HDT No.001 to be auctioned in Sydney

The vehicle consigned is the first of the two - No. 001 - based on a 1979-model VB Commodore SL. Originally a GM-H company model, with a 4.2-litre V8 and auto, the HDT #001 has been in the current owner's possession since 1993.

 

Modifications by HDT from its original specification included the fitting of a 5.0-litre V8 with modified heads, larger valves, modified distributor and carburettor, plus a Turbo 350 auto transmission and larger rear end with a limited-slip diff. Bilstein shocks replaced the factory suspension, with German-made Irmscher wheels added, too.

 

Front and rear spoilers, along with wheelarch flares, previewed what was to come with the HDT production models, while the car's original Sage Green paint was topped with an upper section in Malachite Green, previewing the 'Shadowtone' two-tone treatment that debuted on regular Holden Commodores from early 1980. The grille and tail lights were also updated to VC spec by HDT as part of the conversion, with a Momo steering wheel, bearing build number '001', being the finishing touch.

 

After its promotional duties were done, Brock consigned the car for sale with Les Vagg Holden in Sydney in 1982. Sold almost immediately after, the salesman back then knew the owner and repurchased the car in 1993. A 15+ year restoration followed, which saw the engine and transmission rebuilt, some of the panels replaced, a full repaint and fitting of new carpets.

 

To be sold with a Certificate of Authenticity from HDT (confirming the car as the #001 prototype), along with other documentation and magazine articles, this car is an important piece of HDT and Australian motoring history.

 

VC HDT Commodores in comparable condition sell for around the $50,000 mark, but the one-off nature of the VB prototype has seen Shannons attach a $85,000-$95,000 guiding range to this car.

 

The HDT Prototype #001 will be auctioned at Shannons Sydney Winter Classic Auction on Monday, August 10.