VB VC VH VK Commodore Repair Manual
Transition to a New Era
The HZ Holden represented the final iteration of Holden’s traditional full-size sedans, wagons, utilities, and panel vans, offering refinement, comfort, and V8 performance in Monaro and GTS variants. By 1978, Holden introduced the VB Commodore, marking a major transition from the classic Holden body style to a modern, mid-size platform inspired by the European Opel designs.
The VB Commodore represented a completely new approach for Holden: smaller, more modern, fuel-efficient, and aimed at a changing Australian market. It kept Holden’s performance DNA while bringing the brand into a new era of design and engineering.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
HZ Holden:
- Traditional full-size Holden body with muscular stance
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants
- Chrome trim and styling details emphasized Deluxe, Special, and Monaro trims
- Strong presence on the road with classic 1970s proportions
VB Commodore:
- Modern mid-size design inspired by Opel Rekord, smaller and more aerodynamic
- Sedan and station wagon variants introduced (utility followed later with WB)
- Sleeker lines with less chrome, more European-inspired styling
- Grille, headlights, and body panels more integrated and modern
- Less bulky than HZ, aimed at better fuel economy and urban appeal
The VB Commodore looked noticeably more modern than the HZ, reflecting late-1970s design trends and a shift toward mid-size practicality.
Interior Design
HZ Holden:
- Comfortable, spacious bench seating for six
- Dashboard with clear instrumentation and functional layout
- Interior trim upgraded in Deluxe, Special, and Monaro variants
VB Commodore:
- Smaller, more driver-focused cabin
- Modern dashboard with European-inspired instrument layout
- Front bucket seats standard, optional center console
- Interior quality improved with more refined finishes, particularly in SL/E trim
- Cabin felt smaller but more modern and ergonomic than HZ
The VB interior was more contemporary and driver-focused, though less spacious than the traditional HZ Holden.
Platform and Engineering Changes
Chassis and Suspension:
- HZ: Full-size perimeter frame, independent front suspension, leaf-spring rear
- VB: Mid-size unibody chassis with MacPherson strut front suspension, coil spring rear
- Improved ride comfort and handling for mid-size dimensions
- Lighter and more fuel-efficient than HZ
Brakes and Safety:
- HZ: Drum brakes front and rear, optional disc brakes
- VB: Front disc brakes standard on higher trims, better braking performance
- Safety features more modern, including improved seatbelt mounting and ergonomics
The VB provided a more modern, lighter, and agile driving experience compared to the HZ.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
HZ Holden Engines:
- “Red” six-cylinder engines: 173, 202 cu in
- V8 engines: 253, 308, 350 cu in (Monaro GTS 350)
- Rear-wheel drive, three-speed manual, optional four-speed/floor shift
VB Commodore Engines:
- “Red” six-cylinder engines: 186, 202 cu in
- V8 engines: 253, 308
- Rear-wheel drive retained
- Three-speed manual or optional three-speed automatic
Performance Comparison:
- HZ: Strong V8 performance, comfortable full-size driving
- VB: Lighter and more responsive mid-size platform, V8 optional
- VB emphasized efficiency and handling over outright size and power
Model Range Comparison
HZ Holden:
- 2-door and 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Deluxe, Special, Monaro, and GTS trims
VB Commodore:
- 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon
- Trim levels: SL, SL/E, and base models
- Focused on modern mid-size comfort, economy, and practicality
- Performance-oriented models introduced later in Monaro-based Commodore variants
The VB offered fewer body styles but represented a modern, practical, and efficient platform.
Technology and Features
HZ:
- Functional dashboard, optional heater and radio
- Basic controls, comfort and performance prioritized in higher trims
VB:
- Modern dashboard layout, driver-focused controls
- Optional heater, radio, and upgraded trim in SL/E
- More ergonomic seats and controls
- Lighter, more efficient platform improved driving comfort and handling
The VB interior emphasized modern ergonomics and driver comfort, a departure from HZ’s spacious traditional layout.
Driving Experience
HZ Holden:
- Comfortable full-size ride, solid V8 performance
- Spacious cabin, relaxed driving style
- Strong presence on highways and urban roads
VB Commodore:
- Lighter, more responsive mid-size handling
- More agile in urban settings, easier to park
- Sufficient power with six-cylinder engines; V8 optional for spirited performance
- Cabin quieter and more modern, though less spacious than HZ
The VB was a shift toward modern, efficient, and agile driving while maintaining Holden’s performance DNA.
Reliability and Common Problems
HZ:
- Very reliable, robust six-cylinder and V8 engines
- Easy to maintain, classic mechanical simplicity
VB:
- Reliable mid-size platform, lighter and easier to manage
- Some early VB-specific parts harder to source
- Overall mechanically simpler than modern vehicles, easier than later Commodores
Both models are dependable; VB introduced modern improvements and efficiency without sacrificing Holden reliability.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- HZ: Classic full-size Holden, collectible, particularly Monaro variants
- VB: Early Commodore, highly collectible as the start of a new generation
Parts Availability:
- HZ: Limited, but many parts available for Monaro and V8 variants
- VB: Parts limited but increasing interest from collectors
Running Costs:
- HZ: Larger, heavier, less fuel-efficient
- VB: Lighter, more efficient, cheaper to run, with optional V8 for enthusiasts
Collector and Enthusiast Value
HZ Holden:
- Appreciated for classic 1970s styling and Monaro/GTS performance
- Last of the traditional full-size Holdens
VB Commodore:
- Extremely collectible as the first Commodore generation
- Mid-size efficiency with European-inspired design
- Early SL/E and optional V8 models sought-after by enthusiasts
Choose HZ if:
- You want a classic full-size Holden with traditional style and V8 performance
- You value classic 1970s design and presence
Choose VB if:
- You want the first modern Commodore, with mid-size practicality and efficiency
- You value a modernized driving experience and collectible status
Verdict – Which Is Better? The HZ Holden represented the peak of Holden’s traditional full-size sedans with comfort, space, and V8 performance. The VB Commodore marked a new era, offering a smaller, lighter, and more modern platform focused on efficiency, agility, and contemporary styling. For collectors, HZ is prized for classic full-size appeal and Monaro/GTS models, while VB Commodore is celebrated as the beginning of Holden’s modern mid-size era
VB VC VH VK Commodore Repair Manual