HSV SV300 VXII

The GTS, the ultimate symbol of HSV muscle, has been replaced with the SV300. So what's new, you ask? The VX2 SV300 looks pretty similar to the VX GTS which looks pretty similar to the VTII GTS, and they all have 5.7-litre V8s pushing out 402 horsepower (pretty scary stuff). So, the answer is: not much, but let's go through the features anyway. The engine is the previously mentioned Callaway-developed C4B 5.7-litre unit, which makes 402hp and 376lb-ft of torque. The power goes from it through the 6-speed T56 manual transmission to a Hydratrak limited-slip differential with a final drive of 3.91:1 (this sure sounds familiar). You get 343mm cross drilled and ventilated front rotors and 315mm rears for the brakes, with ABS.The exterior receives a few touchups: some badges and most importantly, a chrome grille in the lower part of the fascia. All in all, this HSV is still the BMW M5-rattler it should be: it is as fast as the '5 - and even faster in certain conditions such as the Nuergburgring - and more willing for a hard thrash. The steering is very communicative, the car very stable and will pull a very decent 0.85g on the skidpad while throttle-on oversteer is accessible and controllable. The engine and gearbox lag slightly behind the German's in terms of both all-out go power and refinement, but for a price equivalent to less than $50K US in Australia, the VX2 is an unbeatable choice. - by Traian Popescu

See more: HSV SV300 VXII Photos, HSV SV300 VXII Technical Data