HSV literally rocked the performance car pages of the nation’s top car magazines with the release of the bright XU3 yellow VS GTS/R. Marketed as the closest HSV road car you could get to its race winning Holden Racing Team cars of the 1996 Australian Touring Car championship season.
To broaden appeal in 1996, HSV released the limited edition flagship GTS-R model which came standard with the 5.7-litre V8, Tremec T56 six-speed transmission and “Hydratrak” limited slip differential (LSD) package. Available only in a polarising bright yellow colour (known as “XU-3 Yellah”) with carbon fibre inserts and large rear wing, the GTS-R engine could be blueprinted for more power.
In total, 85 GTS-Rs were produced (10 exported to New Zealand).
| Quick Details | |
|---|---|
| Years Produced | 1996 |
| Number Produced | 85 |
| Engine | 5.7L V8 |
| Power | 215 kW / 475nm |
The GTS/R was only available in one colour – Yellah XU3 – the GTS/R retained the same 5.7L engine and 6 speed gearbox features in the regular VS GTS models with a HRT optimized blueprint option to yeild more power, the GTS/R featured other wild styling changes including a look-alike rear spoiler from the HRT race cars and Carbon fibre accents which were also used on the exterior for the first time in HSV production.
The HSV VS GTS/R featured an interior just as wild as it’s exterior with bright yellow accents and seats covered with the GTS/R emblems which make it standout from all other models.
Nicknamed the ‘BANANA’ (due to the colour) the VS GTS/R is a car that is easily recognisable and sure stands out from a crowd.
HSV VS GTS/R Specs
Engine Specs
The VS GTS/R retained the same 5.7L engine and 6 speed gearbox that features in the regular VS GTS models with a HRT optimized blueprint option to yeild more power for the cost of $10,000.
Engine: 5.7L Holden V8
Power: 215 kW @ 4800 rpm
Torque: 475 N⋅m @ 3600 rpm
Performance as stated in various press reviews:
0-100 km/h (60 mph) 6.2 seconds
Standing 400m (1/4 mile) 14.2 seconds
Top Speed: 248 km/h
- Air conditioning.
- 6 speed maual transmission.
- Low restriction stainless steel exhaust system.
- Sports suspension tuning package.
- ABS.
- Rear spoiler with clear lens stop lamp.
- Large chrome tipped exhaust.
- Glencoe sports front seat design.
- Four spoke leather covered steering wheel with telescopic adjust.
- Sound system.
- Power exterior mirrors.
- Power windows.
- Luggage restraint system.
- Fire extinguisher.
- Optional sunroof.
HSV VS GTS/R Images
