1981 Holden VC Commodore SL – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 16.01.2020

3.3lt six, auto, good body, no rust, SLE dash – very clean

While visual changes for the updated VC of 1980 were hard to discern from the preceding VB, the big change came under the bonnet.

Holden’s new line of ‘blue’ motors meant more than different paint on the rocker covers. Underneath, the new engines were an evolutionary step up from the old ‘reds’, gaining 12 port heads, a two-barrel carburettor and a new manifold.

The two V8s (4.2lt and 5.0lt) also gained new heads, as well as electronic ignition and new intake and exhaust manifolds. The 4.2lt also gained the four-barrel carburettor which previously adorned the 5.0lt only.

There was also the dreaded inclusion of the Starfire four-cylinder, which while touted as the economical option, was quickly lamented for its lack of power and flawed design.

 The VC Commodore up for grabs today is a 1981 SL, specified with the 3.3lt six and auto (most likely the three-speed Trimatic).

The body is reportedly in very good condition, with good white duco and no rust.

The seller’s listing hints at a reconditioned radiator, engine and transmission; and has maintained the car with new tyres, exhaust, brakes, hoses and digital temperature monitor.

Inside the mostly original and clean interior sits an SL/E dash and vanity mirror, protected by a dash mat.

The seller says the car drives "like new" and, from the photos, looks to be a very well-cared for car throughout.

The VC SL is listed for $18,000 and is based in Victoria.

Check out the full listing here!

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