VE or Monaro?

[Pepps]

Im gonna bite the bullet and get some finance for a new car.

I was gonna get a cheap VT or VX and do some decent work to the engine but I thought..stuff it.. upgrade!

Im weighing up the pros and cons on either a Monaro or a VE SS sedan.

Im only interested in a 2003+ Monaro, preferably VZ model.

Looking at around the $30+ mark for what I'm after.

Then there is the VE...

Found a couple around the $25-30K mark, so a bit cheaper.....but its another commodore..

Only interested in a manual.

What would you do!?

[DCV1NU]

The monaro would be my choice, only cause they're not being made anymore so you dont see many of them around.

[Keepup]

Monaro if u can get a CV8Z

[corsa]

Yep, I'd go for a Monaro. Good looking car, future classic.

[Pepps]

Yeah that is one HUGE positive. That they are no longer made..

[iloveholden]

I have the same budget and am going to get an SSV ute :)

I want the newish feel of a VE and i they ride and drive better than the previous chassis imo

[Deco28]

Monaro if u can get a CV8Z

I sawa mint Orange CV8Z at a Holden Dealer being serviced. I was next door at Mitsibishi and just sat there looking at it and exploring it :D.

Love them much.

However the VE is a class above it for refinement.

[corsa]

I have the same budget and am going to get an SSV ute :)

I want the newish feel of a VE and i they ride and drive better than the previous chassis imo

I've just purchased a MY10.5 VE SSV ute, they are awesome, smooth and fast!!! you'll love it!!!!:goodjob:

[iloveholden]

I've just purchased a MY10.5 VE SSV ute, they are awesome, smooth and fast!!! you'll love it!!!!:goodjob:

Cant wait Corsa! :bow:

[Drewie]

I would go the Monaro more rarer and when you see a nice one they have a lot of presence, the VE SS's are too common heaps of them around and in a few years will be nothing special. The Monaro has the potential to be a future classic.

[Pepps]

That is one thing that attracts me to a VE is the 'refinement' over the VT-VZ series of which I've owned 3 cars from.

I understand that in a couple of years they will be outdone by the newer models but it's still attracting me currently to buying one im just torn between which to go for.

I'm sure the VEs are alot smoother to drive, have the L98 but are bigger and heavier.

Whereas the monaro is rare, bit mure bumpier to drive when lowered but has the old 5.7,

(wish they brought out 6.0Ls in the VZ monaros, as they did in the GTOs)

[El Narros]

Silly question. Monaro. If you want refinement and a nice smooth ride buy a Camry.

[Dreamer]

I know this is a 'what would YOU do' thread but i think you should take a Monaro and a Ve for and drive in the same condition and see what you prefer, i personally have a soft spot for Monaro and was looking for a clean one when i bought my Ve (price i couldnt resist) and i dont regret buying the Ve but i think i could be just as happy in a Monaro

Also think about the future abit if your getting a long term loan (5+years) is a 2 door coupe going to be suitible for the life of the loan/time you plan to keep the car

Both cars have there pro's and con's and although make different power on dyno's they run similar times (although i feel my A6 ve has more streetable power than my M6 Vy and the Vy has more mods)

[cashie]

It depends on what you want from a car....
These are two totally different cars.
Having owned a couple of monaros and a few VEs, I can say they both have their merits..

[701let]

Drive both and you will know what you want but fwiw get a Ve.... Monaros really showing their age IMO...

[Pickles]

Geez, these cars are like chalk & cheese.....not many similarities at all.
I've owned a S111 Monaro, & we currently own a VZ GTO......so you might think I'll say get the Monaro.....but I'm not going to.
The Monaro's only got 2 doors, it's not as practical as a VE, which is newer, & so should drive better.
You sound as if you're not a real Monaro or Coupe "enthusiast" etc, but someone who's simply looking to upgrade to something better to drive.....so therefore I think a good clean original VE SSV is the car for you.
Cheers, Pickles.

[planetdavo]

I've just purchased a MY10.5 VE SSV ute, they are awesome, smooth and fast!!! you'll love it!!!!:goodjob:

MY10.5 is the rarest Commodore of all!
Reason? They jumped from MY10 series 1 straight to MY11 series 2.

To the op, I pretty much agree with Pickles.

[Pepps]

I've always loved monaros so I would say Im a monaro enthusiast for sure but not an overall coupe enthusiast if that makes sense? I'm not into GTOs, I hate the bodykit, overdone IMO.

And I love the shape of the VE, interior is great, especially in the SSVs, but it might be more suitable to take the dog for a drive as he would not be getting in the monaro (just have to use the missus car everytime ;) )

[planetdavo]

There's been several similar threads in the past to this question Pepps, and the answers really are the same.
Do you need a 4 door and/or a big boot for practicality reasons?
Do you want/need to be driving the latest thing?
Monaro's aren't that practical if you regularly need a back seat or (for VZ Monaro with the tiny boot) wont fit much in the bum. They also don't have the back seat port hole for longer items. However, in many peoples eyes, a 2 door car will ALWAYS kill a 4 door sedan for "style". It's purely up to you and your "needs" my friend.

[ova400]

If you brought the monaro, would you have to sell it once you have kids, how long would you want to keep it??

IF you intend to keep it for a while, (and the missus allows it) I would get the monaro, otherwise you might be better off with the VE as it will just be another car

[Pepps]

Do you need a 4 door and/or a big boot for practicality reasons?

No I dont really..


Do you want/need to be driving the latest thing?

I do but I'm happy with the build of the monaros (VY and VZ models)

The monaro is actually cheaper to insure than a VE..which is suprising imo.

I can adapt to either, thats why I put the question up to you guys to see everyones opinions, otherwise I would have made the decision myself if it was all dependant on my needs of a 4 door or 2 door, or for practical reasons..etc

[dyno junkie]

Drive both and you will know what you want but fwiw get a Ve.... Monaros really showing their age IMO...





Which is half of their appeal, our Monaro has just celebrated its 9th birthday:bday:

[acecv8]

i had an 03 cv8 monaro - and purchased a 06 VE GTS that i still have.
After owning both for 3 years now i find the monaro to be a lot more solid and the build quality is better in the monaro IMO.

But it's personal choice so get what you really like, if i had the choice again i'd be going for another monaro in a heartbeat

[vxberlina123]

VZ Monaro for sure!!! yeh a ve is a little smoother to drive but end of the day its still just a run of the mill ss, way more street cred having a coupe. And as well as that it will defiantly hold its value better just have to hunt down a good low kms example that hasn't been thrashed.
Monaro=
+ street cred
+ rare (no longer made)
+ holding value well
+ looks 100% better
+ lighter
- no warranty
- a little less smooth to drive
- wasn't blessed with the 6.0ltr or 6.2ltr

if its a family car to drive every day and you don't plan to keep it for longer than 5yrs go the VE but if you plan to keep it for years to come go the Monaro IMO

[gm4life]

Pretty much everything has been said allready. I own both of your cars here in the states the VZ and VE. I love them both and if I would buy another one it would be a VE. I can't fully explain it I just find myself enjoy driving the wifes VE from time to time even though my GTO has alot more power. I will never part with my GTO.

[planetdavo]

Drive both and you will know what you want but fwiw get a Ve.... Monaros really showing their age IMO...

Guess no one would ever want to buy a 60's or 70's Monaro either then...:jester:
At the end of the day VE will be worth scrap metal money, whereas a Monaro will always be worth something.
Both cars have their place in the world.

[Tony66]

Get the best VZ CV8 chassis you can then put a LS3 or LSX454 with a supercharger in it.

Best of both worlds.:)

[701let]

Guess no one would ever want to buy a 60's or 70's Monaro either then...:jester:
At the end of the day VE will be worth scrap metal money, whereas a Monaro will always be worth something.
Both cars have their place in the world.

Just my opinion mate.. I wanted a munro for years but when the Ve came out I completely lost interest in them...

I suppose if you want to buy a car and keep it for 30 years so it's worth something then you would get a monaro :jester:

[hotbox]

meh, VE good car but ur uncle,arnt,cousin,grandma,sister has one....

i always wanted one and once i could afford one i bought one, choose carefully and get exactly what u want and u probly will never part with it :)

[keith reed]

I own three cars or two and a ute. I would love to own a Monaro and hopefully one day will. A vb, a vt, and a ve. The vt would have to go. The vb and the ve for different reasons would stay. I just love the ve for it's all round ability and the vb because it is a vb. I have generally owned cars for a long time and would not buy a Monaro just to sell it after a short time.

[Keepup]

Depends on taste and you will obviously get a different opinion in every post. Just be happy with what you decide.

[O.N.]

If you are ever looking to sell this car and hold some of the value still a GTO will hold value as it is a limited build and there isn't all that many and hey you never know it might one day be the next GTHO PH3 and be worth alot more as a collectors item.

As for me i drive my GTO but i dont car about the value too much i just love the car and i'll never sell it even if it becomes rare and worth 250k.
Mine is now an LSX454 GTO look it up on here or on youtube.

[tyrhantc]

[QUOTE=701let;1836824]Just my opinion mate.. I wanted a munro for years but when the Ve came out I completely lost interest in them.../QUOTE]

+1 I always wanted a Monaro but then ended up with the VE and havent looked back. I have found the interior (except for seats), ride and handling in the VE a step above the VT-VZ platform. I would probably still love a GTO if the bank could afford it tho.

[planetdavo]

+1 I always wanted a Monaro but then ended up with the VE and havent looked back. I have found the interior (except for seats).... in the VE a step above the VT-VZ platform.

Quite an interesting comment considering many felt VE went well backwards in interior appearance and perceived plastics quality, especially compared to a colour keyed Monaro interior.
I'd be highly surprised if there is genuinely much cross shopping between the two though. People tend to buy Monaro because it is a Monaro, whereas people tend to buy VE's because they are the latest model and/or are more practical for their needs.

[Groboz]

If I had only one car then I'd get the VE (out of the two choices). However as I, like you, have a wife with a sensible car then get the Monaro, add the performance tweaks you want and just enjoy driving it. I plan on keeping mine for a very long time. With 60,000k on the clock and averaging just 5000k a year it will do me for the next decade or so.:)

[-GTS-]

Which is half of their appeal, our Monaro has just celebrated its 9th birthday:bday:

It's a young 9 year old :p

[A PSYCHO]

VZ Monaro no doubt mate. VE's are common as hell now and boring.

[team illucid]

VZ Monaro no doubt mate. VE's are common as hell now and boring.

+1

Sadly, the Toyota Aurion is more interesting than the VE. The Monaro will always turn heads when done right.

[Kuzman89]

an aurion more interesting than a VE? what a total grandma statement, coming from someone with a VT :spew:

[A PSYCHO]

an aurion more interesting than a VE? what a total grandma statement, coming from someone with a VT :spew:

If i seen say for example a TRD Aurion with a nice set of wheels(or hell even dead stock) and a VE SS next to each other. Im going to look at the Aurion because ill see 7 of the VE's on my way home. Sure the VE might have more poke ect, but theres just no getting around the fact the VE is really getting, well..., boring.

[Kuzman89]

if u dont want a common car in australia, i dont know why you'd bother with a commodore or Holden at all for that matter. You'd buy a boring skoda

[dawkinsdisciple]

Quite an interesting comment considering many felt VE went well backwards in interior appearance and perceived plastics quality, especially compared to a colour keyed Monaro interior.
I'd be highly surprised if there is genuinely much cross shopping between the two though. People tend to buy Monaro because it is a Monaro, whereas people tend to buy VE's because they are the latest model and/or are more practical for their needs.

i must be one of the few people about that genuinely prefers my SSV interior over the equivalent VY/Z. apart from some slightly harder bits here and there, i think the layout and ergonomics are great. taste and aesthetics being so central means any degree of objectivity, we should have realised here, is unobtainable. incidentally i was in the exact position the OP is a bit over a year ago & i doubt its an uncommon position for a lot of fans to find themselves in.


VZ Monaro no doubt mate. VE's are common as hell now and boring.

you could say the same for any 4 door versus monaro. VE's common as hell? i can't count on the hairs on my head the amount of patchy, kitted VT/X's i see around here.


+1

Sadly, the Toyota Aurion is more interesting than the VE. The Monaro will always turn heads when done right.

aurion? a v6 camry is more interesting? then, say, a VE SSV or GTS? i think you're on the wrong forum guy. aurion? ergh. sort of defines fridgy utilitarian dishwater plain boredom to me, unless your stupid enough to think those 17's make it a sports car... and i have driven one, the presara i think it was.
if making a statement means buying that to look a little different, i'm glad theres a plethora of idiots out there to make that decision for me. if you don't like the look of the VE, cool, why should anyone care, putting the aurion there on a performance pedestal? i don't kow what else to say here.

i know i'd take my SSV in the blink of any eye over a VX or VT. others wouldn't on technical reasons but to do it because the VE's common is missing a great car just because other people have it. rather odd. glad i didn't let that logic interfere with my decision making... opinions on day to day or engineering, sure, aesthetics?

for the OP i had exactly this decision to make a bit over a year ago and to be honest, not having owned the monaro, its hard to make the claim that i wouldn't have enjoyed it equally. that said, having had a bit of experience with VT-Z's, i found the VE to be superior in a lot of day to day civility issues (except visibility and bulk for some) and the engineering/chasis to be far superior (except std brakes...) but wasn't quite the qualitative step forward i'd hoped it be as i have had some minor issues with mine and i've found in my experience that quality seems to be the commodores bugbear.

a bad VE will ruin the experience just as quickly as a bad monaro would. that bit of roulette right there is probably going to be one of the most important factors. i can pretty faithfully say i'd have enjoyed the monaro too.

[Swordie]

Hard choice, as mentioned test drive both. I don’t think a car is worth going into much debt for unless there’s a tax advantage.

[corsa]

if u dont want a common car in australia, i dont know why you'd bother with a commodore or Holden at all for that matter. You'd buy a boring skoda

LOL.......:rofl: Well said!!!! Rare does not mean "Good"!!!
Lets not forget, the Uber rare, Lada, Trabant, Fiat Panda (God they were bad), almost all Alfa's, a bucketfull of British 70's crap... etc...

I'll stick with my "Boring" SSV A6 ute!!!!:)

[Steve-LS2]

A friend of mine bought one of the last VZ GTO's, very nice car

Back seat was cramped, boot was very small, visibility wasn't the best, did have good driving position and all the HSV goodies made it nice, he had a CV8 before that and it was rather tame.

The front seats took forever to move and if I drove one of those everyday and had to use the seats more than once a week I would go mental.

I drive a VE SSV and it has everything, I would go the VE

[Pepps]

Well said dawkinsdiciple, interesting read.

I'm leaning towards a monaro but the decision will come when it does..it's going to be an on the spot decision I think.

Love both ...

[dawkinsdisciple]

as i said mate, if you see a good example of either its going to be hard to say no. i had my eye on a modified one that was just a bit more then i was willing to pay. but a good monaro or SSV will provide a great daily. for me, for my needs and wants in a car, it came down to the SSV and i've been happy with it. oddly, when i see other nice VE's on the road i tend to feel vindicated; clearly its a good car and people like it. perspectives a weird thing...

as much as they are quite different beasts, the philosophy's similar enough that you'd probably enjoy either. how do you like driving the VX? happy with it? then you should be pretty happy with a V2. want something newer/a bit different? consider the VE a bit more seriously. a BIG issue your'e bypassing is the gearbox one. if it was going to be an auto, the SSV becomes much more of a contender. as much as the 6l80e isn't the be all, its a bucketload better then any 4l60e i've ever had to put up with. being a manual you're after will limit you're choices (i canned the manual idea soon after i started looking) to the degree that it should make the choice a lot easier.

either way i doubt you'll be dissatisfied!

[team illucid]

putting the aurion there on a performance pedestal? i don't kow what else to say here.

maybe you should read more and say less then - no where did I put it the Aurion on a performance pedestal, merely highlighting that I find the VE one of the least inspired cars ever produced by Holden, and that the Aurion looks better.

Obviously as the owner of a VE, you disagree, and the dollars you have invested in it cause you to react with such hostility, a common reaction usually found on internet forums.

I vote with my wallet, and wont purchase a VE, but would purchase a Monaro, which is the essence of the OP's point.

[Kuzman89]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h166/Metal_Injection/93BAURFP.jpg

We can all safely agree that you're wrong. :spew: :spew: :spew: :spew:

The aurion is one of the least inspiring 4 door "sports" cars I've ever laid eyes on. Hideous :confused:

[Pickles]

A friend of mine bought one of the last VZ GTO's, very nice car

Back seat was cramped, boot was very small, visibility wasn't the best, did have good driving position and all the HSV goodies made it nice, he had a CV8 before that and it was rather tame.

The front seats took forever to move and if I drove one of those everyday and had to use the seats more than once a week I would go mental.

I drive a VE SSV and it has everything, I would go the VE
Ha ha ha......I've had a VZ GTO from new.....and I agree with you!!!
Ours is our "toy", so we can put up with the "characteristics" you mention, but for an everyday driver, well yeah.....it wouldn't be for us.
Cheers, Pickles.

[Pepps]

Well I'm even considering a series 2 VE SSV, they're having some pretty good deals at the moment. I just gotta do my research on them first.
I just love holdens, at the end of the day I know I'd be happy with either..

[LSONE]

Chicks dig coupes

[Cmycv8]

I drove both but every Monaro I drove had it's own personality.....

Every time I see this pic I know I made the right choice.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x183/richiejarvis/LS1%20Cruise/32.jpg

[Mad4Monaros]

I drove both but every Monaro I drove had it's own personality.....

Every time I see this pic I know I made the right choice.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x183/richiejarvis/LS1%20Cruise/32.jpg


Nice pic...That looks great.

[dawkinsdisciple]

maybe you should read more and say less then - no where did I put it the Aurion on a performance pedestal, merely highlighting that I find the VE one of the least inspired cars ever produced by Holden, and that the Aurion looks better.

Obviously as the owner of a VE, you disagree, and the dollars you have invested in it cause you to react with such hostility, a common reaction usually found on internet forums.

I vote with my wallet, and wont purchase a VE, but would purchase a Monaro, which is the essence of the OP's point.

the performance line was more with respect to the guy who mentioned the TRD aurion/body kitting+17's aurion owners who do think their car is a sportscar and when i referenced you, it was regarding the car being "interesting" however you want to interpret that... "inspired" is another subjective, which you've since added to the list that should not a whit of difference to the discussion make because the OP themself will know whether it looks "inspired" or is an "interesting" vehicle. and if you really want to push your definition there, the engineering behind the VE is far and away more interesting then any other commodore at least and referencing that subjective against an aurion in your context is just odd. at any rate, the OP seems to have appreciated my input so what you think doesn't really rate on the care factor more then the 4 minutes required to punch this out...

and i'm not seeking to vindicate my purchase - i don't need feedback from other people to know what i'm happy with - and i won't say "if you bothered to read it" - how do you know how much i read? i'll stop myself saying any more there. often we do and take away something different to what the intended message was. as you have. hostility is one way of recieving it depending on your prejudices as well, i can be abrupt and inflammatory and if something sh*ts me, ill have a go. from where i'm sitting, i'd be inclined to think its enthusiastic discourse to dispell vague subjectives from other peopele as a controlling input in a purchase decision. and from your previous posts, i'm not sure we'd see eye to eye on much anyway, so, meh.

back OT, monaros really do photograph well, that looks awesome. i remember seeing another in red, VX GTS 19's photographed in Vic somewhere and it was just awesome to look at...

[jsme]

Go with whichever gives you the tingle in your pants. For me it's the Monaro, but each to their own. You wont make a wrong decision.

[Pepps]

Love the SSV SE G8 Pontiac edition too..

Just started my new job which has a longer than usual probation period and was denied finance from a company I previously dealt with so now I dont know what to do finance wise, is it easier to buy from a dealer do you think? Hassle-free type thing..

[planetdavo]

Love the SSV SE G8 Pontiac edition too..

Just started my new job which has a longer than usual probation period and was denied finance from a company I previously dealt with so now I dont know what to do finance wise, is it easier to buy from a dealer do you think? Hassle-free type thing..

Just check out the rates, fees and conditions. Dealer finance these days can be very competitive. There's also your auto club finance, which can be quite reasonable too.
Or.......what a few months until you know you've kept this job, and then you'll probably get bank finance.

[Pepps]

Well I'm in a job where i can't lose it unless I **** up in a big way, so it's pretty much gauranteed it's just annoying.

What do you mean by auto club finance? Not RACV?

[ssv 427]

go the monaro mate they are a car that i dont think are gonna out date any time to soon, they are just an amazing lookin car

[BLACKVE]

Monaro's seem to be overpriced to me but if you can find a good example at good $$$$ go for it


The monaro is actually cheaper to insure than a VE..which is suprising imo.

That sounds odd my 04 VY II Sv8 costs more than my heavily modded08 VE ss ute

[SV91]

I own both a GTO and VE SS, definately rate the SS for its handling and driving comforts.

However the GTO always puts a smile on the face every time I drive it, and turns alot more heads.

Even though the monaros are getting a bit dated they would be my pick over a VE any day.

[planetdavo]

Monaro's seem to be overpriced to me but if you can find a good example at good $$$$ go for it.

It's not really that they are "overpriced". It is because they aren't depreciating like Commodore's do.
Translation is that Monaro will be a long term player, just like the earlier Monaro's were. A future classic already starting to make it's mark.
I know mine still attracts pleeeeeeeeeenty of attention on the occasions it gets to see sunlight, and if people continue thinking of them as something a bit desirable, they will continue holding their value...:yup:
VE's are certainly a nice car (I get to drive a few versions through work), but I've never been tempted to add a weekender VE to the garage. It's just a "practical" car in my mind, one that could easily be replaced when the next new one comes out.

[BLACKVE]

It's not really that they are "overpriced". It is because they aren't depreciating like Commodore's do.
Translation is that Monaro will be a long term player, just like the earlier Monaro's were. A future classic already starting to make it's mark.
I know mine still attracts pleeeeeeeeeenty of attention on the occasions it gets to see sunlight, and if people continue thinking of them as something a bit desirable, they will continue holding their value...:yup:
VE's are certainly a nice car (I get to drive a few versions through work), but I've never been tempted to add a weekender VE to the garage. It's just a "practical" car in my mind, one that could easily be replaced when the next new one comes out.

Just had a look on carsales and the VX style dash ones seem cheaper but they are a 8yr old car now, as you say a VE is a good drive but sometimes i like my VY better(clunky suspension rattles etc but has personallity) Its a aug 04 last of vys with less than 60000km's but has power window that dosent work small leaks etc etc

I'm not a monaro fan at all but a nice low km Vy dash one in good nick for a good price would be a cool weekender but a 07/08 Ve SS is a good buy nowdays aswell(droppped the $$$ already).

Buy a VE SS and a Monaro as a weekender problem solved:jester:

[trialweis]

VZ Monaro only because I own one and know how good they are :)

[VYSHSV8]

I wish I had a CV8-Z in my collection or a GTS Monaro but I have to get a VTIi and a VZ before I am allowed to start on the monaros and the Senator):)

I still love the VY shaped commodores and are a pleasure to drive:):)
Paul I agree with you about the rattles and squeaks of them considering I just did 10000k's in mine in the last 2 weeks :):) I think I drives easier than the VE I have but it's abdifferent drive due to the mods compared to standard and on the trip back I averaged around the 8.2-8.5ltr to the 100 at an average speed a bit above the limit not bad considering it has 4:11's in it :):)

[planetdavo]

Just had a look on carsales and the VX style dash ones seem cheaper but they are a 8yr old car now...

Yeah it's interesting how many don't particularly want the series 1's (for now anyway). The newer dash, later wheels and so forth are definitely more popular.
Gives people with a bit less cash an opportunity to enter the market though, and in time, quality series 1's will no doubt become more popular again, especially as many Monaro's become a bit ragged around the edges (or written off).

[HSV590]

An interesting thread, I'm also struggling with a similar dilema. I'm currently on the look out for a VE SS but everytime I stroll into a yard that has a Monaro I'm drawn straight to it. I haven't changed my profile since I sold it 6 or so months ago, but I used to have a CV8 series III. The thing is that this time around the missus wants to go for a later model ride, as do I, but I keep getting drawn back to the Monaro. As others have said too, I'm not a big fan of the series 1's but I'd probably consider one if it was a good one, low k's etc..I'm still kinda leaning towards a VE but if a good Monaro at the right price popped up!!...hmmm

[Pepps]

Its hard mate.

I'm even looking at new series II VEs now.

I don't know what to do.

[planetdavo]

Its hard mate.

I'm even looking at new series II VEs now.

I don't know what to do.

How long do you intend to keep this car?
Ultimately, only you can decide which way to go. They are two rather different vehicles. A 2 door is almost always a more stylish vehicle but with compromises for everyday use, whereas a 4 door is far more practical but nowhere near as stylish.
Yes some will say VE is more stylish, but that really is just down to it being newer in peoples minds. Once a newer one comes out VE will also start looking like an old model, for the "latest toy" thinkers out there.

[VYSHSV8]

There is already a new engine combo running around:):)

[Pepps]

$38k for SS D/A
$43800 SSV D/A

Series 2, sedan, manual.

Then there's the IQ system which is holding me back.

[planetdavo]

Then there's the IQ system which is holding me back.

I read your post in the series 2 thread Pepps.
Don't worry about iQ. If you worried about what a couple of people say on the internet about a car you will never buy ANY car my friend.
All cars have "potential" issues of some form, but there are many variables at play, not just iQ itself in VE's case. There's all these different Apple software variants, corrupted discs trying to be ripped etc...
Holden have a comprehensive techline on Apple. In some models case, it's the method chosen by the owner to hook it up that's the big issue.

[Pepps]

I'm slowly narrowing it down..

SSV G8 edition vs a VEII SSV

The G8 has only 8000kms but is a 2009 MY10 model.


Both around the same price.

I love the look of the G8s and wonder if they will hold any value over a normal depreciating commodore.

[Pepps]

I read your post in the series 2 thread Pepps.
Don't worry about iQ. If you worried about what a couple of people say on the internet about a car you will never buy ANY car my friend.
All cars have "potential" issues of some form, but there are many variables at play, not just iQ itself in VE's case. There's all these different Apple software variants, corrupted discs trying to be ripped etc...
Holden have a comprehensive techline on Apple. In some models case, it's the method chosen by the owner to hook it up that's the big issue.

Do you work for Holden mate?

I have an iPhone and that's what I'd plan to use with the IQ system.

Is there a known cure of the problem of compatability yet or there are still issues?

Then there is the L77..more expensive to cam etc and the AFM is just disabled in the manuals? Just a bit odd IMO.

I like seeing what Holden enthusiasts post in regards to feedback of current models etc as these are the people that are driving these things and experiencing it first hand, the way I would be too.

[BLACKVE]

Personally i'd keep away from the L77 if your going to mod it(but i guess you have 3 years warranty for stocky), look for a runout L98 or low km jobbie

[planetdavo]

Do you work for Holden mate?

I have an iPhone and that's what I'd plan to use with the IQ system.

Is there a known cure of the problem of compatability yet or there are still issues?

I'm in the system yes.
The problem is basically with Apple. Apple have been asked by car manufacturers (including GM USA) to come up with a fix that standardises the software in some way, or else these issues will continue to occur as long as Apple keep being flavour of the month in the marketplace.
If Apple says they don't particularly care then there will NEVER be a guaranteed fix that covers all their products. Some will work 100%, some most of the time, and some less than that.
At the end of the day, iQ will always be a far better system than series 1's have.
These problems really aren't that different to the years of bluetooth connect issues. Technology companies just keep updating their products all the time to make you buy the new toy every year or two, making life a nightmare for everyone else.

[Ls1_ReZ]

Monaro takes my vote if you are not concerned in terms of practicality

[ssv 427]

MONARO:bow::bow::bow::smilesandbanana:

[Bingo BIlly]

A monaro will only be worth something as a future classic

1. If you keep it long term
2. If you dont drive it much

If your gonna drive it and if you are gonna sell it within 10 years grab the VE, its a better car

[Pepps]

I agree with the above. When you put it like that mate it sounds simple and more practical to go with the VE .

[Pepps]

I should retitle the topic to:

VE SSV G8 vs VE II SS/SSV vs VE pre 2008.. ;)

Im a mess..

[the big fist]

I've tried to stay out of this topic because ve owners will say go the ve and be offended by the monaro owners and vice versa.

My opinion is forget a car for an investment. I was in this position a year or more ago. It was either a ve clubby or a vz gto. I was upgrading from a vx clubby. I went the gto because I prefered the look despite the ageing interior and chassis design. BUT I am happy, every day I enjoy driving my car despite the tiny boot and other "issues". Go with the heart.

The only other really deciding factor is if you have to carry family or loads.
If its just a daily, go with what you like.

[planetdavo]

My opinion is forget a car for an investment.

Definitely true, but I think the point we were trying to get across is that a Monaro is much more likely to depreciate less than a Commodore,so even if a bit old and ratty when the times comes to sell, the changeover cost of the next car is potentially reduced.
End of the day though, as many, many people have now said, it is Pepps decision.
One idea though Pepps. Since you appear to be stuck in a big hole deciding how to go about it, why not just take a step back for a few months, get your head clear, then start again??? You might have figured it all out by then...

[Pepps]

Yeah I think I might have to take a breather..
My mind isn't clear in what I really want, it is better than a couple of weeks ago however.
It's really just me driving most of the time and occasionally my mrs and couple other people. I do have a dog though and I'd never let him see the back of a monaro but I would chuck him in the VE

[mickeyVX350]

I have a Monaro - and yep, the dirty "VX Dash" model... I think it is a lot better than the VY+ model... why?
-Curved design: Matches the car's curves
-Different: The piano black stands out
-Switches: although not as tactile, I haven't broken any, unlike my VZ
-dials and markings: I find the writing and pictures on the VY+ dashes too fine to read when driving (fine after you memorise)
-Wheels: Standard to standard I think that the SII+ wheel look like flowers!
-Boot: I like having one in the SI (to sIII)

As for your argument, I dunno mate. I love my Cv8 (2002, 36K) but I did live with it everyday and it was limiting, and a waste of such a different beast.
I am looking for a new daily, and it'll probably be a VE for practicality.

[PC12]

I bought a VZ coupe 18 months ago. Just love it. I love the VE GTS as well but it was a personal choice and the coupe won. No kids so who cares about no room.
Wife hates it which is great, means she wont drive it!
I agree that they might hold a better resale than the VE.

[VYSHSV8]

Yeah I think I might have to take a breather..
My mind isn't clear in what I really want, it is better than a couple of weeks ago however.
It's really just me driving most of the time and occasionally my mrs and couple other people. I do have a dog though and I'd never let him see the back of a monaro but I would chuck him in the VE

What ever you buy it's your choice and you will enjoy it:):)
Just make sure you buy it for what you want:):) and not what anyone tells you
We can only give you opinions on what we like:):)and that's that.
Buy and ENJOY your new pride and joy:):)


Cheers
Drew

[Groboz]

Yep, you will be happy with whatever you choose..... just that you'll be more happy in a Monaro :jester:

Seriously, the first thing you need to do is identify what is the most important attribute/s the car must possess. Why a Holden at all? You've already identified a price range so I guess a near new C63 AMG is out of the question. So price is a major determinant. Power is obviously another, I guess a V6 Monaro won't be on the cards then. So what's next? Does killer good looks and relative exclusivity (Monaro) matter more or does a new car and thus theoretically less maintenance issues (VE) score higher in your books? Investment isn't important because neither of these cars would make sense.

I was going to buy either a 70's Corvette stingray or the VZ Monaro. For me the reason the Monaro won was 1) It had more power, better handling and it would cost less to fix, 2) I fitted in the Monaro better and thus would enjoy the drive more in the long run. Those factors were more important to me than say the arguably better looks and resale value of the Corvette.

I don't regret my decision one bit (although I do wish to own a nice 68 Dodge Charger one day):) I haven't had anything break in the 2 years I've had it and the mods I've done (suspension, brakes, cam, exhaust, OTR) means it handles better and has more power than most stock VEs. I live in Darwin so have nowhere to drive to, so mileage is only about 5000 kms a year. I have two other cars so practicality wasn't big on my list.

Make a list and identify what's more important to YOU !!!!

[Pepps]

Just got finance approved for my budget of $45K. Now to decide...

These are the models I'm considering in order, after a good think today,

1. 2006-2009 used VE SS/SSV
2. 2010 VE SS/SSV II
3. 2009-2010 VE SSV SE G8 edition
4. VY-VZ Monaro

Budget is $45k only due to possibility of new vehicle otherwise it could be as low as the 30 mark.

[Kuzman89]

Get a second hand SSV and spend the rest on mods :goodjob:

[Pepps]

Yeah it's hard finding a decent example in nsw in manual. But if I get a used ssv i won't take out $45k, I'm only going to borrow the amount I buy it for. When I sell my current car is when I'll spend on cam :)

[HSV590]

Yeah it's hard finding a decent example in nsw in manual. But if I get a used ssv i won't take out $45k, I'm only going to borrow the amount I buy it for. When I sell my current car is when I'll spend on cam :)

I've been toying with a similar dilema to you lately..Sold my CV8 a little while ago for house reno's which are done, now I'm looking for another car. Loved the CV8 and was going to get another one, but I'm leaning towards the VE now, infact I'm looking at a couple of SS's tomorrow and a SSV. Will see how that goes!!
Cheers

[apt ssv]

Get a second hand SSV and spend the rest on mods :goodjob:

i agree monaro is looking a bit tired now...but GTO is still nice in black imo

[planetdavo]

i agree monaro is looking a bit tired now...

Basically the standard answer for people wanting to be seen in the latest of something...

[Pepps]

http://carsales.mobi/cars/details/?R=9837660

Just don't like the guys taste in redwalls and painting the hubs red.

[701let]

Basically the standard answer for people wanting to be seen in the latest of something...

Mate no one is having a go it's just kind of true... As an example my girlfriend who knows nothing about cars commented to me the other day about how she thinks they look old... And that's an unbiased view I'd there ever was one

[ice57l]

i would get the monaro, im sure if you shopped around you would get one with some mods, ve is nice but as people have said 3 to 5 years from now theyll be just a commodore.. would be different if you had a baby on the way but the monaro looks hot and can still hold it own.

[omgbees]

I have a CV8 Series 3 that I am selling to buy a CV8Z, phantom black, black leather, full Di fillipo 2.5" system from extractors to muffler, MAFless tune and OTR CAI. Just hit 102km
got it at like 85k 2 years ago. you can have that for $30K

[dogsballs]

thats not a bad deal.

heaps of monaro's on carsales, so plenty to choose from. thing is to me, still just a commodore, but with two doors. paying a fair bit extra for the loss of 2 doors.

[apt ssv]

Basically the standard answer for people wanting to be seen in the latest of something...

How about adding the full quote next time where i said "but GTO is still nice in black imo" mind u business next time..

[PC12]

thats not a bad deal.

heaps of monaro's on carsales, so plenty to choose from. thing is to me, still just a commodore, but with two doors. paying a fair bit extra for the loss of 2 doors.

You should have a read of Monaro magic. I may be wrong but the way I read it they did more than bog the doors up!

[dogsballs]

i appreciate they are different and why people like them, thats cool. my opinion is you get in one and wonder what the fuss is, just a vx,vy,vz commodore.

[HSV590]

i appreciate they are different and why people like them, thats cool. my opinion is you get in one and wonder what the fuss is, just a vx,vy,vz commodore.

Personally for me it's not the inside thats the drawcard, it's the outside. The shape, the sleek lines, the name..Monaro!!

[planetdavo]

How about adding the full quote next time where i said "but GTO is still nice in black imo" mind u business next time..

Ahhh, so it was only a "small" backhander then, rather than a large one! :eek:
Settle down princess.

[planetdavo]

Mate no one is having a go it's just kind of true... As an example my girlfriend who knows nothing about cars commented to me the other day about how she thinks they look old... And that's an unbiased view I'd there ever was one

Sounds like a car to her is nothing more than something to get her to the hairdresser and back...:hide:
As expected though, this thread was never going to give Pepps a true answer, as it's purely personal opinion what people like.
If people want the latest toy they will prefer VE. If people want a timeless 2 door shape but not the latest toy, they will probably prefer Monaro.
One thing is interesting though. Some of the posts saying VE is more modern have been the same people saying VE has been out too long, and needs updating! Ummmmm, yep. :confused:
(I can see this thread going for another 15 pages yet :eek:)

[planetdavo]

i appreciate they are different and why people like them, thats cool. my opinion is you get in one and wonder what the fuss is, just a vx,vy,vz commodore.

Wonder if you'd give the same answer getting into an M3 coupe...:confused:
Most coupes are sedan based buddy.
I'm tipping if you actually owned a Monaro rather than a common as dogs balls sedan, you might understand why they are still rather popular...:yup:

[Pepps]

I can see this thread going for another 15 pages yet :eek:)

It seems that way!

What does everyone think of this SSV I posted?

http://carsales.mobi/cars/details/?R=9837660

I might go down and have a look today.

Minor things I don't like are the ugly redwalls and the hubs painted red but they're only small things, I'm confident I can negotiate a pretty good price outta this one.

[Munro3]

thats not a bad deal.

heaps of monaro's on carsales, so plenty to choose from. thing is to me, still just a commodore, but with two doors. paying a fair bit extra for the loss of 2 doors.


Is a HQ Monaro just a Kingswood? is a VE HSV just a commodore. Every car is based on a existing car model. "Pay a fair bit extra for a Holden coupe"?.. count me in.

[LJCHSV]

i was having breakfast in bay st this morning and a super clean Black VZ GTO LS2 cruised past.... shit the're a great lookin unit (even standard) & still kickin myself that i never brought My GTO in black..... i'd probably still have it today if i did..... spoil yourself.... go a GTO :goodjob:

[dawkinsdisciple]

the VE SSV was nice, not a huge fan of the red accents

BUT i was just flicking through carpoint, if i was looking at a munro right now...

http://www.carpoint.com.au/all-cars/private/details.aspx?Cr=0&R=9527463&keywords=&trecs=295&__Ns=pCar_RankSort_Int32|1||pCar_Price_Decimal|1|| pCar_Make_String|0||pCar_Model_String|0&__sid=12D52543D0FB&__Nne=15&__Qpb=true&seot=1&__N=834 1216 1246 1247 1252 1282 4294965678 4294965857&silo=1011

phwoar... not a fan of the colour (wheels not included for $35k and meh, not a fan of those either) and drop the scoop but thats not what i'm interested in - and its even manual!!!

[Pickles]

i was having breakfast in bay st this morning and a super clean Black VZ GTO LS2 cruised past.... shit the're a great lookin unit (even standard) & still kickin myself that i never brought My GTO in black..... i'd probably still have it today if i did..... spoil yourself.... go a GTO :goodjob:
G'Day mate, good to see you back on here.
Black GTO!!!???....Ya shoulda bought that black Coupe 4!
With regard to this thread.....Naaahhh, this guy's not a Monaro/GTO buyer (for good reasons!)....see my post no 16 of 28th Dec!!!...Looks like my "prediction" may be correct!
Cheers, Pickles.

[Pepps]

Yeah it's been on there a while. I'm
Not a fan of the scoop either mate.

Well I just test drove that SSV I posted up and it's so much nicer in person. I was worried about the red painted bits too an it's nowhere near as bad in the pics and the redwalls are almost non existent which is good. It's a very
Nice car and I managed to negotiate a good price. Will see on Monday morning if she's all good to go with the finance company after REVS check is done.

[dawkinsdisciple]

as i said mate, i'm sure either would give you oodles of enjoyment... they both have their appeal. weird the perceived/actual defensiveness from the relative owners. both are great cars, just have their different strengths and weaknesses. as long as you buy for reasons that satisfy you thats all that matters.

looking through carpoint, i can remember why the monaro started sliding down the list for me though - trying to find the right combination of later then series 1 (or nicely modified series 1) in manual in red, black or silver (the most desirable combinations...) saw supply and demand have these models floating around the top of the price range. that was about where i decided to get the SSV for less.

chuck some pics up when you've made the decision!

[Groboz]

Time to close this thread. It's no longer relative to the VE or Monaro title anymore. Pepps should just open a new one in the owners section "My new VE", and don't forget the pics.:)

[Pepps]

Yeah well we will see how we go hey!?
Here is a couple of pics of the car on carsales

Looks alot better in the flesh

http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/private/carsales/10481177.jpg
http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/private/carsales/10481185.jpg
http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/private/carsales/10481195.jpg
http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/private/carsales/10481268.jpg

[REDHOTLS3]

Congrats, looks great in black.:)

[Pepps]

Unfortunately just done a REVS check and it's listed as a repairable write-off
The guy was honest with me and said the left rear door was repaired but that's it. I think this will affect my finance company lending me the money as it will be secured to the vehicle.

[Mad Dog]

If he has before pics of the damage id consider it, if not what he thinks is minor could be your major idea of damage.
Personally i wouldnt touch a car on revs unless you picked it up at auction and fixed it yourself.

I would go a Monaro as i still look at mine sometimes and marvel how well the shape has aged.

[Pepps]

Yeah I agree mate - I'm going to try source pics of the damage.

Otherwise It just wasnt meant to be, great car, couldnt tell its been repaired, good price but there are others out there.

Is yours the grey or red CV8R?
I love the grey with beige interior, my fav next to the fusion and turismo CV8Zs :)

[REDHOTLS3]

Congrats, looks great in black.:)

Sorry, I might have jumped the gun, I would be looking somewhere else, cause i couldn't buy one with that history,but that's just me. Good luck.

[wyldnyt]

Just buy a car already, no1 can help you decide but you, get whatever car feels good for you dsnt matter what any1 else thinks thats your 1st mistake

[Pepps]

I'm just getting peoples opinions, I can buy my own car. I dont need inputs like that , wildnyt, thanks.

[HSV590]

I've been toying with a similar dilema to you lately..Sold my CV8 a little while ago for house reno's which are done, now I'm looking for another car. Loved the CV8 and was going to get another one, but I'm leaning towards the VE now, infact I'm looking at a couple of SS's tomorrow and a SSV. Will see how that goes!!
Cheers

Not to butt in on your thread, but I solved my decision today..Drove a VE SS 6sp manual and bought it. Loved the Monaro i had, and still do love em, but for me I wanted to go a bit more up to date. The VE is a great drive, smooth and handled well. Let the mods begin, oops, promised the missus I wouldn't touch this one..:)
Good luck with your choice, can't really go wrong what ever way you go!!
Cheers

[gassit320]

Pepps, was in exactly the same position recently.

Yes, the VE is definitely more refined, love the LS2 and the new auto makes me so jealous, but.............( as he runs and ducks for cover ) the VE is just a commodore, there has already been an update since I was looking and there will probably be a new model in the next year or so.
The VE SSV is a great looking, great driving car but there are heaps of them around, and sorry, you are only a body kit, wheels and drive train away from a taxi ( now REALLY running for cover )It's not like we are talking HK monaro verses VE, FFS the CV8 is only 8 years old at worst, yes the engine and gearbox in the VE are better but again we are not talking the difference between a 5.0L red motor and an LS2, or a trimatic and the new ZF ( I think ? ) auto.

I started looking at CV8s then a bastard mate of mine went and bought a HSV GTS coupe :goodjob: I did'nt want to spend that sort of coin so looked around and got a fairly honest 2002 GTO coupe for 29K, have spent 2.5K on it already but its 100% better ( only 100,000Ks ), still a bit to go and 34-35K is more the norm for a decent one. I love my coupe, it looks great IMHO, and will not be dated anytime soon, hell, who knows, it might even become collectible.

Oh, and at 300KWs ( at the flywheel ) it's not exactly embarassed at the lights :)

[Pepps]

I'm tossing up between a used SSV and a new one.

Found an 07 SSV
Manual
Leather
68k kms
Black
Tint
Full logbooks
$33000

Or get a new 2011 SSV for $47k or thereabouts..

[gassit320]

One other thing Pepps, especially if you re financing, your 47K SS will be the 33K one in less than 2 years :(

[Pepps]

Sure will, that's why I'm thinking of buying second hand.

What are everyones thoughts on the SSV G8 edition in terms of depreciation? Do you think it will hold a little better compared to the standard SSV of the same year?

[Pepps]

Do u think this would be enough to convert me to an auto?

Type this into eBay search section : 330515987109

Sorry couldn't post direct link as I'm on my iPhone.

[Pepps]

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Commodore-SS-LS3-Engine-/330515987109?pt=AU_Cars&hash=item4cf449baa5

[VZpiranha]

I'm biased but hands down Monaro, you said it yourself a VE is newer and has it's positives but at the end of the day it's just another commodore and thats the way it will be seen in years to come. More looks in a tidy monaro.

[gassit320]

Mate, it looks and sounds awesome :goodjob: I am pretty sure an auto, especially the new one, would be quicker than what the average bloke could drive a manual.
Will be very interesting to see what it goes for, I am tipping it will be nowhere near 25K ;)

[REDHOTLS3]

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Commodore-SS-LS3-Engine-/330515987109?pt=AU_Cars&hash=item4cf449baa5

It,s price is going up with no bids yet. Finishes soon.

[gassit320]

There is no way in hell he will let that go under 35K, IMHO

[Mattstavx]

VE SS for sure. Monaro is way overpriced and getting older. Remember at the end of the day its just a 2 door commodore.

[gassit320]

Ha ha, and the SS is just a taxi with mags ( I have been in a V8 taxi BTW ) :rofl:

[PC12]

VE SS for sure. Monaro is way overpriced and getting older. Remember at the end of the day its just a 2 door commodore.

Not back to the "its just a two door commodore".

Will have to let the wife know her two door BM is just a four door 318 BM except for the 6 speed SMG, padel shift, suspension, motor , interior, wheels, Brakes, TV, DVD, Sat Nav, Sun Roof. All that bloody extra money for two doors less that are just bogged up.

Apparently if you take off the rear interior panels in a Monaro you can see the out line of the rear door.

[mickeyVX350]

VE SS for sure. Monaro is way overpriced and getting older. Remember at the end of the day its just a 2 door commodore.

Is it just me or is it getting easier to spot wankers?

[Pepps]

There is no way in hell he will let that go under 35K, IMHO

He said he'd take $28k.

I found another one, more what I'm after. Checking it out tomorrow.

http://carsales.mobi/cars/details/?R=9478385

He's neg. Not sure if that dyno printout is right for just cam intake and tune? Seems a bit high.

[Mattstavx]

Is it just me or is it getting easier to spot wankers?

A 2003 lets say, monaro is going for the same price as a 2005 VZ HSV. Why would you pay that much for a Monaro????? Its doesnt have any extras in it that a HSV doesnt have, the HSV has way more. I just gave my opinion.

PC12 your wifes car has extras so its not the same, a monaro hasnt got that many extras no more than a newer SSV so why the Monaro??

LOL and the wanker comment is gold I agree with you 100% Mickey it is much much easier to spot lets say people with a small brain

[PC12]

The Monaro has one thing the Commodore will never have. The Australian Iconic name Monaro.

But at the end of the day its up to the individual. I love the VE GTS , Club Sport. Awesome car that I would be happy to have in the Garage. But for now the GTO will do.

[Bazz]

Monaro, always, easy choice.h

[mickeyVX350]

A 2003 lets say, monaro is going for the same price as a 2005 VZ HSV. Why would you pay that much for a Monaro????? Its doesnt have any extras in it that a HSV doesnt have, the HSV has way more. I just gave my opinion.

PC12 your wifes car has extras so its not the same, a monaro hasnt got that many extras no more than a newer SSV so why the Monaro??

LOL and the wanker comment is gold I agree with you 100% Mickey it is much much easier to spot lets say people with a small brain

Don't be too hard on yourself mate, not everyone actually realises that a CV8 is pretty heavily fitted out car, all but the top HSVs have calais spec features. Monaros have a lot of differences to a commodore in steering ratios, chassis and only shares 3 external panels with a commodore. When you drive one, you know.
a HSV has its features, but the HSV nameplates get reinvested every model, and the Monaro is limited production.

A Monaro is by no means a HSV sticker special and heralds Australian design and the efforts holden workers went to so the Monaro could be produced.

I hope that I helped your brain grow a little bit more.

[Mattstavx]

Monaros are a nice car just over priced.
But if people are willing to spend the extra money to get the look then thats fine unfortunately they have no choice.

[gassit320]

356rwkw sounds excessive for a cam, intake and exhaust, what I do not get is why you would spend 40k on a car with a few mods, when you could get a car which has had a fortune spent on it for 28k....does not compute.

As for the Monaro only having the " look " , isn't that one of the main reasons you buy a car? Performance wise you could arguably buy a Monaro for 25k, spend 10k on it and have performance to hose any ( stockish ) SS, and have the look as well for similar coin to the SS.

At the end of the day it's personal preference I guess, hell, I've even heard tales of people spending 40k plus on a Ford !!!

[csv rulz]

Don't be too hard on yourself mate, not everyone actually realises that a CV8 is pretty heavily fitted out car, all but the top HSVs have calais spec features. Monaros have a lot of differences to a commodore in steering ratios, chassis and only shares 3 external panels with a commodore. When you drive one, you know.
a HSV has its features, but the HSV nameplates get reinvested every model, and the Monaro is limited production.

A Monaro is by no means a HSV sticker special and heralds Australian design and the efforts holden workers went to so the Monaro could be produced.

I hope that I helped your brain grow a little bit more.

On fire mick!! Iv driven micks monaro back to back with my vy ss and by no means is the monaro a 2 door commodore. it makes the commodore feel sloppy by comparison, while i prefer the steering and gear shift of my vy, the feel of the chassis in the monaro is a lot better.

[EfiJy]

Do you want the better car or better drive?

Better car is the Monaro. When will we get another Monaro?
Better drive is easily the VE.

Good luck with it.

[OzJavelin]

If it's a "keeper" go the Monaro. If it's a driver which will eventually be sold buy a VE.

Any bogan can tack enough reproduction stuff on a base-model Commodore to make it "look" like an SS/HSV (at a glance), but no amount of fibreglass will make a 4-door Commodore look like a two-door ..

[Pickles]

If it's a "keeper" go the Monaro. If it's a driver which will eventually be sold buy a VE.

Any bogan can tack enough reproduction stuff on a base-model Commodore to make it "look" like an SS/HSV (at a glance), but no amount of fibreglass will make a 4-door Commodore look like a two-door ..

You've summed it up very well.
Cheers, Pickles.

[Pepps]

356rwkw sounds excessive for a cam, intake and exhaust, what I do not get is why you would spend 40k on a car with a few mods, when you could get a car which has had a fortune spent on it for 28k....does not compute.

Well it's auto, cloth not in particulary good nick, been flogged at the drags, 2006 model SS.. Yes it's worked but hmm if it was Manual I'd prob buy it , I don't really want the hassle.

2008 SSV is what I want
Manual
Low kms
Blue black leather
Blue dash
Cammed

Pretty much all I'm after,.

[Pepps]

I like this monaro but the Ks are a bit high...and it's in the NT

http://carsales.mobi/cars/details/?R=9806877&Cr=1&trecs=113

[planetdavo]

Unfortunately just done a REVS check and it's listed as a repairable write-off
The guy was honest with me and said the left rear door was repaired but that's it. I think this will affect my finance company lending me the money as it will be secured to the vehicle.

Just jumped back on this thread.
Mate, trust me, they don't list 30K plus VE's with only rear door shell damage as "repairable writeoff's"! :eek:
I'm tipping it had some pretty reasonable side frame damage, which is probably why he is now selling it... :yup:
Good luck with your VE search. Remember what I said earlier. If you keep dragging on with making a choice, walk away for a bit and have a breather.
Might be the best, stress reducing, decision you can make right now. :)

[EfiJy]

I like this monaro but the Ks are a bit high...and it's in the NT

http://carsales.mobi/cars/details/?R=9806877&Cr=1&trecs=113

110K high?

I got my VE with almost 80K. It's only just run in. :)

I agree wtih PD. Stay away from repairable write offs. Not worth the hassle.

[Pepps]

I'm focused on a VE now thanks mate.
Just to decide between an auto worked LS3 SS or a nice clean cammed example SSV for $12k more.

Should just convert the worked one to manual hey.. :)

[Pepps]

It's pretty tempting I must admit with all those goodies on it. Rough cost to convert to manual 5k? They're the only real 2 vehicles in my sights at the moment.

[gassit320]

Funny Pepps, I looked at a Monaro in Darwin, a 2002 CV8 with VZ front and rear bumpers etc, mate of mine went to look over it for me before I wasted a trip to Darwin...complete and utter piece of crap ! Cut and shut, dodgy VIN plate, colour was not a Monaro colour, inside was a pig stye. It was still for sale on carsales.com ( who, by the way don't care if a car is stolen, rebirthed etc ) a month ago after already being for sale for a 4-5 months and the price was dropped by about 4k, it is prob worth 15K at a pinch as a runabout, bit sad for a Munro :(

[EfiJy]

Funny Pepps, I looked at a Monaro in Darwin, a 2002 CV8 with VZ front and rear bumpers etc, mate of mine went to look over it for me before I wasted a trip to Darwin...complete and utter piece of crap ! Cut and shut, dodgy VIN plate, colour was not a Monaro colour, inside was a pig stye. It was still for sale on carsales.com ( who, by the way don't care if a car is stolen, rebirthed etc ) a month ago after already being for sale for a 4-5 months and the price was dropped by about 4k, it is prob worth 15K at a pinch as a runabout, bit sad for a Munro :(

Funny you say that. Mate at work has a Monaro after looking at some dubious samples.

I still remember the story he told me of this guy with a VZ from Warnambool offering to drive to Melbourne (for the home show) so my mate could have a look at it. My mate met him in the city after waiting for about an hour. Concerned, my mate called him and was told that he was stuck in traffic.

A little while later, the car finally arrived. From the distance, the car looked great, a red VZ (apparently the guy was late because he washed it, said the mate). Upon closer inspection, it didn't take too long for my mate to lose complete interest.

- The front and rear panels didn't line up with the doors (pretty obvious the car was in an accident even though the owner denied it, then he told the mate he was not the original owner, he was the second owner).
- The interior had scratches all over the dash and leather.
- The front bar also had scratches everywhere.
- Gutted wheels on all four

The most laughable thing was the fact that this owner wanted $39K for it. According to my mate the car wasn't really worth half that amount.

When my mate declined an invitation for a test drive, the owner got abusive because he thought my mate was wasting his time - he said he should never have driven it to Melbourne if he had've known how disinterested the mate was. The owner's g/f also got abusive because my mate told them he believed the car has been in an accident. What happened to the no obligation inspection? My mate was happy to drive to Warnambool to inspect the car but the owner was more than happy to take it to Melbourne for the home show?

[Cmycv8]

I like this monaro but the Ks are a bit high...and it's in the NT

http://carsales.mobi/cars/details/?R=9806877&Cr=1&trecs=113

Thats not bad mate. People are selling V1 V2 for the that price with less km's

NT, fair hike though I must admit.

[Groboz]

If you were serious about the Monaro I would take a look at it for you.... BUT, since you're going VE I wont waste my time. Not a fan of that colour BTW. A Monaro should shout "Look at me" and not blend into traffic. A bit understated IMO.

[planetdavo]

My suggestion Pepps is that since you are borrowing plenty of money for a depreciating asset, I would stay well away from anything that looks remotely like it's had a hard life, and that includes hard driven modified versions that might initially give you a big boner.

[Pepps]

Well to be fair, the LS3 has only done 2000kms, the body 85,000.
For $27k it's a really good buy.

There is a video of it on YouTube at the drags

YouTube - First in World 11s A6 VE G8 SS Tuned by Oztrack Tuning

[PC12]

My suggestion Pepps is that since you are borrowing plenty of money for a depreciating asset, I would stay well away from anything that looks remotely like it's had a hard life, and that includes hard driven modified versions that might initially give you a big boner.

I agree. Stay away from impulse buys that you would regret later.

It took me a long time to find the GTO that I wanted. I looked at one in Sydney that was suppose to be "show room condition". It had been in a smash (denied). Overspray around the black plastic bits in the doors ETC. Cut and marked leather and three wheels rooted. They took the photo of the one good wheel. Advertised 2006 and it was a 2005.

Dont rush and buy what you really want.

[Pepps]

This is the dyno chart of the 08 SSV im looking at today.

I dont really know how to read these charts, does anyone notice anything strange?

http://liveimages.carsales.com.au/private/carsales/9771321.jpg

[255-LS1]

given its from c and v perf, id say it would be fairly reliable. why dont you ring c and v and ask them what they think of the car etc.

personally i would be looking for a nice low kay clean stock or bolt on SSV and avoid the heavily modded stuff

like this http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=144857

[Pepps]

That chart is for a clean 08 SSV with 23,000kms with cam

Not that LS3 one.

That black ssv is nice but it's in SA.

[BEARWOOD]

Well it's auto, cloth not in particulary good nick, been flogged at the drags, 2006 model SS.. Yes it's worked but hmm if it was Manual I'd prob buy it , I don't really want the hassle.

2008 SSV is what I want
Manual
Low kms
Blue black leather
Blue dash
Cammed

Pretty much all I'm after,.

I have exactly what you are looking for + some and if you offer the right money it may well be for sale.

MY09 SSV Black
Manual with Rip Shifter
12,000kms
Black Leather
224/230 Cam,Springs,Rods etc..
Full KPM 3" exhaust
Ziggy OTR
Monroe GT shocks & King Springs
15% Window Tint
11 months rego

Rarely driven as you can tell and never raced or thrashed, ye i get up it abit on the odd occasion but no burnouts or dumping the clutch etc..
OTR,Cam,Exhaust,Suspension is all under 3,500km old. Made 449hp at Sams Performance & drives close to stock. I've thought about selling before but only due to very rarely driving it but always pull out because its actually the first car i'm 100% happy with just about everything. I'm not saying it's definately for sale but with the right offer it may be.

[Pepps]

Just test drove the blue SSV
It's immaculate, inside and out.
Big 238 stick in it. I'm waiting to hear back from him in regards to my offer.

BEARWOOD, pm sent.

[gassit320]

given its from c and v perf, id say it would be fairly reliable. why dont you ring c and v and ask them what they think of the car etc.


I tried this with a car in Adelaide, tried to contact the guys that did the work just for an opinion on the car before I made the trip " Classified info " was the reply, fine, then I won't bother looking at the car, I'm sure the owner would appreciate that :soap:

[KrisR]

110K high?

I got my VE with almost 80K. It's only just run in. :)

Ditto, it's a V8 for christ sake!!!. I bought my CV8Z with over 110,000km on the clock but it was a company car where he drove from Sydney to Canberra - verified by logbooks (novated lease) & service history. Also i'm the 2nd owner. When I pulled the heads off to get them ported and dropped in a new cam, I was dumbfounded at just how clean the engine was and it's whisper quiet too, not 1 knock out of the engine hot or cold. Sonny even said to me that he couldn't believe it when he looked at the odometer just after it pulled 302rwkw on his dyno after I did all the top end work. Admittedly it needed some suspension bushes and the rear CV's had a little bit of play, but I was well aware of what the car needed when I drove it and made the bloke an offer.

Point is, low km's on paper are "appealing" but km's are just a variable in the whole equation, i.e. use a finely tuned BS-meter when asking as to how the car has clocked up that mileage and how it has been maintained (and by who is a good indicator too).

I know a mate with a Morpheus SS VE commodore 6.0L, he put an exhaust on it, took it to get an OTR and mafless tune, drove it home 40km's and the stock cam crapped itself and took out 3 lifters just as he got into his driveway, it had about 25000km's on the car when the motor went BANG-rattle-rattle... Luckily the car was still under warranty so Holden replaced all the broken stuff, but forgot to do up the balancer bolt (another story for another day!) and didn't seal the timing cover properly so it pisses oil.

Kris

[Pepps]

Well looks like i'm buying the 08 SSV.
Apparently it holds a record at CV Performance for the best result with cam only, 354rwkw in an L98. It has a big 238 stick in it.

Car is immaculate. drives and sounds great.

[Munro3]

Awesome. Buy it!!!:goodjob:

[REDVX]

Well looks like i'm buying the 08 SSV.
Apparently it holds a record at CV Performance for the best result with cam only, 354rwkw in an L98. It has a big 238 stick in it.

Car is immaculate. drives and sounds great.

Did you get it ?
For the last two years we have had a VE SS manual and also a CV6 Monaro (only auto's in these) which me and the missus both love.The VE is more practical with the 3 kids and going away plus i love the V8 feel and it is comfortable and modern.The monaro is a great looking car and since i am generally at work all the time it suits her and the kids plus she thinks she looks look cool in it (lol)
It really is personal preference no matter what people say.

[Pepps]

Yeah I'm on my way down to syd now to pick it up. I'll create a my ride topic soon.

[REDVX]

Yeah I'm on my way down to syd now to pick it up. I'll create a my ride topic soon.

Good luck Pepps

[Pepps]

Cheers.
Shes home now, very happy with it.
Very lumpy, got around 8.6L/100km on freeway, average 110km/h.
Around town ill post up readings tomorrow.

Ill get some pics and post them up.

[macca33]

Good buy mate - get that new 'My Ride' thread up and running.

As for this thread - it is now done and dusted - congrats. :closed: