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Prototype HSV GTSR W1 to be auctioned, $500,000 expected

Following a number of record-breaking auctions in recent weeks, another HSV GTSR W1 has emerged – but this particular vehicle comes with its own unique history.


This 2017 GTSR W1 was one of four pilot vehicles used to develop the W1 before the model went into production, complete with the tag 'E002' – with 'E' standing for 'evaluation' – and it will be hitting the auction block within weeks.

Publicised as the fastest and most powerful Australian car ever made, around 300 of the special W1 models were eventually made by HSV, featuring a 6.2-litre 'LS9' supercharged V8 producing 474kW and 815Nm.

In late January 2021, one of only four HSV GTSR Maloo W1 utes sold for $1.05 million, one of the highest known prices paid for a mass-produced, Australian-made road car. It came around the same time the 'last' Holden Commodore sold for $750,000.

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Of the four W1 sedans used in the pilot program, this particular vehicle is the only one to be painted in Jungle Green – a colour not available in the final production.

It's believed this W1 underwent hot-weather testing in Darwin, as HSV engineers worked towards ensuring the high-performance engine could cool itself effectively in all conditions.

The car also features signatures of Supercar drivers Jamie Whincup, Shane van Gisbergen, and Craig Lowndes on the engine cover following their 1-2-3 finish at the Sandown 500 in 2018, as well as the limited-edition HSV W1 watch.

Interestingly, this isn't the only evaluation vehicle currently on the market, with Aussie Muscle Car Sales currently offering 'E004' in white for $605,000. It's understood both black and grey pilot vehicles were also made.

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Much like the Maloo W1 utes, pilot cars were only offered to those within HSV's inner-circle. It's understood E002 went to a known collector, with this being the first time the car has been publicly offered for sale.

With just 17,318km on the clock, a spokesperson for auctioneers Grays told Drive they are expecting the green W1 to attract bids in excess of $500,000, given the rarity and historical prominence of the vehicle.

The online auction for the Jungle Green 2017 HSV GTSR W1 'E002' will begin on 18 February 2021 and finish on 23 February at 21:00 AEDT. Click here to view the listing.

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Ben Zachariah

Ben Zachariah is an experienced writer and motoring journalist from Melbourne, having worked in the automotive industry for more than two decades. Ben began writing professionally more than 15 years ago and was previously an interstate truck driver. He completed his MBA in Finance in early 2021 and is considered an expert on classic car investment.

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