While previous HSV cars had been limited to a 5.0-liter
displacement to allow them to compete in Group A races, the VS GTS-R sports a
5.7-liter engine providing 288 horsepower, with an extra 13-20 horsepower being
available with the optional engine blueprinting package. Combustion chambers
are matched, compression ratios equalized at 8.85:1, camshaft-timing optimized
and all reciprocating parts balanced as part of the blueprinting process. Other
features on the GTS-R include the T56 6-speed manual transmission, independent
rear suspension, Hydratrak differential, a low restriction stainless steel
exhaust system, the most un-subtle carbon fibre rear wing, 17-inch wheels and a
yellow paint job inside and out. Only 85 of these cars have ever been built,
and all sold at a price of about $76,000 AUSD for the base model, plus another
$10,500 for the engine upgrade. Oh, and forget about ever getting your hands on
one if you don't live in Australia or New Zealand! - by Traian Popescu
Specifications Standard / Blueprinting Package
| Base Price, AUSD | 76,000 / 86,500 | Engine Type | OHV 16-valve V8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain Layout | Front engine, RWD | Displacement, cc | 5737 |
| Horsepower@rpm | 288@4800 / 301-308 | Torque, lb-ft@rpm | 350@3600 |
| Curb Weight, lb | - | 0-62 mph, sec | 6.6/6.1 |
| 1/4 mile, sec | 14.8@96.3 / 14.4@100.3 | 600 ft slalom, mph | - |
| 70-0 mph, ft | - | Top speed, mph | 150+ |