1989 Holden Commodore Executive review from Australia and New Zealand

Hole in thermostat, engine overheated.

Rust in door sills.

Head lining starting to sag.

Gearbox is starting to become noisy.

Interior rattles quite badly.

Before this I owned the same model, but with an auto box, the 5 speed feels nearly twice as quick, wheel-spins easy in 2nd gear.

In stock form this car is one of the quickest I've driven (feels faster than a VN SS manual).

Handling is average, I recommend lowered springs (I have Lovell's Super lows).

Brakes are OK for a 17 year old car, could be better.

Interior is very basic and not very comfortable, I've upgraded mine with Leather seats from a VN Calais, they are extremely comfortable and make the interior look so much better.

Steering wheel is way too big (feels like you are driving a bus). I recommend upgrading for a smaller sports steering wheel.

Manual version struggles for traction when you give it a bit, I've fixed this with a Limited Slip diff (with 3.45 ratio for better acceleration) and bigger wheels and tyres (18" VY SS).

Unfortunately this car is the most stolen in Australia (mine has already been stolen once) I definitely recommend getting an alarm and Immobiliser.

VN's are one of the most common cars around therefore you can buy them from about $500. The performance is unmatched for this price.