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

    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