Peoples thoughts on ex cop cars?

[athlon]

I have seen ex cop VZ's (SS) for high 20's, 40,000kms etc. What are popels thoughts on one of these?

Any drawbacks?

Thanks

NSW HWP cars.

[HRT 8]

Athlon, you will get differeing views. Some people here have had good runs with ex TOG cars while others have not.
A search will also reveal alot of information.

Do you know any NSW HWP? If you do, ask them if they'd buy one of their old cars.
I know the answer I'd give. Why do you think they are so cheap??

[dadem0n]

I just bought an ex-cop QLD car.

No problems so far, great car. I could never have got this much car for this price (or even this spec).

Don't regret it at all and Id recommend it to anyone.

Im also 100% sure you could get a dud car. Just have to be lucky.

[Febs]

Years ago dad had a chat to a bloke who's job had something to do with operating the NSW police fleet. His advice was:

"Never buy a general duties car, as they're treated like shit and no-one cares for them."

"HWP cars are very well looked after (serviced, maintained etc..) because they have to be reliable."

I've driven a few ex-cops and never seen anything wrong with them, apart from the odd bit of wear on the seats, the lack of TCS, and the fact that they're auto-only.

Cheers,
- Febs.

[Gareth@Willall]

Ive got an Ex NSW HWP car and I havent had an issue..... I recon i might have given it a harder time than the coppers :banana:

As long as everything looks ok it should be ok :thumbsup:

[tlr1000]

Mate brought one and it still had bag of donuts under the front seat.

[JamesL]

I bought one.. few problems but could be becuase of the kms and age :)

[OLS108]

Ive got an Ex NSW HWP car and I havent had an issue..... I recon i might have given it a harder time than the coppers :banana:

As long as everything looks ok it should be ok :thumbsup:
I agree 100%, i would own one in a second ! these LS1's can handle a fair bit of stick and they way i see it is , I am going to give it a hard time anyway.:yup:

[GETUTED]

Years ago dad had a chat to a bloke who's job had something to do with operating the NSW police fleet. His advice was:

"Never buy a general duties car, as they're treated like shit and no-one cares for them."

"HWP cars are very well looked after (serviced, maintained etc..) because they have to be reliable."

I've driven a few ex-cops and never seen anything wrong with them, apart from the odd bit of wear on the seats, the lack of TCS, and the fact that they're auto-only.

Cheers,
- Febs.

Definately agree with that. I have a few cop mates and the patrol cars get HAMMERED. The HWP guys get good cars and look after them well. No kurb hopping, roundabout jumping or cross country antics with them

[Yoda]

Definately agree with that. I have a few cop mates and the patrol cars get HAMMERED. The HWP guys get good cars and look after them well. No kurb hopping, roundabout jumping or cross country antics with them

How do you tell which is a HWP car and which is a general duties V8?
At auction I have noticed they sell both exec V8's and SS V8's. Are the HWP cars only the SS's or do they use the execs V8's as well for HWP work

If so, why dont they just buy all Exec V8's then?

Cheers

[Fezz]

In NSW they use the SS, XR6T, XR8 for HWP duties.

General duties car are always Executives or XT Falcs.

[Feenin_HSV]

Just to agree with the majority, would definitely go with a HWP and not the general duties....ive got quite a few mates and others that ive seen there cars and you see a difference between the two, i wish the mrs would drive one, but nooooooooo she wants a clubby doesnt she lol bloody women

[lollymanv8]

I had an ex-detective vn v8 exec quite a few years back. And I can tell you these detectives really trash their cars! I couldn't really check at the time of purchase but later I got Pedders to check the suspension and they pointed out; 2 cracked wheel nuts and all sorts of bent suspension items. I didn't have any problem with the engine and drivetrain though. Personally I would steer away from ex-police cars.

[Stevotski]

Another good thing about HWP cars is that they generally don't have a lot of crims in the back seat (except drink drivers i suppose)

I have been in the back of a QLD detective car (no - i'm not a crim :astavista: ) and it was feral - shit stains over the seats, rubbish and shit everywhere - I nearly had to check my immunisations were up to date after being in there

[Rod VZ Storm]

I was speaking to a city highway patrol officer once.
He liked the road holding of the Commodore but said the XR Falcons were bigger and had a more comforatble seating position. That was HIS opinion. He also said that a "country" HWP car would be much better than a "city" HWP. He admitted going over speed hump etc at high speed when the situation called for it. The country cars have a different lifestyle (generally easier driving) and do more mileage sooner and thus get traded sooner.

My old mans has got a ex cop Nissan Pathfinder from regional NSW. It was 18months old with 70K on it. The only problem was it had diluted coolant and the wheel alignment was slightly out. Its been perfect the 6 months he has owned it so far.

[HRT 8]

You really need to make sure that the car your buying has had a good life.
As mentioned above there isnt just one type of Pursuit car. Country, no speed humps, but dirt roads and constant 100 - 0 - 160 speeds.
City cars have less high speed and brake work but face more curbs and speed humps.
It is a lottery unless you can check the individual cars history.

[pemier]

I had a ex pursuit VT 5.7 brought it with 28000km on the clock and sold it with 132000 on the clock not one problem, did the normal mods exhaust cai and edit. I can't complain at all. Funny enough the week I brought it I was pulled over for speeding and the cop that got out the car reconized the car as his pursuit car and proceeded to tell me its history. It's job was to patrol the SA to WA border no wonder it did 28000kms in less than 6 months. BTW he still didn't let me off the speeding ticket but he did forget about the overtaking on double white lines. lol

[gmeup]

ive had my VY execituve ls1 for 19months now and ive done 30000km it now had 82,000 on the clock only thing ive done to it is chnge the oil and front pads. everything else is pefect.

[macca33]

Country, no speed humps, but dirt roads and constant 100 - 0 - 160 speeds.


Kph or MPH HRT 8?????? :lol: :lol: :lol:

[ratter]

When i used to work in a holden dealership, we looked after the local TOG pursuit cars.

Most of the cops looked after the cars like they were their own, but there is always an idiot that has no idea.
The cars were shared around so not the same cop drove the same car all the time.
They were serviced every 5000 klms
If they were involved in a pursuit, they were taken off the road until checked over by the dealer.
If anything was found to be a problem, it was repaired straight away, unless it was something big and the car had a few klms on it, then it may be taken away to be traded in.

Normally most pursuit cars have been given a hard time at some stage of their life, but then again so have most the cars on this site. they did get looked after quite well, but the end of the day, they get rid of them before they start to cost too much money.

[macca33]

When i used to work in a holden dealership, we looked after the local TOG pursuit cars.

Most of the cops looked after the cars like they were their own, but there is always an idiot that has no idea.
The cars were shared around so not the same cop drove the same car all the time.
They were serviced every 5000 klms
If they were involved in a pursuit, they were taken off the road until checked over by the dealer.
If anything was found to be a problem, it was repaired straight away, unless it was something big and the car had a few klms on it, then it may be taken away to be traded in.

Normally most pursuit cars have been given a hard time at some stage of their life, but then again so have most the cars on this site. they did get looked after quite well, but the end of the day, they get rid of them before they start to cost too much money.

All of the above is correct.

Now that VicPol leases their cars, the CBC determines the k's they do, prior to changeover. It was 40, now it's 60.

The reason also, is that when they auction them, they still see a good return, ie, they actually break even, or make $$$$ on the SSs.

Hard to believe, but fleet discounts to these operators are substantial.

regards,

Macca

[Febs]

General duties car are always Executives or XT Falcs.

..and Magnas, and the odd Avalon they have getting around the place (and Camry's and others too, but I don't know if they class those as general duties).

Saw a marked Magna the other day...complete with lights, front strobes, chequered stickers etc...in GOLD! Looked like Tiger Mica, but with all the polce get-up, it just looked wrong! :lol: :lol:

Then there was this little fella I saw near Darling Harbour... :lol: :lol: :lol:
http://febs.reddrop.net/images/car/smart-cop.jpg

3 wheel nuts...haha.

Cheers,
- Febs.

[pah]

It seems a real waste to buy a NEW care and strip the engine, brakes and diff to bits.

For those who want to embark on major rebuilds, an ex cop car might be an option - provided it hasn't been used to barge Kenny's over to the kerb.




PAH

[6.0]

I guess it's all a bit of luck what you end up with.

However, don't believe that the coppers get anything better than the general public, and the coppers I know say they would never buy an ex cop car because they thrash 'em.

[Azza]

Look at it from this angle. If you buy the car from new (eg an SS) your up for around 50K, options, PORC, most like likely you won't have much change out of 60K. You get a new car you know the history you've got bugger all on the clock it's the colour you chose, you lose about $10K as soon as you drive it off the lot. when you got to sell it you lucky to get between $25000 to $30000 on resale. ( not to mention all the mod's you have done to it.)
Now on the other hand you buy an ex HWY car between 6 to 12 month old any were from 40000km to 70000km on the clock you don't know the full history of the car except that it has had one owner that has more than likely given it a thashing once or twice in it's life:D (and if your lucky like me they put a tune in while in active service), you have a choice of white or white in colours 9 times out of 10 and it's between 30K to 35K to buy. You still got 2 of the 3yr/100000km and between 30000 to 60000km factory warranty, you have saved yourself anywere from 15K to 20K on the new car price, if you want any of the factory options you can still buy them from spares new, and when you sell the car in years to come you might still get $15000 to $20000 for it depending on the condition of the car, but your out lay up front was far less that what it would of been if it were new.
Each to their own I say but, IMO buying new you just wasting money unless you can claim it back through business or you do a lease plan with your employer with S/S.
Azza.

[Yas786]

(and if your lucky like me they put a tune in while in active service),
Azza.

Azza,

How did you confirm yours had a tune? I ask since I cannot see / feel any difference with mine, feels and performs like any other non tuned LS1.

Thanks

Yas

[markone2]

Now on the other hand you buy an ex HWY car between 6 to 12 month old any were from 40000km to 70000km on the clock you don't know the full history of the car except that it has had one owner that has more than likely given it a thashing once or twice in it's life:D (and if your lucky like me they put a tune in while in active service), you have a choice of white or white in colours 9 times out of 10 and it's between 30K to 35K to buy.


Where did the 30 to 35K come from:shock: ..am I missing an outstanding retail opportunity :errr: .....your 10 to 15 K off the mark dependant on Exec or SS model....IE : 05 VZ done 40....$20K to 22K public..trade less


:idea: reminds me..esteemed forum member just offered me an 05 Calais Gen111 for 30k.........any takers??????

[athlon]

My initial plan was to get a Luxury Barge ie: VYII Calais or a Fairmont Ghia.

I don't like the idea of the 3 valve (downgrade) the Ghia gets. But i like the dash. The Calias VYII i love the seating position and the feel of the car, but they are always dearer then a GHIA.

Then i cam across a XR6t with the Ghia interior ie: Luxury Pack and thought best of both worlds, perfromance potential and some luxury. But thye are hard to come by and my budget only stretches to $28K atm.

So that left me with a XR6t with premium sound or a SS.

The SS and Calias are limited ie: I would have to add a turbo or super charger to get it into the mid 12's as a daily, where as the turbo is only a few grand. The ghia is completly out of the picture unless i'm happy with a (downgarde) engine compared to a BOSS and happy with mid 13's.

So i'm stuck really.

Regardless of the Ford Holden thing, any ideas or thoughts would be great.


Thanks.

[Azza]

Azza,

How did you confirm yours had a tune? I ask since I cannot see / feel any difference with mine, feels and performs like any other non tuned LS1.

Thanks

Yas
When I went to have a custom tune by Sonny here in Sydney, when he logged in there was already one there (a bit rough mind you but non the less someone had a fiddle with the tune) someone else put it there and I am the second owner, and it had done a 13.2 @107 with just a diff swap and full exhaust system no other mods at the time (or so I thought:hmmm: )

[Azza]

Where did the 30 to 35K come from:shock: ..am I missing an outstanding retail opportunity :errr: .....your 10 to 15 K off the mark dependant on Exec or SS model....IE : 05 VZ done 40....$20K to 22K public..trade less

Hay this is just one example here in Sydney alright http://drive.optusnet.com.au/used_car_dealers/anthony_lahood_motors/p2/0/11419results.aspx
Give me a break I was making the point used VS new and the coin you can save or lose:fewl:

[markone2]

The SS and Calias are limited ie: I would have to add a turbo or super charger to get it into the mid 12's as a daily, where as the turbo is only a few grand.
Regardless of the Ford Holden thing, any ideas or thoughts would be great.


Thanks.


Pm *Seldo*..he drives a very street friendly 12 second Senator....if no reply try *Chilly* another street friendly SS that runs low 12's... complete with spare tyre and 1/2 a photographers studio crammed into the boot and rear seat.:)

[VY2 LS1]

Cop cars are great IMO. You can check out where the car came from. Country station cars are preferred.

I have painted up my VY2 to be an exact 25th Anniversary model, complete with

white painted mirror tops
white painted front bumper blackout
white painted sills
white painted rear bumper side quarters
left centre blackout to remain standard as on 25th Anniversary model
VY2"S" Wing as on 25th Anniversary model
White painted VY2 Berlina shaped side door mouldings as on 25th Anniversary model
Standard HBD Leather steering wheel.
Factory Holden VX2 Calais 10 spoke 16" mags & new Bridgestone 225-16 tyres

All up for above: - $1750 - includes wheels and tyres

These days you can get a VZ V8 exec for about $20k ex cop.

FE2 lowered VY2 V8 in 25th Anniversary form just looks great, especially in Heron white with the 10 spoke mags.
Looks better than the VZ IMO.
Looks like a cross between an VY2 SV8 & VY2 Berlina, particularly with the factory tinted windows.

Reminds me of the black VS2 HSV Senator which was also a very elegant shape & colour.

[s1me]

how much do HWP and Executives go for?

[Nic_S]

i think they are alright

[VY2 LS1]

how much do HWP and Executives go for?


About $19.5K to $20.5K for late 04 early 05 VZ Exec Cop.
People pay a real premium for the SS Cop, ie upto $7K extra over the Exec. I dont know why you would if you are going to engine mod the thing and $ dollars spent is critical. Mind you the bog standard VZ SS looks terrific.

My approach is to buy as late a model as possible.

[rednut99]

I have seen ex cop VZ's (SS) for high 20's, 40,000kms etc. What are popels thoughts on one of these?

Any drawbacks?

Thanks

NSW HWP cars.

Steer well clear of NSW ex hwy cars, they are flogged to death. If they are not being returned to the dealr on the back of a truck because their electrical system gave out because of the HUGE strain all the incar video, computers, GPS, Radios, light bars drain from the piss weeak alternator, then they are over heating and dumping their coolant. My brother is a seniro seargent in Parramatta and while I was visiting him in HQ there was yet another VZ break down out front. Check out the coolant on the road, this is a regular occurance.

The poor officer who is assigned to this car wants his old XR back! The Holden was a better high speed car but the Fords seem to take the heavy demands of the heat, elec and weight of the gear better (this certainly hasn't always been the case though).

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v308/yoot/IMAGE_00036.jpg

[Blonk1]

I have heard the same from officers in a station on the Mid Coast. After working the SS against the XR they perfer the XR.

2 off them have traded their personal Monaro's on Typhoons they were so impressed with the new Fords.

Either way they still say both cars can be problematic under heavy work loads.

[34393]

Heres the best way to think about TMU (or TOG) cars.
The Tog rarely work nights so the car is parked somewhere. First thing in the morning, the boys get in and light up the daylughts out of them. Cold starts, belting along. Its kind of killing the cars. Notice the Ford Highway Patrol cars all left the scene at the same time???
And thats not cause the holdens came on scene.
Basically, they are well serviced as part of the lease agreement, but make sure they are checked prior to buying.

[34393]

The Ford XRs were always dropping transmissions.
As described by TOG "looks good, sounds good, crap car!!"

In VIC, you would struggle to find a Ford Police car. few and far between.

[BLUE-SS]

Don't know too much about the NEW police cars but the old VN I had was nothing short of a weapon. Reliable...regularly serviced MACHINE. Beautiful car.

[Redhot_57]

[QUOTE=rednut99] The Holden was a better high speed car but the Fords seem to take the heavy demands of the heat, elec and weight of the gear better (this certainly hasn't always been the case though).

You sure about that? Dont believe everything you may hear, both have their problems. Most of this is due to the equipment fitted and wont effect a stripped out car sold at auction.

Like most fleet cars, you get good ones and bad ones. My advice, take a friendly panel beater or at least a mate who knows his way around cars if you buy from auction. Shop around carefully, there are plenty around. Try to check the history of any car you are interested in. At least most are fairly young and thus have plenty of warranty.


BTW rednut, how did the officer feel about you taking his picture to post on the net? Just curious..

[ratter]

Heres the best way to think about TMU (or TOG) cars.
The Tog rarely work nights so the car is parked somewhere. First thing in the morning, the boys get in and light up the daylughts out of them. Cold starts, belting along. Its kind of killing the cars. Notice the Ford Highway Patrol cars all left the scene at the same time???
And thats not cause the holdens came on scene.
Basically, they are well serviced as part of the lease agreement, but make sure they are checked prior to buying.


In my area the TMU operate 24/7 and all their unmarked cars are falcons at the momment.

[bermudablue]

always pull out the back seats.Thats wear all the crims stash there smoko and stuff

[warlobo]

Had a VS SS HWP car from 98 for years from 40k to 140k and never an issue. Like many have said keep driving them like the fuzz did as you should buy an Astra or similar if you want to baby it around. Manuals generally get the hardest time, auto would be my recommendation, also insurance benefits being low etc however unmodified from factory.

Long range tank generally differentiates HWP from local hacks.

[warlobo]

VS SS also came with fuzz's golf clubs in boot together with a porno mag I still have nightmares about... Readers Fat Hairy Wives!! Yep images from cover burnt into brain unfortunately..

[hsv1413]

I think its funny that people still think the coppers put power chips in them and sell them with the chip. Those days are long gone. Stock standard sedans 8s and 6s, belted.
Sure, there are some good ones, but how many small stacks have they had fixed in the 50k that they have done???

[GMH-JC]

i own a vl interceptor, which was the highway patrol car in the northern suburbs. its never been hit and only has 130k on it. its in mint condition too.

[Quen10]

If your'e ever getting chased by a cop car dont ever crash through a burning fence, run up kerbs or reverse at over 60 kmph, they are built for that.

[hsv1413]

Apparently they press a button and turn into helicopters as well.
And the drivers are all trained at the Bathurst 1000.

Obviously, the take the helicopter modi out before selling it so dont get your hopes up!!!! :jester: :eyes: :errr: :goodtime:

***For the less fortunate, i was being sarcastic***

[Quen10]

Apparently they press a button and turn into helicopters as well.
And the drivers are all trained at the Bathurst 1000.

Obviously, the take the helicopter modi out before selling it so dont get your hopes up!!!! :jester: :eyes: :errr: :goodtime:

***For the less fortunate, i was being sarcastic***

That was the LE (limited edition) model only... it had two buttons. #1 button turned it into a helicopter . #2 button was an eject button for the seat. There were specific instructions not to push button #1 followed by button #2

[HRT 8]

That was the LE (limited edition) model only... it had two buttons. #1 button turned it into a helicopter . #2 button was an eject button for the seat. There were specific instructions not to push button #1 followed by button #2
I remember those.
OHS and the bean counters made the coppers take them out or move them further apart. Apparently they made good doughnut holders and when they went for the jam ones (no hole) they caught on both buttons and viola, they wasted a good seat.

[surfmaster59]

I remember those.
OHS and the bean counters made the coppers take them out or move them further apart. Apparently they made good doughnut holders and when they went for the jam ones (no hole) they caught on both buttons and viola, they wasted a good seat.


Hey, lay off the donut thingy, its not acceptable on a public forum, (unless they are those big ones with the pink icing, droooool)

[chops]

I remember those.
OHS and the bean counters made the coppers take them out or move them further apart. Apparently they made good doughnut holders and when they went for the jam ones (no hole) they caught on both buttons and viola, they wasted a good seat.

And a perfectly good donut!!!

[Quen10]

Hey, lay off the donut thingy, its not acceptable on a public forum, (unless they are those beg ones with the pink icing, droooool)

that was added extra only available in the LE 2 (upgraded limited edition).
2 colours were available as you say.

Both big but one was with the pink icing the other was the chocolate sprinkles.
The chocolate wasnt recommended with the baby poo brown interior for fear of mistaking the seat for the holder and the obvious accident with the next person to be seated.

[hsv1413]

On the ELE models (Extra limited edition, only two ever released) the donuts doubled as airbags.
Obviously eating the donuts greatly reduced the safety feature.
Regular servicing at the local donut shop was the key.

If you get the chance to buy one, check the service books to ensure freshness.

Bridgestone "donuts" were the obvious choice here.

So now we all know why they are always at the donut shop... its about the car getting serviced....

[Quen10]

On the ELE models (Extra limited edition, only two ever released) the donuts doubled as airbags.
Obviously eating the donuts greatly reduced the safety feature.
Regular servicing at the local donut shop was the key.

If you get the chance to buy one, check the service books to ensure freshness.

Bridgestone "donuts" were the obvious choice here.

So now we all know why they are always at the donut shop... its about the car getting serviced....

lol

i heard about those 2 only models...

The donut king took one and some other donut the other.

Not real sure what happened at Bridgestones though because they dont serve any donuts any more... rumour had it someone on the factory floor wasnt taught properly and he threw all the donuts cos he said they had holes in them...

[hsv1413]

I just heard the machine got 'jammed'!!!!

Tee hee

[Quen10]

I just heard the machine got 'jammed'!!!!

Tee hee

And thats how they named and made the "BERLINA" the original jam donut.

[hsv1413]

Ich Bin Ein Springfielder.

[Jphdg]

Though not a GenIII and was actually my first V8, my VS BT1 I shall never forget.

This car was immaculate. I thought it was a good example of what an ex cop car should have been.

It was an ex HWP and had done country k's, serviced every 5K and I purchased it when it was one year old, and 55k on the clock.

Only problem I had was after mods, the pressure plate and clutch could not cope otherwise a faultless reliable car!

http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/jphdg/JohnsHoTV8.jpg

http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/jphdg/VSconsole1.jpg

http://www.haroc.1337thing.com/ls1/jphdg/VSside.jpg

I would buy a BT1 again, however always with great caution. Make sure you find out where the car is from, or you might buy lot's of problems.

[danny346]

Mate, I bought an ex NSW cop car and no real drama's yet. Points to look for are damaged rims and driveline problems as they can usually show how hard of a life the car has had. Also check the rotors too for cracks due to heavy braking.

[hsv1413]

Just get the whole bloody car checked and be done with it.
VACC or RACV or some pre purchase inspection.

[plz069]

yeh i have a vy ss ex cop car an no prob what so ever.........

[fishframe]

It's got be ironic, doesn't it?

Here we are, enthusiasts who love our vehicles, looking to purchase a potentialy trashed vehicle which we, as Tax payers, payed for in the first place :doh:

At least we know the indicators and seat belts will be 'as new'.

[STD SS]

Each car has to be judged on its individual merits there are some really good ex cop cars and there are some thrashed junkers. I have an ex cop ss and it is in immaculate condition. For the money they can be great value.

[dadem0n]

For example,
I had my diff upgraded to a 4.11 at Harts Transmissions. They said the diff was as good as new and obvious hadn't done any serious work at all :D

He said he sees a lot of trashed shitboxes come through but mine is immaculate underneath. His best guess was that it was a sargents car and only been used for driving between stations :headbang:

[Quen10]

For example,
I had my diff upgraded to a 4.11 at Harts Transmissions. They said the diff was as good as new and obvious hadn't done any serious work at all :D

He said he sees a lot of trashed shitboxes come through but mine is immaculate underneath. His best guess was that it was a sargents car and only been used for driving between stations :headbang:

unless the diff had been replaced just before you bought it :hmmm:

[dadem0n]

Definately had not been replaced :bravo:

[hsv1413]

A fair few stations have had their unmarked vehicles taken for the Commonwealth games,
They will be a good buy.

Others could be unmarked detective vehicles or even cars for the Inspectors and above. All in great nick.

Others could be Sergeants cars etc that have not done high K's but the 2 year lease has run out. You can pick up some really good cars.

[Mozz]

A wise forum sage has in the past highlighted there is also the potential to pickup a second hand ex police vehicle which has been used for driver training duties (10,000km skidpan, 10,000km emergency brake testing, 10,000 0 - 200kph around a racetrack, 10,000 km learning J turns) - drives like new ;)

My advice is if you are going down this path try and find out the history of the car at least for the piece of mind that it wasn't a driver training vehicle.

[ratter]

general duties and detective cars will all be cylinders, only the traffic cars will be 8's

[Mozz]

general duties and detective cars will all be cylinders, only the traffic cars will be 8's

Hmmm maybe most V8's will be former traffic cars.

Here in sunny qld V8's can be found in quite a few units outside of traffic, some I won't mention but two that I can are the special emergency response team and driver training (see my previous post on this subject).

[Mozz]

deleted double post

[hsv1413]

general duties and detective cars will all be cylinders, only the traffic cars will be 8's

Dont know about other states but in VIC this is true true true.
Some good V8s out there though. Some bad.....otherwise known as "Fords"..

[andrewdisco]

I was looking into it a while ago... and after speaking to a few friends in the police force the concensus was to definately steer clear of a city based one. So my mate called up one of the guys from Albury TMU to see if we could get an insight into how the country ones were treated (i.e not plowing up to a red light every 100 meters).

His reply was 'yeah they're well looked after. We chase someone flat out for a few km's, write out a ticket, go hide under a bridge - just long enough to let the motor cool down, and then we take off under full throttle again. We do this all day every day..."

My mate said he'd managed to use up tanks of fuel in just over 200km's... gives you and idea of how hard they are driven.

Not saying you can't have luck with them... but it's a game of russian roulet.

Have you considered a hire car instead ? :p

[dracer]

I am best mates with a TOGy here in vic, i often get on the piss with him and we share stories, pretty much from what ive been told, all cop cars have the s*it flogged out of them, my mate says he drives his flat out and screaming ever where he goes and so does his associates,
i guess it depends on who was driving it for the 40000ks, but u can befriend a cop and buy his car from auction when it comes up for sale, then u would know its history:nos:

and yes patrol cars are smashed around like a 60yr old boxer! i would never buy a normal cop car!

[HRT 8]

I was looking into it a while ago... and after speaking to a few friends in the police force the concensus was to definately steer clear of a city based one. So my mate called up one of the guys from Albury TMU to see if we could get an insight into how the country ones were treated (i.e not plowing up to a red light every 100 meters).

His reply was 'yeah they're well looked after. We chase someone flat out for a few km's, write out a ticket, go hide under a bridge - just long enough to let the motor cool down, and then we take off under full throttle again. We do this all day every day..."

My mate said he'd managed to use up tanks of fuel in just over 200km's... gives you and idea of how hard they are driven.

Not saying you can't have luck with them... but it's a game of russian roulet.

Have you considered a hire car instead ? :p


Yep. I dont know how many times it has to be said though, for people to believe it. Only thing, they now do 60,000klm.

[macca33]

Yep. I dont know how many times it has to be said though, for people to believe it. Only thing, they now do 60,000klm.


And trust me, after 60ks, even the country cars are starting to look VERY ragged.

Regards,

Macca

[dadem0n]

Yep. I dont know how many times it has to be said though, for people to believe it. Only thing, they now do 60,000klm.

Not necessarily. I bought a VZ Exec LS1 in January with 39,000klm....

[O5BRKY]

Not necessarily. I bought a VZ Exec LS1 in January with 39,000klm....

But is that in NSW?
Victoria use to be 40,000K's it's now 60,000k's.

[ratter]

But is that in NSW?
Victoria use to be 40,000K's it's now 60,000k's.

Sometimes Vic police will get rid of car earlier than the 60000 klms if it needs expensive repairs.

[Quen10]

Not necessarily. I bought a VZ Exec LS1 in January with 39,000klm....

only driven on a Sunday ??

[dadem0n]

only driven on a Sunday ??


http://www.sallad.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/oldblog/loser-thumb.jpg

[Quen10]

only driven on a Sunday ??

nice mullet.

[36b]

I have a W.A ex cop jobber, Ls1 auto, 105,000 on the dial. Drives straight as, would have around 60,000 on it minimum since it was auctioned (vt was last v8 cop car in wa) i have a hole in the fuse cover that has been coverd by a plastic like clip cover. Compared to a lot of non cop cars i looked at with a mate very recently mine is a lot better car for the $5k less i spent on it.

I had a vp ss prior to this that was an ex holden demo car, can you tell me that that car would have been treated nicley? i know a car sales man who works for holden and he's told me what happens with demo cars... they also get the ass flogged off them on staff track days etc...

any car you buy is playing with fire, people had brand spanking new vt ls1's that needed rebuilding in no time... i think any point made against them is irelevant i drive mine just as hard as any cop would why would i want to do it to a grandads car thats pulled a caravan round australia.

Just my 2 cents

[THE308]

I had an ex-detective vn v8 exec quite a few years back. And I can tell you these detectives really trash their cars! I couldn't really check at the time of purchase but later I got Pedders to check the suspension and they pointed out; 2 cracked wheel nuts and all sorts of bent suspension items. I didn't have any problem with the engine and drivetrain though. Personally I would steer away from ex-police cars.


I think you'll find if it was a V8, it was an unmarked HWP car.

The CIB has dosen't get V8's (In spite of the fact many of them would love to get their hands on one)

[THE308]

Definately agree with that. I have a few cop mates and the patrol cars get HAMMERED. The HWP guys get good cars and look after them well. No kurb hopping, roundabout jumping or cross country antics with them

If any of your "Police mates" know anyone at the worshops at Enfield, get them to show you one of the compilation tapes of some of the images downloaded from the HWP onboard cameras.

Kurb hopping, Roundabout jumping and Cross Country excursions feature prominantly!

[THE308]

Where did the 30 to 35K come from:shock: ..am I missing an outstanding retail opportunity :errr: .....your 10 to 15 K off the mark dependant on Exec or SS model....IE : 05 VZ done 40....$20K to 22K public..trade less


Ex SA Police 11/04 VZ Exec LS1 54,000km with Dual Air Bags, Antilock Brake System, Cruise Control, CD Player, FE2 Sports Suspension, Tow Bar, Power Windows, Air Conditioner, Air Bags Side Front, Police Pack (basically an SS without mags and a bootlid spoiler) recently sold for $20k

An 03/05 VZ Exec LS1 48,000 km with Dual Air Bags, Antilock Brake System, Cruise Control, CD Player, FE2 Sports Suspension, Tow Bar, Power Windows, Traction Control, Air Conditioner, Air Bags Side Front, Police Pack sold for $20,200

Pretty hard to justify spending $28k on an SS of simillar age and mileage!

[THE308]

BTW rednut, how did the officer feel about you taking his picture to post on the net? Just curious..


It doesn't really matter what he thinks or feels. If the pic is taken in a public place there's nothing anyone can do about it.

[THE308]

In my area the TMU operate 24/7 and all their unmarked cars are falcons at the momment.

I was down your way last weekend. Hastings has a RED SS.

[dadem0n]

.....

Buddy, do you really have to come on every ex-cop car thread and flood them with nonsense?

Thats now 5 consecutive posts!!!

http://members.optusnet.com.au/yeseron/Thread%20pics/20.jpg

[Mozz]

I think you'll find if it was a V8, it was an unmarked HWP car.

The CIB has dosen't get V8's (In spite of the fact many of them would love to get their hands on one)

I am pretty sure I have already posted words to the effect that there are quite a few more areas of the various state police services which use unmarked V8's other than HWP

[THE308]

I am pretty sure I have already posted words to the effect that there are quite a few more areas of the various state police services which use unmarked V8's other than HWP

I don't disagree, but Detectives or CIB aren't one of them, which was what I was referring to.

The various areas/taskforces you are talking about are essentialy subsections of the Traffic/HWP, with the exception of the odd shaddow unit, (who get about in anything they can beg borrow or steal) representing less than 1% of the V8 Police fleet.

But if my fathers almost 40 years in the job as a source of info, along with other longterm personally known and reliable sources doesn't qualify me to contribute to such threads, then I appologise. I'll let them all know how wrong they are and that they have no idea about the Police Departments they all work for. :confused:

[THE308]

Buddy, do you really have to come on every ex-cop car thread and flood them with nonsense?

Thats now 5 consecutive posts!!!

1. I don't come onto every ex-Police vehicle thread at all
2. Which particular post specifically ruffled your feathers to the point where you felt it was nonsense?
3. The 5 posts I thought were contributing towards maintaining accuracy in the thread and I'm very sorry if you percieve that as nonsense.

[5 point 7]

Back on topic, my mate has a NSW VX SS ex chaser. A year ago we took it for a hard run from Sydney up to Coffs and it was fine. Engine felt strong and pulled hard and had no obvious noises, rattles etc even with 200,000km on the clock back then. He drives it hard every single day, and he never ever takes it out of power mode. After 3 yrs owning it he hasnt had any problems and reckons it still runs sweet today. He raced cars as a pro overseas for almost 10 yrs so hes pretty critical if any problems do arise.
There are good and bad chasers around so it depends if you are lucky or not if you gonna buy one, although this still applies to any used car bought from a dealer or privately as well.
I dont know if anyone has mentioned this already, but one non standard feature his SS had was that you could bang the auto box from D straight back to 2nd without using the button on the shifter. This cop spec mod was bloody great imo. It gave the auto box a little bit of extra life, which makes it a lot more fun for the driver.
Has anyone else done this mod to their auto?
If so, is it hard to do, and can you do it yourself?
Comments please.
Btw, the digital speedo (poliice mode) being switched on always is handy as well.

[Mozz]

I don't disagree, but Detectives or CIB aren't one of them, which was what I was referring to.

The various areas/taskforces you are talking about are essentialy subsections of the Traffic/HWP, with the exception of the odd shaddow unit, (who get about in anything they can beg borrow or steal) representing less than 1% of the V8 Police fleet. :confused:

Just to confirm I am talking about sunny qld: true that general CIB don't have V8 unmarked vehicles. However given this thread is about buying ex police vehicles I have to again say that there are quite a number of V8 unmarked police vehicles which are not part of the traffic branch as you keep stating. (But traffic branch would have the larger number of V8's)

[spuddamonaro]

i agree with 5 point 7, my x-chaser has the digital speedo and the gear shift from drive to 2nd. great features.

Just generally abotu this thread, it seems that the people how do actually own a ex-chaser love the cars and rearly complain about them like myself.

however the ones that have not owned one are the ones that have nothing really good to say about them. i have had a good run with them, with 4 people i know (including myself) who own or have owned an old police car having a great car with very little if any problems.

So from someone who owns one, they are worth every cent, and its great basically having an SS, without paying the high premiums.

this is just my view on this forum

cheers

peter

[maloo_]

Not bad if you can get the smell out of them?

[seldo]

There's no denying that some of them get a bit of a caning...but so what? Many people on this forum would, from time to time, give them even more of a hiding. I used to sell comp brake-pads to the coppers up here and whilst they admit that the cars get a hard time they are serviced to death and anything even slightly suss gets replaced. I've also seen a couple of mates get 5 trouble-free years out of them. Biggest problem is that the seats and trim get a hard time due to all the gear they wear/carry, and the ...ermmm...size/weight of some of them

[kayman]

Just out of interest, What range do the VZ SS chasers go for at auctions now.

Ive heard from 27 -> 32 Thou, is this correct?

[THE308]

With 50,000km - 60,000km low $28's to high 28's

Eg. 1 COMMODORE SS V8 SEDAN VZ MARCH 2005 AUTO Kms: 53587
5.7L HERON WHITE - Dual Air Bags, Alloy Wheels, ABS, Cruise, CD Player, FE2 Suspension, Tow Bar, Power Windows, Air Con, Fog Lights, Air Bags Side Front, Sold for $28300.00


Eg. 2 COMMODORE SS V8 SEDAN VZ FEBRUARY 2005 AUTO Kms: 57450
5.7L HERON WHITE - Dual Air Bags, Alloy Wheels, ABS, Cruise, CD Player, FE2 Suspension, Tow Bar, Power Windows, Air Con, Fog Lights, Air Bags Side Front, Sold for $28800.00

[mr.potatoehead]

i know a guy that bought a vz ss x-tog for high 20's and you get what you pay for. its had all sorts of electrical problems... plus they get the absolute arse chewed out of them, i mean come on, If you had a brand new SS for a company car that gets sent to the auctions after 40,000kms how would you treat it? :burnout:

[whitessute]

Have just purchased a 2004 VZ SS ex police car 3 weeks ago, 63000 km 29990, no issues yet will let you all know if the arse falls out of it.

Just happy to have an LS1

[Desertraptor]

My last VX V6 Sedan was an ex cop car. It had 38K on it at $33K. I bought right before the 2nd market dropped :(

Still it was a very well maintained and in excellent condition. Even smelled like new still. I never had any mods done but it felt pretty quick.

[NuffNuff]

My last VX V6 Sedan was an ex cop car. It had 38K on it at $33K. I bought right before the 2nd market dropped :(

Still it was a very well maintained and in excellent condition. Even smelled like new still. I never had any mods done but it felt pretty quick.

i have an ex medical (some hospital? cant remember) VX with 82,000 on it and still smelt like new till i kept doing KFC runs :doh:

[Cruzadr]

I recently bought a 2002 VX II SS, and didn't really care or ask whether it was a cop car or not other than to ask how many owners were there and it was mentioned. I went through the inspection just like any normal car, even got my mate (works for Australian Fleet Sales) to check it over and we found nothing wrong and it drives sweet.
Now every idiot when I mention that it was a cop car seems fond of saying 'oh it's shit then, cops thrash their cars, i've got a mate who's a cop...bla bla bla...' But for some reason if the previous owner was a 26 year old male everything is sweet so that means that dude would have never thrashed it and he had kept it maintained by certified mechanics because his strictly monitored budget and procedures paid for with tax-payers (voters) money meant he had to.
Gimme a break please, its a nice car, I got a good price move on, don't be a hater...ahem.

[VZSSDEVILYEL]

Hi
i have 2 cop cars the latest being a vz ss in devil yellow (see avatair) it was a vic highway patrol cart for their SMART program i have no problem with it at all 55k only 12 months old when purchased nov last year now done 90k and driven daily
the only thing is holden dealership replaced a cracked Z bar last week because they knew it was a cop car other wise they wouldnt have bothered
more than happy with it and im sure a holden dealership would not sell a car that was not up to standard thier name is on the line if a crap one was sold
cheers

[Brandonsdad]

If that is all that the budget allows then no problem. I had a VT 5Ltr ex cop from an auction and there were only a couple compartment things and a centre console lid that I had to buy and that was it. I never had any mechanical problems with at all. Most of the V8s are used for highway cruising so the ks on it are probably less stressed ones, as opposed to city driving. Of course it would have been redlined a few times, but who doesnt do that anyway. If you bought one privately with the same amount of ks on it, how do you know how it has been driven, maybe worse. At least the ex cop would have more warranty than a private one, as the cop car would do the ks in a far shorter time. Good luck.

[T_Kiwi]

my thoughts on ex cop cars? Already been thrashed. Dont buy:)

[Big_Valven]

IMO The highway cars are a good find, they don't need to work hard for day to day driving, yes they have all had a boot in their lifetime but there aren't many LS1/2s that haven't. I'd go for it if I was in the market for a used stock white SS.

My mate has a VXI Exec (ecotec) that was a country pursuit car, it's in great shape and has been for some years.

[ozengines]

I have just bought today, an Ex Chaser 2002 VX II SS V8 Commodore and I am also new to the forum. I want to learn from others about these cars as it is my first V8 also.
This goes runs well, sounds tight and flys.
It will get its first run from the North Coast of NSW to Newcastle in a few weeks, I will be interested in fuel consumption.
Also I have found Shannons Insurance the cheapest so far, does anyone know of cheaper comprehensive insurance. Hope it is OK to mention companies on this forum?
Peter.

[Brandonsdad]

The guy that started this thread has probably already bought a car or he has died by now.

[BLACKVE]

Yes it's a old thread:rofl:

Mate bought a VZ V8 exec from sa police auto was fried slipping in 3 and 4th only 58,000km's. When you buy from auction you do run a risk!!!!!!! Auto was replaced under warranty has sold on since new owner very happy about his sleeper v8 badges deleted and many mods.:)