Last of the Aussie 5.0s | Build number 29 of 99
When the VT range was released in mid-1997, the new entry-level Clubsport (with the former entry-level Manta being dropped) was critiqued for not being exclusive or desirable enough over the Commodore SS – as they both utilised the Australian-made 5.0lt V8.
The VT II Clubsport was due in 1999, and with it came a GM-sourced 5.7lt V8 LS1.
In order to use up the remaining Aussie 5.0s, HSV built 99 VT1 XU8s.
The XU8 was positioned below the VT Clubsport, and above the SS Commodore. It lost out on the Clubsport’s superior tyres and front foglights, and had a softer suspension tune.
It was fitted with either a GeTrag five-speed or a four-speed automatic, and did have an LSD.
It’s reception was a bit underwhelming in its day, but in a more classical sense, a softer-sprung VT Clubby could be an awesome weekend cruiser. Remember, there are only 99 of these things out there too!
This one is build number 29, reportedly all original and on factory wheels.
It’s finished in what looks to be Orion Silver, and presents very well with 240,204kms on the odo.
There’s little wear on the steering wheel, shifter and dash and; the paint hard to fault from the photos.
The car is available via Pennant Hills Auto Traders in NSW, and is listed for $13,990.
Seems like a lot of car for the money, and as a rare limited-build late-model all-Aussie sedan; we reckon it deserves a loving life!
Check out the full listing here!
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