HSV Senator
The HSV Senator is a sporty luxury sedan that is manufactured based on the Holden Commodore 1992 Holden Special Vehicles in Australia. The cars have rear wheel drive and currently current E- series with the 6.0 -liter V8 engine will be built in Elizabeth (South Australia ) and assembled in Clayton (Victoria). Until recently there was no direct competitor for this car, but in October 2006, Ford announced the Ford Performance Vehicles Falcon Force 6/8 on to competitors. Other competing models are the BMW M5 and the Mercedes- Benz CLS-Class. The Senator Signature is the luxury model in the HSV range and offers the electrically adjustable suspension Magna Ride, with a sporty or comfort-oriented setting of the chassis can be chosen. Sales prices start at AU $ 76,900.
- 3.1 Senator 300
- 3.2 Senator Skaife Signature Series Z
Construction and Development
The development and testing of technology HSV cost about 6 million AU $. The construction of the current series was in the hands of Julian Quincy and began with a visit of the HSV design team in Holden design center in Port Melbourne in February 2003, where you visited a finished Holden VE Commodore SS. Until now, there were few complaints about the construction of the current Senator Signature except hidden handbrake. The electrically adjustable suspension Magna Ride was used for the first time in an Australian car in the HSV Senator Signature. With a switch on the dashboard, the suspension can be converted from a comfortable tuning to a sporty tuning.
The Senator Signature is the fifth car in the world that has this technology; the first was a 2002 Cadillac, then came Audi, Ferrari and Chevrolet. Ian Callum designed the VR, VS, VT and VX. The aim was to build a car that had a "soft" and pleasant image. One sees this orientation at Club Sport R8 models, which competed against some European brands. Over time, these cars were increasing in popularity, but because of their high price, they did not come off so well in the press. But this is not frightened HSV; There were already nine different models since the first VP. Of these, one sees only a few in daily traffic, most are seen in museums and exhibitions. The name of Senator was always an expression of authority, not of aggression, in contrast to the Clubsport. Also chrome trim were used sparingly to the Senator, if only because his sister models Clubsport R8 and Commodore not overly draped with chromium.
Models
VP Senator
HSV VP Senator (1992-1993)
The story began when, in 1991 the Holden VN Commodore was replaced by the Holden VP Commodore. A year later, the first senator was introduced, which was based on the VP model. The new car should offer both luxury and sportiness, and are provided to Holden Statesman models with long wheelbase to the side. The new senator had a softer styling than the Clubsport and GTS models, but the independent rear suspension, which also offered the better Commodore models and the Statesman. There were only a handful of cars on the basis of the Commodore, which had a climate control system. Other facilities offered included leather interior, cruise control and limited slip differential. Also, a three-spoke steering wheel was installed. The top speed was 220 km / h The car was there with a 5.0 -liter V8 engine with 245 bhp (180 kW ), a five-speed manual transmission or a four -speed automatic from GM. There were two versions: the standard model and the Senator 5000i with more power. A total of 382 cars were built.
VR Senator
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In 1993, the significantly revised VR Senator, which was based on the Holden Commodore VR, the first radical overhaul since the 1988 VN Commodore. At this time the Senator was the luxury saloon with a short wheelbase for wealthy customers and even stood over the Calais. The rear seat was from Statesman. Together with the HSV- sister models, the Senator from Ian Callum has been reworked and made more streamlined and aggressive. He received the 252 bhp (185 kW) version of the 5.0 -liter V8. It was a new chassis developed - offered as a " Touring Package" that the new power level offered reasonable driving safety and comfort. As of May 1994, there was the Senator with the new HSV " Stroker " engine 215i, a 5.7 -liter V8 with 292 bhp (215 kW). For a surcharge of AU $ 10,000 the handmade engine was available as an option. In addition there was a six-speed manual gearbox or the existing four-stage automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0-100 km / h abolished the 185I in 7.8 s and the 215i in 6.9 s Total originated from two versions of 855 vehicles.
VS Senator
HSV VS Senator II (1996 )
1995 VS Senator was introduced, which was based on the Holden Commodore VS. This time, body, equipment and aluminum wheels were only slightly revised. In VS Series II, the ISS ( Integrated Security System) was introduced as standard HSV, as well as controls for the stereo system in the steering wheel. The customers had the choice between the 185I and the 215i engine. By December 1995 416 units were built, at least 439 vehicles less than the predecessor.
VT Senator Signature
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The new VT Senator Signature 1997 got the larger, all-new Holden VT Commodore of the body. Also new was the combination of the Senator Signature, the first cluster in the HSV model range. When introduced it cost AU $ 71,650. To select an improved 5.0 -liter V8 engine with 265 bhp were (195 kW) and a 5.7 -liter V8 engine with 299 bhp (220 kW). The cars had standard speed-sensitive power steering, which adapted itself to the road and environmental conditions, and a deluxe suspension with Monroe Sensatrac - shock absorbers. In contrast to other HSV models had the senator a radiator grille with single chrome trim, side panels, front fog lights and 17 " alloy wheels with 10 spokes. The car was lowered, had leather seats and extensive Holzimitatvekleidungen. There was also a remote tire pressure monitoring and air conditioning.
The worm and sector resembles that of the Senators of the E- series with Variatronic - Servo. The independent rear suspension and the Sensatrac shock with adaptive damping rate ensured comfortable and safe driving. Coordinated Also on the leather seats door panels were installed. In addition there was of HSV helper for the driver, such as a flashlight, a tool for removing the axle caps and a pocket knife. In the VT Series II 5.7 - liter Senator a new V8 engine with 340 bhp came (250 kW) ( the LS1, which was also incorporated in the Chevrolet Corvette C5), who was now standard, and the combination was accounted again.
Special, multi-adjustable seats have been introduced to provide the driver with even more comfort. Some of the optional equipment available were:
- High -performance suspension, 18 " alloy wheels from the WH Grange, better brakes and better seats - AU $ 3800, -
- Satellite navigation - AU $ 4,277, -
- Premium sound system - AU $ 2706 -
- Electrically operated sunroof - AU $ 1995 -
- Improved brakes - AU $ 5,550, -
The street location of this version was better than the previous one, because the car had better suspension, but by the harder coordination of comfort had suffered somewhat. The measurements were
- Length: 4918 mm
- Width: 1824 mm
- Height: 1404 mm
- Wheelbase: 2788 mm
- Weight: 1720 kg
The torque of the new V8 engine from USA with 473 Nm ensured a high acceleration of the car.
A six-speed manual transmission and a four- automatic was available at extra cost. Airbags front and sides, automatic climate control and traction control were supplied as standard. The automatic system could be switched into a Sport mode with a "Power" label switch in which the gears were turning higher. For the stowage of small items were in the interior pockets on the back of the front seats and on the doors, a large glove compartment and a compartment in the center console, and a larger trunk available.
VT Senator Signature Combi
This car was also called HSV Senator Signature Estate Wagon. There were two versions: the 195i and 220i to (indicated by appropriate markings on the tailgate ). The numbers gave the power in bhp. Some options were: improved braking system, rain sensor for the windscreen wipers and a comfortable suspension. Leather interior and climate control were standard. The option of a sound system offered 350 W sound power and six-disc CD changer. On request, there was also comfort seats of Coulson. The 17 " x 8 " aluminum alloy wheels have ten spokes. Today there are only a few of these vehicles.
VX Senator
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For the first time the senator also offered rear parking sensors. On request, there was a navigation device or a sunroof. The four-stage automatic transmission has also been delivered, as well as four-wheel disc brakes front ventilated. The cars were 4964 mm long, 1842 mm wide, 1450 mm high and 2788 mm wheelbase had. The weight was 1710 kg and the gasoline consumption in the city at 18.1 l / 100 km. The fuel tank took 75 liters There was a leveling at the rear, a CD player with magazine for 6 CDs and a sound system with 8 speakers. ABS and traction control ensured for increased security. The interior was fitted with leather and the dashboard clad in dark wood imitation. On request and at an additional cost, there was also an improved braking system, a navigation system and an even better sound system.
Senator Series Y
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The new Holden VY Commodore based on the Senator in 2003 was now Senator series Y. The new nomenclature confused many customers who still called the new car VY Senator. The design was still edgy and there was a basic model senator and the better-equipped Senator Signature. Both models had an improved suspension, rear parking sensors and a LS1 V8 engine with 354 bhp (260 kW). In addition to the features of the basic model offered the Senator Signature 19 " alloy wheels ( instead of 18 " in the normal senator ), different seats and a larger brakes on the front wheels. When Senator Series Y / II engine output increased to 388 bhp (285 kW).
Some of the additional facilities offered at the Y series were: board voltage and oil pressure display in the Centre Speedo, leather and displays with a white background. A leather steering wheel for better grip and memory functions of the electrically adjustable front seats were introduced in order to facilitate adjustment to different drivers. HSV also revised the upholstery of the front seats after complaints about a lack of comfort.
As standard, the car with the CD magazine, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, power windows, cruise control, air conditioning, immobilizer and central locking were equipped with remote control. In addition there was a rear built-in DVD player and headphones. Front and side airbags included throughout the model range of the standard equipment. Two safety features have also been added: an electronic tire pressure monitoring and xenon discharge lamps as low beam and high beam. Multi-link independent rear suspension was offered in series, but not a navigation system and a sunroof, which were supplied at extra cost.
The engine is concerned the well-known 5.7 -liter V8 LS1, which developed 354 bhp (260 kW ) of power and 435 Nm of torque. The car was thus referred to as Senator 260. The air vents for the brakes and engine cooling systems are covered, in order to emphasize the luxurious character of the vehicle. The visible air intakes up front are covered with wire mesh. The fender lower edge and spoilers, as well as the underside of the mirrors were painted in Satin gray, the rest in the body color. The known Senator emblems can be seen on the sides of the vehicle, at the rear of the vehicle and on the rear doors below.
Inside, there were aluminum pedals, new colors, a new four -spoke steering wheel with remote control for the sound system, instruments with white background and smaller displays centered on the dashboard. The multi-function screen displays when you start the vehicle, the HSV logo and the chassis number. Automatic climate control and a 6- disc CD changer from Blaupunkt ( with 8 speakers ) are standard equipment. The finish of the interior is maintained in the carbon fiber and leather. The base price for this Senator was AU $ 74,000.
Senator Series Z
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2004 saw the senator Z series, but without the signature model, which was omitted. The car was based on the Holden Commodore VZ and showed smoother, more refined design and standard 19 " alloy wheels. The drive was a new 6.0 -liter V8 engine with 404 bhp LS2 Series (297 kW), as it was also used in the Corvette C6. The new exhaust ends gave the car a deeper engine noise. The weight rose to 1735 kg; in 5.0 s accelerated the car from 0-100 km / h and the top speed was electronically limited at 273 km / h. The petrol consumption was officially at 10-12 l / 100 km, but could in the city up to 18-22 l / 100 km to rise.
The cars were 1450 mm high, 4984 mm long, 1842 mm wide and had a wheelbase of 2788 mm.
Optional extras were a sunroof (AU $ 2390 - ), a navigation unit (AU $ 3800, - ), a DVD player for the rear seat passengers (AU $ 3900 - ), Xenon headlights (AU $ 1800 - - ) and an electronic Reifendurckkontrolle (AU $ 1395, - ) available. The seats were upholstered in nappa leather. The brakes were equipped with ABS and the front brakes have perforated discs and two pistons. The independent rear suspension was fitted with self-leveling, so the Senator eg when pulling a trailer does not go down to the rear. This equipment has also been adopted in the current Senator Signature of the E series.
As a sign of luxury, the grille still got a chrome frame and ten-spoke alloy wheels. On request, the interior was available in suede. The senator corresponded priced in about the Clubsport. The brakes were a generation of ABS 8.0 Bosch. With the new engine (see above) was the Senator made the fastest car in Australia.
Senator Series E
HSV Senator E Series (2009)
The current Senator Signature Series E is based on the Holden VE Commodore and was presented in August 2006 with an engine power of 417 bhp (307 kW). Again, it is a 4-door sedan with 5 seats, with a gross vehicle weight of 1600 kg. As standard, the car is equipped with an automatic transmission and leather seats. The development costs of the Series E exceeded that of the series VT, VX, Y and Z together. Overall, the HSV Senator Signature is much more luxurious than the price corresponding Holden Calais.
The Senator E Series is 4943 mm long and 1899 mm wide. The stopping distance from 100 km / h is about 36 m. The car is equipped with 19 " alloy wheels with chrome trim. Inside you will find accents of carbon fiber and metal imitation. For the first time there is no imitation wood, like its predecessors. The tail lights are fully equipped with LEDs, and to distinguish it from contemporary Holden Commodore placed 120 mm lower, giving the car a sprotlich - luxurious flair. The development costs of the Series E stood at AU $ 3.0 million. Designers have designed the Senator more luxurious than aggressive. The starting price is AU $ 76,990, -, about AU $ 4000, - less than its predecessor.
As the GTS E series has the Senator the electronically adjustable suspension Magna Ride, which can be adjusted to comfort or performance. This is done by changing the viscosity of the ferrofluid to which the shock absorber are filled. This system also provides advantages during braking, because it prevents pitching movements of the vehicle. The development took 3 years and cost HSV AU $ 4.5 million.
As standard, the car with automatic climate control, a Blaupunkt sound system, an on-board computer, parking assist, traction control, ESP, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors and power windows equipped. The indicators for oil pressure, vehicle electrical system voltage, oil temperature and coolant temperature are now digital. The interior is in light beige, white or black surface finish. The carpets remain dark as in the contemporary Holden Calais model. There are also a number of special features, such as one mounted under the roof DVD player, a parking assistant for parking maneuvers forward, rain sensor for the windscreen wipers and Courtesyleuchten. Also a built-in navigation system is available.
The HSV Senator is a revised 6.0 -liter LS2 V8 engine, the 418 bhp (307 kW) at 6000 min-1 and a torque of 550 Nm at 4400 min-1 delivers. Acceleration from 0-100 km / h in under 5.1 seconds and the top speed at 273 km / h
Special models
Senator 300
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This model was introduced in 2001 along with the VX series and also offered along with the successor of Y series. Some details of the standard equipment were: 10 -disc CD Changer, 8 -way power adjustable front seats, imitation wood on the dash, electric windows, Climate control, ABS and side and front airbags. This top cost AU $ 98 850, -. The Senator 300 was unveiled at the Melbourne International Motor Show to the public. A total of only 33 units were built, of which 7 pieces to New Zealand were exported. The V8 engine was tuned by Callaway and delivered 408 bhp (300 kW). It was combined with a manual six-speed gearbox. ABS and first-class brakes with perforated discs were mounted in the 18 " alloy wheels with chrome trim. The acceleration of the car from 0-100 km / h took just 5.3 seconds and the quarter mile in under 13.9 he mastered see
Senator Skaife Signature Series Z
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This car is a special model based on the senator's Z series with the V8 Supercar driver Mark Skaife self-designed specialties. As standard, the car was equipped with a four -speed automatic. The abovementioned specialties included a new paint called " Phantom Black " and aluminum wheels with chrome trim. Inside the vehicle offered imitation wood, a remote release for the tailgate, ABS, music system with eight speakers and a DVD player for the back seat passengers.