HSV W427 – 200 vehicle build cap
December 17, 2008 by Paul Maric
Holden Special Vehicles has today confirmed that it will cap the production of the HSV W427 at 200 vehicles – the final number will be determined when last orders are taken in June next year – and will eventually build another super-Commodore.
The $155,000 HSV is the most expensive HSV ever. Packing a 7.0-litre LS7 V8 engine, HSV claims it sprints from 0-100km/h in the mid four-second barrier, making it an ultra-fast Aussie hauler.
HSV Managing Director, Phil Harding said “The W427 program has been a great success, ahead of target and ahead of plan.”
The final W427 will roll off the production line in the latter part of 2009, prompting HSV to remind potential purchasers to place orders quickly for this very limited edition HSV.
“Existing W427 customers have told us they want to keep their purchase as exclusive as possible and some potential customers have asked us for clarification on exactly how many W427 Supercars we intend to build,” Mr Harding said.
“The confirmation of a total build number of 200 does this,” he added.
However, some customers may never know what it is like to really use their purchase as they are reputed to have put their purchase straight into storage.
“There’s a few I know of that have just been garaged,” Mr Harding said. “One customer has bought two – one to drive and one to keep.”
Mr Harding also told CarAdvice that the W427 program had been a complete success and as such would probably be repeated by HSV in the future.
“Although I don’t expect we will do anything similar inside three to five years,” he added.
HSV says 96 cars have so far been built and about another 40 orders, the car is only confirmed for construction when a retail customer places a confirmed order, are on hand, which leaves about 60 places in the order book for the remaining cars.
So if you’re intending on sinking $155,000 into a HSV, join the queue quickly!
Print it: 
I saw a red one driving on the road… in surfers the other week. I was very surprised.
Go the might HSV. This is the greatest car on the planet.
do they estimate that 200 is the number of 7 litre engines that will be built in the US before GM is bankrupt?
I was under the impression that they were going to build 427? Thats probably right Dlr1. I wonder how they’re gunna go getting spare parts for these things too when they break…
Yes Originally they were going to build 427 W-427’s However; when they built the VL Walkinshaw SS Group A they were oroginally going to build 500 of them but due to popularity/demand they built another 250 of them.
One of my mates ordered a Walkie but was annoyed when he found out that they were going to build an extra 250 as it detracts from the exclusivity.
Some of which were delivered with the Whale Tail bodykits etc in the boot – because it was too close to the release of the VN SS Group As.
Which could be another reason for HSV to limit it to 200 W-427s because by June they will be close to releasing the next generation of HSVs
HSV are dependent on the supply of 6.2 and 7.0 Litre V8s from the USA
But I doubt the reason they’ve revised their figures and decided tolimit production to 2OO is due to the possibility that GM will be bankrupt by then
It’s more likely because thats the number of ZR-1 Corvette LS3’s HSV have been Allocated up until June by which time the VF Series is likely to be out
Besides GM have released a statement outlining thier restructuring plans etc – which includes Holden on to Holden because of their expertise and flexibility etc.
So there is a possibility that they may start building V8’s here again at the Holden Engine Company – be it Holden 5.0 Litre Cadillac Northstar or Chev LS3’s]
I never really expected to sell 427 HSVs anyway
The most limited edition HSV was 2 Tooheys 1000 VN SS Group As that were pained Black both of which are in WA
So maybe 200 is the number of LS3s HSV have been allocated up until next June next year by which time the VF HSVs will be out
I just read this as “We cant find 427 people stupid enough to pay $155,000 for a taxi with a giant motor.”
That maybe…However; at east HSV have found more people than what TRD have to buy their FWD Shopping Trolley with a baby-blower and a Bodykit or their Jacked-Up Pick-Up with “Go Fast” Stripes.
The fact HSV and FPV have 2-3 month waiting lists for their cars whereas TRD doesn’t shows what locally built cars car enthusiasts prefer.
BTW: When are TRD going to reduce the price of the Aurion again? it’s been a couple of months since the last [3rd] one.
Oops – I meant: I never really expected to sell 427 HSV 427s anyway.. They’ve sold more than 427 HSVs [obviously]
the back looks like the current commodore… yawn
A good point well made Wheelnut. Although, Toyota have never realy had the same blind following that both Holden and Ford have in Oz. Even if they made a direct competitor to the HSV/FPV stuff I doubt it would sell. Which is a shame really, as I’m sure it would be far more reliable!
I tend to disagree B-man.. If Toyota don’t have a blind following why would people continue to buy Corollas given that there are so many other cars available that are just as reliable [as the corolla] with better performance and handling; safety features and more creature comforts etc
Because going from your initial comment that is what you were illuding too [was it not] – why would someone spend$150K on a car like the W427 when there are other cars with better specifications etc around for the same price.
Yes that was the point i was trying to make, but cars like the Corolla and the HSV 427 appeal to a completly different demographic. I think that is probably one of the reasons the TRD vehicles have not been selling anywhere near the numbers that Toyota would have liked, as Holden and Ford are so established within their target market, as the Corolla is in it’s market. I think we both may be arguing the same point here, I should have worded my last post a little better.
Apologies!
I think if the TRD Aurion was RWD they would be selling a heap more. As to the HSV 427, why would you buy this when you can get a Mercedes C63 or BMW M3 for the same money??! It just doesn’t make sense.
“I just read this as “We cant find 427 people stupid enough to pay $155,000 for a taxi with a giant motor.” ”
Exactly what i was thinking
hehehehehehehe…me too, but I wouldnt say it for fear of a tirade of abuse from the pro holden camp. A big pass from me. 200? Jag said that they were only going to sell 220 of the XJ220 (which did 220mph in the 1980’s by the way – why are we so excited about this thing doing 270kph in 2008?) and then sold plenty more later.
As someone has pointed, what reason do I have to purchase this vehicle over a Mercedes C63, BMW M3, Lexus ISF or Audi RS4?
The European and Japanese rivals, are just as quick, probably better through corners, much much more refined and have more respect attached with them.
The only people buying this car will be Holden fan-boys.
Any product that has huge demand would be capitalized on i am sure. Why, if there are so many buyers, would they limit production to just 200?
As wheelnut said the Walkinshaw limit was increased by another 250 units because of demand.
I think the truth might be they have had trouble filling orders (notice they did not confirm how many had sold) and had to come up with a reason to get this product back in front of the punters. They are using fear to motivate any potential buyers into action who might have been sitting on the fence by limiting the amount. Shame really, it is an awesome car and in a way this limit will probably see it become an investment as the car becomes a classic. Better then investing in shares at the moment.
427 was the maximum number they were going to build! but I believe with the current financial crisis and backlash against big v8s. They have stopped at 200 so there isnt a heap of unsold expensive hsv,s on dealers floorplans, who cant afford to keep them either so big discounts would follow to move them on..
The HSV W427. The fastest American car Australia has ever built.
To HSV, I assume you’ve never driven anything other than a Holden then? Because if you had, you would be saying different. HSVs are hardly the greatest cars on the planet.
The W”427″ ceasing production at 200 cars? Transalation W427 “not selling”. And they’re obviously not because if they were so special, they would have all sold out in a matter of days. I thought they had and I am actually surprised but then again, you must be a very proud Australian to spend that much on that car. You could get and M3 or a C63 for that! You’d have to be an idiot.
$155K for this…you serious??!!!
Ok Holden you have your overpriced corvette with american quality interior – BUT DONT COME TO ME for tax payers bailouts!
I find it extremely funny that the moment someone has a bad word to say about a GM-Holden or Ford product they straight away start bagging out Toyota. In particular the TRD Aurion and how crappy FWD is as a distraction from the real topic of a $155k Commodore with a huge American built engine in it. Gee some people must be very insecure! Very amusing!!! As good as it may be, and I’m sure it is, I’ll stick with something like an M3 or C63 etc for that coin. Also PLEASE don’t bring up the “but you can’t tow a boat with an M3″ argument because I doubt that would be the main reason someone would buy a W427!!! TVFPIC (flame suit on!!)
Wheelnut Says:
December 17th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
“That maybe…However; at east HSV have found more people than what TRD have to buy their FWD Shopping Trolley with a baby-blower and a Bodykit or their Jacked-Up Pick-Up with “Go Fast” Stripes.”
I am not defending the TRD here – but do you not see the irony when you, a Holden aficionado, are making reference to “Go Fast stripes” and “bodykits”?
“The fact HSV and FPV have 2-3 month waiting lists for their cars whereas TRD doesn’t shows what locally built cars car enthusiasts prefer.”
If that’s the case why is there mad discounting all over the place? Dealers are trying to clear brand new HSV’s mate – I don’t see anything resembling these waiting lists you refer to.
“BTW: When are TRD going to reduce the price of the Aurion again? it’s been a couple of months since the last [3rd] one.”
Perhaps they’re waiting for Holden and HSV to do another discount with their vehicles…
Wheelnut Says:
December 17th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
“Which could be another reason for HSV to limit it to 200 W-427s because by June they will be close to releasing the next generation of HSVs”
Come off it mate – the reason is because they can’t find enough deluded idiots to fork out $155K.
HSV Your sweet dreams love affair contuinues.
With what Holden needs a 7 litre V8 that a FPV F6 will equally in performance which only needs 4 litres. Nearly
twice the capacity. Oh thats right the F6 does ‘ave to put up with the 1950’s “pushrod O.H.V cyl.heads which virtually NO other car man. handicaps their cars with.
You can probably pick up a Nissan GTR for the same price that holden’s offering for this beast
both HSV and FPV do a lot more to differentiate their cars from the donor vehicles than just whack on some go fast stripes and a bodykit – they upgrade virtually every part of the car.
Remember TRDs first attempt in Oz – there was an engine fire.. gives you an idea as to how well it was put together. It could also be a reason why TRD sales are so sh-t [pardon the pun]
Despite all Toyotas resources and money they couldn’t make a blown [supposedly F1 Inspired 6cyl] that produces as much power as a V8 [like FPV did with a low tech I6] now that would have been impressive.
You may say TRDs aren’t meant to compete against HSVs or FPVs yet TRD is Toyotas “Performance” division just like FPV is to Ford and HSV is to Holden. So comparisons are valid and if STi can build Imprezas that can beat the Aussie V8s why cant the worlds wealthiest car company?
Devils Advocate – same could be said for those who consistenly bag Holden and Ford in a nattempt to try and defend their beloved Toyota could it not?
I am a Holden Fan but I am willing and able to admit that some of their products aren’t as good as those available from other manufacturers – I mean If I was after a 6cyl sedan I would go for an XR6T, if i was after a Full Size 4×4 I would probably go for a Hilux. However: I am yet to see a Toyo-phile say a similar thing about a Corolla or Hilux etc.
Thing is the traditional Ford v Holden Rivalry has virually disappeared on this site – and been replaced with Holden/Ford vs Toyota – because we are proud of our local auto industry and the cars we make
A bit of a contradiction in all as Holden announced at the Melbourne Motorshow during the release of the W427 that they held a list which contained a couple of hundred potential / interested buyers and that the original amount of 427 vehicles to be assembled will not be enough.
Now only 200 will be produced.
So what happened with the list of potential buyers and the original target of 427 examples.
Wheelnut : i believe the TRD Hilux has been relatively popular and found a sum of buyers in no time at all. My local dealership sold thier first 2 examples in as many weeks. I have also been lead to believe the sales of the TRD Aurion has been slowly but surely improving aswell.
HSV been selling fast cars in Australia for 20 years while TRD has only been at in Oz for only 18 or so months.
However, by the sounds of it with the IS-F, it appears it won’t take them long to move of those then HSV will do with the W427 and that is despite the import restrictions.
Wheelnut : given the The General’s dire position, they would dare not artifically restrict production especially on big price tag commodities like the W427 as they are desperately chasing every dime and penny they can find. The only reason for such restrictions will be demand driven or in this case, lack off.
As for the regular HSV units, i notice they have drastically slashed the prices on many models with some that can now be purchased with savings of anywhere up to $9250 from the original tag.
Wheelnut you made some valid points, one mistake though
your comment on “Low-Tech” was ment for the holden/chev V8
with pushrod O.H.V “1950’s Tech” as the Falcon 6 cyl. has
D.O.H.C 4 valve tech. No one bothers with ” pass-use-bye-date” O.H.V.
The Europeans and Japanese sit back and laugh at THAT
[O.H.V]inefficently
Wheelnut : goes to show how much you understand, or very little off more accurately.
The TRD Aurion is upgraded in many respects from the donor car aswell including engine / supercharging, brakes, suspension, exterior and interior which is pretty much in line with the efforts from HSV and FPV.
As for the lone and a very lonely single engine fire may i add, that is a far cry from the tens of hundreds of GEN3’s that were returned to Holden or the several hundred clutch replacements issued on the early FPV’s.
Besides, the W427 is a $155 000 motor vehicle so in all fairness should be compared directly against the IS-F, M3, RS4 and AMG C63 but i assume you are not so confidant with such comparisons.
Why would that be ????
Wheelnut : you asked why the world’s wealthiest car company carn’t build a car to beat the Aussie V8’s.
They did .. the IS-F and it is a much more highly engineered / developed performance car in every respect.
Good thing having the IS-F because makes redundant many of your comments.
Wheelnut : that is right, we are proud of our local manufactuers which means some of us are glad to have Toyota as one of those parties.
No McKay it’s reasonable to compare the W-427 to the IS-F and the other European Perfomance Cars because there are some areas where the W-427 would be better and others where the IS-F would be better and I expect more where the Germans would be better than both the W-427 and IS-F?
One area where the W-427 is better than the IS-F is definetly Handling – it has adjustable suspension
Don’t forget a couple of months ago Top Gear did a COmparison with the VE Clubsport R8 and a number of European Sports Sedans that are around the same Price [in Aussie Dollars] and the Clubbie was able to hold its own so one would assume the W-427 would be able to do just as well
Wheelnut : handling !!
Please tell me that is a joke.
The European Comparison i sighted which encompassed the M3, IS-F, AMG C63 and V’hal R8 by Fifth Gear – the R8 was left for dead in everything ranging from 1/4 mile sprints to circuit handling.
Final conclusion :
1. M3
2. IS-F
3. AMG C63
4. R8 and a long shot behind.
Here is an example of a proper test and not a one lap wonder :
Go around once, go around twice, go around again and again and again and again and every lap completed i can assure you any HSV or FPV for that matter will get further and further behind.
In the event you may have bothered to read a number of local reviews about the IS-F, you would be familiar that Lexus supplied 2 examples at Phillip Island on test day for the media and potential customers with one of them busy clocking lap after lap of the circuit while the second example been flogged on the skid pan for hour after hour and every report i have sighted have stated the same -the IS-F stoodup to the half-day torture without fault, overheating or fading of the brakes.
On the otherhand, HSV’s are notourious for breakdowns on track day and if they don’t, you can be assured thier performance will deteriorate quickly.
That is the dfferance between the engineering of a M3, IS-F, AMG C63 and RS4 as apposed to a HSV .. there are no comparison especially when it comes to consistancy and i am sure Car Advice will agree with me.
Ok they are not selling 427 of these vehicles, but 155,000 for any car is a tall order. How many GT-R\’s are Nissan planning to sell in Australia?
LOL…LOL…LOL
Am I reading that someone here actually believes this car would handle better than anything from Germany, Italy or Japan over 100k?
Always remember this guys, PPL who drive european or Japanese cars NEVER downgrade to Holdens or Fords…
But ppl with Holden and Fords always aspire to one day one a Euro or Jap car.
McKay:
A R8 is not a 427! A R8 is about half the price of the cheapest of the other cars.
Frenchie good point.
Lemme think… $150 for GTR with latest technology, tested and PROVEN on the Nurb….
or $155k for a overpriced corvette with some Brembo’s slapped on and a fire extinguisher as a luxury option.
I do know someone who was very keen on getting one but soon as he herd of the dates and the prices were confirmed for gtr for about the same money hes placed a deposit down for the nissan gtr.I think hes done the right thing i dont think a commondore is going to be any were near a gtr all round that is not just straight line stuff but as a all round car the gtr will destroy the holden
Topdog : the GTR is so good is destroys alot of things although i have heard because of the transmission issues, launch control will be removed.
Eitherway, they don’t come much better then a GTR
Elitist : too true !!!!!!
Yes very true Mckay i told him that thay will prob remove lauch control and my mates just said thay prob would not have used it any way .Thay also promised to take me for a ride so i cant wait even more so than them to ride in one i think its going to be a buzz
Topdog : a ride in a GTR will feel like being launched of an aircraft carrier in an F-18 .. sure to be a pants packing buzz alright.
People never go from Euro to Aussie cars? I call your bluff as I did so. Sold the CLK500 (A209) for a Calais V V8. It is faster, handles better with better weight distribution and a faster acting manual mode. That is a $55k Holden VS a $180k Merc. As Wheels constantly say, VE is the best Aussie built chassis. Period. Best balance and handling. Ride is not on par with rivals tho, and chassis is left down by lower spec drivetrain options. Doesn’t change the fact the turn in is second to none in this country and with magnetic MRC suspension, bigger brakes and a bigger engine. Whoever said the FPV Turbo six can keep up with W427 is dreaming. And as usual, HSV has given it the perfect wheel/tyre combination: a skill Ford are yet to achieve. Taxi my arse, BA’s are the shitty taxis.
But unfortunately, the W427 is out of its’ depth in terms of C63 and M3. IS-F is probably a closer match, IS250 chassis way of the mark with C and 3 series.
Is it just me or should the W427 have used the LS9 insted?
Anyone who thinks OHV are out of date, you are right, but remember the scorching ZR-1 Nurbs’ time. They can still be more than competitive. You’d never go BOSS over LS.