A true Aussie legend, the 1988 Holden Commodore VL Turbo was where raw power met street presence. With its RB30ET 3.0L turbocharged inline-six - this machine delivered a punch well beyond its weight class, making it an instant favourite among enthusiasts and tuners alike.

A factory-fitted Garrett turbocharger, electronic fuel injection, and a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual gearbox gave it serious straight-line performance, while the lightweight body and independent front suspension made it a solid handler for its era. Whether tearing up the streets or cruising low and slow, the VL Turbo was, and still is, an icon of Aussie motoring.

The SL trim kept things simple but stylish: plush velour seats, an unmistakable boxy yet aerodynamic silhouette, and that signature quad-headlight front end that still turns heads today.

The Australian Police commissioned the turbocharged models as their "interceptor" Highway Pursuit cars of choice. These interceptors were denoted by "BT1" in the model code on the Body & Option plate attached to the firewall.

From late-night highway pulls to car meet nostalgia, the VL Turbo is a piece of Aussie history—one that still demands respect.

THE CAR

Finished in classic Marlin Blue, this stunning 1988 Holden Commodore VL Turbo BT1 was used as an “interceptor” police car and has been extensively restored.

Delivered new by Eagers Holden Retail in Newstead, Queensland in March of 1988 to the QLD Police for Senior Detectives based in Alderley, she has her original service delivery booklet and build sheet.

Still fitted with the original stock Blue cloth trim, “plain clothes” rims and factory exhaust – this example is clean and true to her roots.

The 3.0L (183ci) RB30ET turbo-charged inline-six engine is smooth and puts power to the road via a 5-speed manual transmission. These cars were made to perform in high-speed highway chases and handles appropriately. Many BT1s were specially ordered without power steering as an option, for better road feel during a chase scenario.

Other changes specific to the police cruiser variants include no radio, no sound system and a blanked off aerial.

Truly unmolested BT1 Commodores of this era are getting harder and harder to find thanks to extensive modifications – this vehicle is a true example of Australian history with all the style and power of such a legendary Aussie icon.