A rare and powerful Australian pickup truck, the Holden Commodore ute, is set to go up for sale at a Mecum auction in Chattanooga in mid-October. This particular version of the ute is even more special, as it is the Maloo built by HSV, a company that was renowned for producing high-performance Holden cars until the General Motors-owned brand was retired in 2020.
The 2016 HSV Maloo R8 LSA that is up for sale is equipped with GM’s LSA V-8 engine. This supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 originally produced 550 horsepower in the Maloo R8 LSA, but the car that will be auctioned has been modified to deliver 625 horsepower, as stated in the auction listing. The modifications include a cold air intake, new headers, and a larger pulley for the supercharger. The power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The odometer of the Maloo shows that it has travelled less than 20,000 miles, making it relatively low in mileage for a vehicle of its age. In addition to its performance capabilities, this Maloo has also undergone a conversion to left-hand drive to make it suitable for driving on U.S. roads. Australians drive on the left side of the road, so the conversion was necessary. The left-hand drive conversion was performed by Left Hand Utes, a Denver, Colorado-based company. The conversion involved replacing the right-hand-drive components with OEM parts designed for the related Chevrolet SS, which was a rebadged Holden Commodore sedan.
Interestingly, GM had previously explored the possibility of importing the Commodore ute as a Pontiac G8 Sport Truck in the late 2000s. However, the plans were abandoned due to emissions regulations and GM’s bankruptcy, which ultimately led to the discontinuation of several GM brands, including Pontiac.
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Aside from the Maloo, another HSV vehicle, a 2011 HSV Clubsport R8 Tourer wagon, will also be featured at the Mecum auction in Chattanooga. This wagon is expected to captivate car enthusiasts with its performance and practicality.
The Mecum auction in Chattanooga presents a rare opportunity for U.S. residents to own a piece of Australian automotive history. The Holden Commodore ute, particularly the HSV Maloo version, is highly sought after for its powerful performance and unique design. Car enthusiasts and collectors alike will eagerly gather at the Chattanooga Convention Center on October 13-14 to witness and bid on these exceptional vehicles.
As the auction draws near, the anticipation builds for potential buyers who are eager to add these iconic Australian vehicles to their collections. The 2016 HSV Maloo R8 LSA, with its impressive power and left-hand drive conversion, promises an exhilarating driving experience on American roads. The 2011 HSV Clubsport R8 Tourer wagon, on the other hand, offers a perfect blend of performance and practicality, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a versatile yet thrilling driving experience.
In conclusion, the Mecum auction in Chattanooga provides American car enthusiasts with a rare opportunity to acquire an Australian-made Holden Commodore ute, specifically the legendary HSV Maloo. With its powerful engine, unique design, and left-hand drive conversion, the Maloo is sure to attract considerable attention and interest. Additionally, the presence of the HSV Clubsport R8 Tourer wagon adds further excitement to the auction. Car enthusiasts and collectors will gather, eager to take home a piece of Australian automotive history. The auction on October 13-14 at the Chattanooga Convention Center will undoubtedly be a memorable event.
