Australia vs Australia — 2006 vs 1978
| Commodore HSV GTS-R W1 | Commodore VL Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 636 hp | 204 hp |
| Torque | 601 lb-ft | 251 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,162 cc | 2,960 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 3.9 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 193 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 11.9 sec | 15.1 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,866 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,915 mm | 2,668 mm |
| Length | 4,936 mm | 4,712 mm |
| Units Produced | 300 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $60,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2006 Holden Commodore HSV GTS-R W1 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1978 Holden Commodore VL Turbo answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Holden Commodore. The 2006 and 1978 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2006 Holden Commodore HSV GTS-R W1 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 636 hp compared to 204 hp, a 432-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Holden Commodore uses a V8 Supercharged OHV 16V displacing 6,162 cc, while the Holden Commodore VL relies on a Inline-6 Turbo SOHC 12V with 2,960 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2006 Holden Commodore HSV GTS-R W1 edges ahead at 3.9 seconds versus 7.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 2006 Holden Commodore HSV GTS-R W1 commands a significant premium over the 1978 Holden Commodore VL Turbo, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1978 Holden Commodore VL Turbo rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.