 3 inch exhaust, limited slip diff, and minor head work, and now uses about 27 litres per 100km.