When the Holden VH Commodore was released – Australia in 1981

Commodore Home

VH Commodore

Cost of a new Holden VH Commodore

• Base sedan models started at approximately $8,600–$8,800
• The VH featured slight styling updates with revised grille and tail lights, improved interiors, enhanced suspension, and mechanical refinements
• It maintained the Commodore’s reputation as a reliable, practical, mid-size family car with improved handling and comfort

Average wage

• Average weekly wage: about $190–$195
• Average annual wage: roughly $9,880–$10,140

Average house price

• Around $48,000

Price of petrol

• About 55 cents per litre

Prime Minister

• Malcolm Fraser (Liberal Party)

Population of Australia

• About 14.9 million people

Top-grossing movie

• Raiders of the Lost Ark, Chariots of Fire

Top song

• Physical by Olivia Newton-John topped Australian charts

Significant world event

• Global recession fears and oil price concerns shaped economic policies
• Technological innovation and cultural trends influenced consumer behaviour

Popular TV / radio in Australia

• Countdown, The Don Lane Show, Homicide, and Neighbours (early development)
• FM radio strongly influenced pop and rock music culture

Significant Australian news story

• Economic policy, rising car ownership, and suburban expansion dominated headlines

Interesting comparisons

• The VH Commodore cost roughly 0.9–0.95 years’ average wages
• The average house cost about 4.5–5 years’ wages
• Filling a ~60L tank cost roughly $33 AUD
• A week’s wages could buy roughly 345–350 litres of petrol