Early HSV Group A prototype with HRT V8 heads to auction

An important car in the history of Holden’s performance division is coming up to auction, complete with a hand-built V8 from its racing team.

A 1990 Holden Special Vehicles VN Commodore SS Group A claiming to be an early homologation prototype is currently being auctioned.

As this vehicle was used by HSV for on-road engine testing, the Commodore received full compliance tags and road registration.

While most prototypes are crushed after 36,000km of testing, the owner claims this HSV prototype was given a second life as a race car for Bathurst 12 Hour winner Peter Fitzgerald – complete with a hand-built 5.0-litre V8 from Holden Racing Team – competing in the 1992 race with engine number 92E 001.

It would become what is believed to be the first road car to receive an HRT engine – predating the iconic 1996 HSV VS GTS-R, which offered an HRT-built engine as a $10,000 option.

The HSV eventually became a promotional vehicle for Strathfield Car Radio’s racing team, and was fitted with a comprehensive aftermarket sound system.

This particular vehicle was eventually brought back to its original road-going prototype specification, including restoration of its Alpine White paint – a point of difference with the prototype, as most of the 302 Commodore SS Group A production cars were painted Durif Red.

The new owner will receive a letter of authenticity confirming the HRT engine, and an exact 1:18-scale replica model of the vehicle from Biante – which released a limited run commemorating the prototype back in 2018.

It’s understood the vehicle was previously up for sale for $550,000, though at the time of writing the current bid is $50,000.

To view the auction listing, visit Collecting Cars by clicking here.

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