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 | |
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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 |