WL Statesman luxury model: approximately $70,000–$75,000
The VZ featured minor styling updates over the VY, improved suspension tuning, upgraded electronics, enhanced safety features, and refined interior materials
The WL Statesman offered premium luxury trims, leather interiors, advanced comfort features, climate control, and executive styling for professional buyers. The WL Statesman would be known to be a spacious and comfortable car that felt much bigger inside than what it appeared on the outside.
Both models targeted Australian families and executives seeking modern styling, comfort, and reliability.
The VZ Commodore would bring about the introduction of the Alloytec V6 engine. Apart from timing chain issues around the 200 000km mark it would be known to be a solid, smooth and powerful engine.
Average wage
Average weekly wage: about $820–$840
Average annual wage: roughly $42,640–$43,680
Average house price
Around $320,000
Price of petrol
About $1.25 per litre
Prime Minister
John Howard (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
About 20 million people
Top-grossing movie
Shrek 2, Spider-Man 2
Top song
Yeah! by Usher topped Australian charts
Significant world event
Global technology and internet adoption accelerated
International focus on Middle East tensions and economic growth
Popular TV / radio in Australia
Home and Away, Neighbours, Rove Live, and A Current Affair
FM radio and music television shaped pop culture and youth trends
Significant Australian news story
Economic growth, suburban development, and automotive trends dominated headlines
The VZ Commodore and WL Statesman reflected mid-2000s Australian demand for modern, safe, and comfortable family and executive vehicles
Interesting comparisons
The VZ Commodore cost roughly 0.9 years’ average wages, while the WL Statesman cost 1.65–1.8 years’ wages
The average house cost about 7.5–7.7 years’ wages
Filling a ~60L tank cost roughly $75 AUD
A week’s wages could buy roughly 650–670 litres of petrol
