Z Series ClubSport

Replacing its 285kW/510Nm 5.7-litre Chevrolet Gen III LS1 V8 with an altogether more serious 6.0-litre Gen IV LS2 version for the VZ Commodore-based Z Series range constituted HSV’s most extensive development program ever.

Launched to great fanfare at the 2004 Sydney motor show, the upgraded Z Series range leapfrogged FPV’s 5.4-litre V8 range by offering a 297kW/530Nm (ECE) version of the LS2 pushrod V8 that powers the C6 Corvette and Aussie-built Monaro-based Pontiac GTO.

Measured in the DIN rating Ford uses, that’s 305kW. But it’s a different, higher-revving 6.0-litre V8 to the Gen IV iteration that’s now became standard across the Holden range from 2006.

The substantial power-up of HSV’s range also spelled the end of the 300kW GTS sedan and coupe flagship, while the Senator Signature was also discontinued.

Other Z changes included an updated Tremec T56 six-speed manual gearbox from the VZ Monaro (which also provided the GTO with bonnet scoops) revised gearing, a heavy-duty clutch, an upgraded Performance braking system, an optional six-piston AP Racing brake pack and Control Link IRS for Maloo, plus VZ Commodore updates like Bosch 8.0 ABS and traction control.