WK Statesman luxury model: approximately $65,000–$68,000
The VY featured refined styling over the VX, improved suspension and handling, updated interiors, new alloy wheels, and enhanced safety features. That said, it would still feature the same (albeit refined) engine and transmission options.
The VY would be the last commodore to offer the very popular ECOTec V6 engine that was first introduced in 1996 with the VS Commodore. Both the VY and the WK V8 models would be powered by the popular 5.7L LS1.
The WK Statesman offered luxury appointments, advanced comfort features, premium leather interiors, and optional technology packages
Both models targeted Australian families and executives seeking modern styling, comfort, and reliable performance.
Average wage
Average weekly wage: about $780–$800
Average annual wage: roughly $40,560–$41,600
Average house price
Around $290,000
Price of petrol
About $1.10–$1.20 per litre
Prime Minister
John Howard (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
About 19.5 million people
Top-grossing movie
Spider-Man, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Top song
How You Remind Me by Nickelback topped Australian charts
Significant world event
Rise of digital technology, internet adoption, and globalisation shaped business and lifestyles
Preparations for the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester and post-9/11 global security focus. 9/11 was in the rear view mirror but the shocks were still being felt.
Popular TV / radio in Australia
Home and Away, Neighbours, Rove Live, and A Current Affair
FM radio and music television remained influential in shaping youth culture
Significant Australian news story
Economic growth, suburban expansion, and technology adoption dominated headlines
Interesting comparisons
The VY Commodore cost roughly 0.9 years’ average wages, while the WK Statesman cost 1.6–1.7 years’ wages
The average house cost about 7 years’ wages
Filling a ~60L tank cost roughly $72 AUD
A week’s wages could buy roughly 650–675 litres of petrol
