1999 HSV Clubsport R8 – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 26.09.2019

Aussie Modern Classic: VT II with the larger 5.7lt V8, auto, two owners

The HSV Clubsport name was introduced by famed marketing manager John Harvey, who saw it put "the V8 performance car back into the reach of Mr Joe Average".

It was the layman’s HSV: the family sedan for the driver who dropped off the kids at school and then chose to take the long windy road home.

The VT-generation Clubsport arrived in 1997 with a 195kW 5.0lt V8 under the snout. It was critiqued at the time, as its powerplant was also optionable on the standard Commodore SS, taking away much of the exclusivity and desirability.

Holden was quick to respond in 1999, replacing the old 5.0t donk with the then-new Gen III 5.7lt V8 with a new benchmark of 250kW.

Gearbox options were either a six-speed manual or the popular four-speed auto.

Late-model VR-VT Clubbies have climbed a little over recent times but still remain relatively inexpensive to step into and run. Parts are still relatively easy to find too, given the cars’ younger vintage.

Now that our local manufacturing industry is little more than a memory, we’re confident these youngtimer Lions will enjoy renewed interest in time to come; and you might do well snapping one up now.

This Tiger Orange 1999 HSV VT II Clubsport R8 gains the updated 5.7lt GenIII V8, and like most is specified with the four-speed auto.

It’s reportedly a two mature owner, country car with 160,000kms travelled.

It’s described as "excellent", with great paint and body, cold air-con; and with new strut bushes, engine mounts, drive belt, rear muffler and cats.

The steering rack has been reconditioned and the car has no oil leaks.

Overall, it looks to be a seriously well-kept example with barely only minor creasing on the leather front seats, and clean throughout.

The car is based in New South Wales and is listed for $14,999 (or best offer).

Check out the full listing here!

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