THE STORY Launched in 1995, the HSV ClubSport represented Holden Special Vehicles’ refined approach to Australian performance motoring during the VS Commodore era. Positioned as the entry point to HSV’s V8 range, the VS ClubSport balanced muscular performance with everyday practicality, encapsulating the essence of the Aussie sports sedan.
Under the bonnet lay a 5.0L fuel-injected Holden V8, tuned by HSV to produce 185kW and 400Nm of torque, and paired with either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. Power delivery was smooth yet forceful, propelling the car from 0–100 km/h in under seven seconds. HSV’s suspension tuning, a limited-slip differential and upgraded brakes provided sharp and confident handling,
Visually, the 1996 VS ClubSport distinguished itself with its aggressive body kit, bold front bumper, rear spoiler and unique HSV badging. Inside, the cabin featured bolstered sports seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and distinctive HSV instrumentation, combining comfort with a clear performance focus.
Produced in limited numbers, the VS ClubSport helped cement HSV’s reputation for building locally engineered cars that could stand proudly against imported performance sedans. Today, it remains a celebrated symbol of Australian automotive passion - powerful, purposeful, and unmistakably HSV.
THE CAR Finished in gorgeous Panther Mica and sitting on 20`` Simmons mag wheels, this 1996 HSV VS ClubSport has had serious extensive mechanical upgrades over the years, while still maintaining its classic appearance.
The numbers-matching 185kW Holden 5.0L V8 engine has been rebuilt by well known supercharger specialist engine builder Marks Workshop. The engine has a Yella Terra 2.4 Whipple Intercooled Supercharger, a custom 4`` air intake and 90mm throttle body. The engine internals include a Scat Stroker Crankshaft, Scat 4340 H Beam Conrods, SRP Pistons and Steel Ring set, ACL race engine bearings, ARP Studs, Cometic SS MLS head gaskets, Camtech Performance camshaft, a high-volume oil pump, a Dual Row timing chain set and a Powerbond billet steel centre harmonic balancer. An MSD 6AL ignition has also been installed with an MSD Blaster Coil and a Hi Torque starter motor. For cooling, a larger aluminium radiator with thermo-fans has been installed.
The 044 Bosch fuel pump is mounted in the boot under the parcel shelf, with a large swirl pot and rubber-bonded mounts, a Fuelab fuel pressure regulator and Speedflow fittings with braided hoses.
The transmission has been upgraded too, it’s now a reconditioned T56 6-speed manual gearbox with a large single-plate hydraulic clutch system, topped off with a Short Throw gearstick.
The exhaust system consists of a ceramic coated Pacemaker 1 3/4`` silver headers with high flow catalytic converters through to a full stainless steel Mandril bent 2 1/2`` twin system.
The brakes are Wilwood with 6-Piston front brakes, 4-Piston rears and VT rear backing-plates (required for the Wilwood handbrake setup). Suspension is stock HSV on the front, but in the rear there are Bilstein shock absorbers with heavy duty Bilstein springs.
In addition to the above, the power steering rack was reconditioned in 2021, and this car had a closed-door respray in 2022. The front and rear windows were removed, new weather seals installed and a new windscreen fitted. The C pillar and window trims were all reconditioned and a new leather gear knob was installed as well. The remainder of the interior is in excellent condition and the car has been fitted with an aftermarket Kenwood Bluetooth head unit.
The above suite of upgrades have turned this HSV VS ClubSport into a true demon on the road, with a power output of 411kW and superbly enhanced braking and handling capabilities. This car looks and sounds fantastic.
