Video: Blown VF SSV Dyno

We knew it wouldn't take long for late-model Commodore modifiers to latch onto the VF with the usual array of parts such as over-the-radiator intakes, exhaust systems, suspension and brake parts and the like appearing pretty quickly. It happens each and every time a new model is released and this one was no different. What we didn't expect was for one of the earliest modified examples to be as comprehensively modified in the engine department as this!

The guys at C&A Auto Fashion have a long history with modifying LS-powered Commodores and so when Barry Bourke Holden rang them last month to let them know that both of their brand new cars were ready for collection, they couldn't have got their any quicker. The cars in question are both black SSV variants and were destined to be R&D vehicles for the company.

Con told us that he was staright on the phone to his suppliers to give them the good news and to tell them that he needed some go-fast parts. Lots of them. Now.

The parts in question all centre around that incredible Magnuson Heartbeat supercharger and the job it has to do. It's a killer looking bit of gear and when installed appears very near factory in appearance, such is the attention to detail that this kit provides. Truthfully, the uneducated would be hard-pressed to pick something in this engine bay that couldn't pass for factory fitment.

Complementing the blower is a VCM Performance intake, Higgins CNC-ported cylinder heads, a custom camshaft, double-row timing chain, a full DiFilippo exhaust system including new headers, an NPC twin-plate clutch and a fuel system upgrade. The Magnuson kit is extremely comprehensive and Con said that the fit and finish left nothing to be desired.

Initial tuning and dyno runs saw the car make 463kW at the rear wheels - a significant improvement over stock and at just 10psi of intake manifold pressure. Further, Con performed three runs back-to-back within a very small amount of time paying special attention to the intake temperatures and was impressed to see values below 50degC, even after the third pull.

After further tuning the C&A Auto Fashion dyno showed 480kW at the wheels, still on premium unleaded fuel and still at a very conservative boost level. The car is now making more power at the driven wheels than its big brother, the blown 6.2L HSV GTS, is supposed to be making at the flywheel. Job done - 'PHATF' is a beast!

For further details and a complete blow-by-blow of the modifications performed, pick up Street Commodores Magazine #216, on sale in October.

Special thanks to the following businesses that made this feature possible:

C&A Auto Fashion

Magnuson Superchargers Australia

Higgins Race Heads

VCM Performance

Barry Bourke Holden

NPC Performance Clutches

Di Fillipo Performance Exhausts

Fullboost.com.au