HSV GTSR W1 passed in at $257,500

AUSTRALIAN performance car enthusiasts have seen the first of Holden Special Vehicles’ exclusive GTSR W1 tested in the market at auction last night fall $12,490 short of the $100,000 premium the supercar was expected to make over its $169,990 (plus on-road costs) purchase price.

Those attending the regular Prestige Auction conducted by Manheim at Altona near Melbourne watched the W1 passed in at $257,500.

Negotiations are underway between the highest bidder and the vendor so the final price may not be known publicly.

It was thought that the seller of the W1 – which is the most expensive, fastest and most powerful production car ever made in Australia – would make a quick $100,000 by selling it on immediately after taking delivery from the dealer.

The W1 was complete with its delivery plastic protection to maintain it in pristine condition for potential collectors. Just 300 of the limited-edition Holden Commodore-based super-sedans are being made.

The W1 was an instant sell-out when announced earlier this year and many owners are still waiting for delivery or on a waiting list.

Meanwhile, cars were sold under the hammer included a 2009 Lamborghini Murcielago LP-640 Coupe for $377,000, a 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder Cabriolet for $210,000 and a 2011 Bentley Continental 3W Coupe for $175,500.