We like
Big boxy wagon space, cabin room, comfort, gutsy yet economical V6, easy to work on, parts are cheap

Room for improvement
Boomy and unrefined wagon and drivetrain, undisciplined handling, iffy quality

THE Holden VN Commodore was released onto the market with much fanfare in 1988.

It used the previous model's floorpan with an all new aerodynamic body and was powered by a modified Buick V6 engine.

History has shown the package worked well and the VN went on to become a best seller. It has also proved to be tough and durable despite some initial questions over quality control. The bigger body, combined with the station wagon's 90mm longer wheelbase than the sedan, results in similar sized interior space to the VN's main rival, the EA Falcon.

The Executive sedan and wagon were aimed primarily at budget sensitive fleet buyers so keen pricing dictated a short equipment list. Power steering and an AM/FM radio/cassette were standard.

The Vacationer limited edition model under review here is based on the Executive equipment level with the addition of air- conditioning, electric mirrors and body coloured bumpers.

The large cargo area could be fitted with an optional rearward facing third seat with inertia reel seatbelts. This gave the Commodore wagon the ability to seat five adults and two children, making it an alternative to the specialist people-movers popular at the time.

The 3.8-litre V6 engine is a mixture of old and new technologies. Pushrod operated valves, cast iron cylinder heads and two valves per cylinder are combined with a modern engine management system.

The product is an engine which has ample power and good low down torque. It was revised for the 1990 model year with noticeably improved noise and vibration levels.

The four-speed automatic transmission has a lock-up torque converter which can be disabled using the T-bar selector.

Fuel consumption depends on how the car is driven and a good driver can be rewarded with surprisingly low consumption. Expect about 14.0L/100km in suburban conditions.

The suspension provides competent handling and a firm but compliant ride. Combined with the engine's strong low-speed torque and smooth automatic transmission, the Commodore has good all round performance and effortless highway cruising.

One of the reasons Commodores are popular with fleet managers is they are one of the cheapest cars to run on a cents-per-kilometre basis.

The engine, transmission and running gear are tough, last for a long time and, given reasonable treatment, are easy to repair.

Points to watch are corroded water pumps and expansion plugs, abnormal front tyre wear from misaligned suspension and rattling steering racks.

Tailshaft vibration when accelerating hard in the lower gears is a Commodore characteristic which annoys some drivers.

There is no magic in minimising the risk of buying someone else's problems. Look for a service history and have the car thoroughly checked before buying.

Unfortunately, Commodores are popular with thieves so make the necessary checks to ensure the car is not stolen and has a clear title.

The VN was continuously improved during its production life so it is worth spending a little bit more money if it will buy a later model.

The Commodore Vacationer wagon's combination of passenger comfort, luggage space and low running costs make it hard to beat for family transport.