HSV VT Senator 195i and 220i




Introduced in 1997, the VT Senator and Senator Signature gained the larger all-new bodyshell of the VT Commodore and also heralded the introduction of a Senator Signature wagon for the first time into the HSV range. An upgraded 195 kW (261 hp) 5.0-litre and 220 kW (295 hp) 5.7-litre V8 engines were offered.

The VT Senator Signature came standard with speed-sensitive steering which would act in different ways depending on the road and surrounding conditions and luxury suspension tuned featuring Monroe Sensatrac shock absorbers. Appearance differed from other HSV models with the use of a chrome single-slat grille, and smaller low line rear spoiler and unique 10-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels. The suspension was lowered, with leather seats and woodgrain standard on the Senator Signature.

Quick Details
Years Produced 1997 – 1999
Number Produced Sedans
323 (195i)
208 (220i)
10 (10th Ann)
Wagons
27 (195i)
(220i)
Engine 5.0L V8
5.7L V8
Power 195kW / 430Nm
220kW / 475Nm
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The steering featured the Variatronic power assisted rack and pinion technology. The independent rear suspension and luxury front and rear Sensatrac variable rate dampers fitted made for smooth ride control and high speed stability. Additionally, HSV added complementary special features which were for the driver rather than the car, such as a Maglite torch, wheel nut cap remover and a multi-purpose pen knife.

A choice of two transmissions were offered a 6-speed manual and 4-speed automatic. Front and side airbags, climate control air-conditioning and traction control are some of the features that come as standard. By activating a certain button in the cabin labelled “power” the automatic transmission holds the gears in longer, this gives the car more acceleration power. Storage wise the cabin offers, pockets behind the seats, door pockets, a large glove box and a console bin plus the larger boot.

The Senator Signature Estate Wagon had two versions available with this version the 195i and the 220i these was known by the badges found on the rear. The numbers that were chosen was to illustrate the power the cars had. Some of the optional features included an upgraded braking system, rain sensing wipers and luxury tuned suspension. Leather featured heavily throughout the vehicle and dual climate control was to enhance comfort for the passengers throughout the large wagon. A special entertainment audio system is only available as an extra option it includes a Premium audio pack with 350 kilowatt power amp and 6 stack CD. There is an optional Coulson ‘performance’ front seating which is for extra comfort.

HSV VT Senator 195i and 220i Specs

Senator 195i

Engine: 5.0 litre, V8
Power: 195 kW @ 4800 rpm
Torque: 430nm @ 3600 rpm

Performance as stated in various press reviews:
0-100 km/h (60 mph)
Standing 400m (1/4 mile) ?
Top Speed: ?

Senator 220i

Engine: 5.7 litre, V8
Power: 220 kW @ 4800 rpm
Torque: 475nm @ 3600 rpm

Performance as stated in various press reviews:
0-100 km/h (60 mph)
Standing 400m (1/4 mile) ?
Top Speed: ?

Powertrain: Limited Slip Differential (Hydratrak with 220i) Standard
Stainless steel exhaust Standard
Mechanical: HSV Speed sensitive steering Standard
Rack & Pinion power steering Standard
Independent rear suspension (IRS) Standard
HSV ‘performance’ brakes with ABS:
-220i
-195i
Standard
Optional
HSV ‘premium’ brakes with ABS Optional
‘Performance’ suspension tuning package Optional
‘Luxury’ suspension tuning package
(incorporating Monroe Sensatrac)
Standard
Exterior: Fog lamps Standard
Side skirts Standard
Rear spoiler with clear stop lens Standard
Power side mirrors in body colour Standard
Variable intermittent windscreen wipers
(road speed sensitive)
Standard
Electrical: Electric rear window demister with auto off timer Standard
Electronic Cruise Control Standard
Digital Clock in radio Standard
Headlamp auto-off (programmable off delay) Standard
Headlamp auto-on Standard
Trip computer (3 window) Standard
HSV 250km/h speedometer Standard
Tachometer Standard
Holden “Tech2” diagnosis of all major electronic control systems. Standard
Deadlocks Standard
Remote 2-stage key for doors and boot
– arms/disarms alarm system
– priority key system
Standard
Theft attempt warning and report Standard
Audio: AM/FM radio cassette, electronic tuning, memory, auto reverse, Dolby NR, diversity antenna, linked to priority key Standard
260 watts
8 speaker
inc. sub woofer
10 stack CD Player Standard
Premium audio pack with 540 watt power amp and 10 stack CD Optional
Power antenna with height memory, linked to priority key Standard
Steering wheel mounted radio control buttons Standard
Seating: St James ‘Luxury’ seat design Standard
Coulson ‘performance’ front seat design
Optional
Electric front seats, driver & passenger 8-way
Leather trim Standard
Children: Power window override switch Standard
Rear door child locks Standard
Cabin Comfort: 4 spoke leather covered steering wheel Standard
Fire extinguisher Standard
Electric sunroof (option to delete) Standard
HSV ‘Vanity’ pack Standard
Storage: Rear seat centre access to boot Standard
Carpeted boot floor & deck lid Standard
Luggage restraint system Standard
Security: Additional microprocessor based engine immobiliser with encoded key (ISS) Standard
Radio/cassette security electronics using PIN Standard
Full immersion body corrosion protection Standard
HSV wheel locknuts Optional
Identification: Lion & helmet badge – hood Standard
Model ID badge on boot lid Standard
Instrument panel badge (exclusively numbered) Standard
Wheels & Tyres: 10-spoke 17″ x 8″ alloy wheel
235/45 ZR 17″ SO-2 tyre
Standard

HSV VT Senator 195i and 220i Images

Interesting Facts

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2018-06-09T14:19:54+10:00