WK Statesman and Caprice

Holden followed up the resounding success of its VT Commodore-based, long wheelbase WH with the VY-derived WK.

A new nose and tail treatment reflected the more angular lines Holden was heading towards, while there were worthwhile upgrades in the steering and suspension departments.

Engine choices were once again a regular (152kW/305Nm) or supercharged (171kW/375Nm Statesman-only) versions of the ageing Buick 3.8-litre OHV ECOTEC V6, or two variations of the American GEN-III 5.7-litre V8 – a 235kW/460 (Statesman V8) or 245kW/460Nm (Caprice).

The latter outputs reflected the sportier tune of the range-topping Caprice compared to the more conservative Statesman, along with firmer suspension, larger wheels and self-levelling suspension.

Equipment levels are high in both models, with the Caprice adding leather upholstery, a rear DVD player, parking radar, and satellite assistance.

Sales remained strong, particularly against the luckless Ford Fairlane and LTD.

This was the US ECOTEC V6 engine’s last outing before the Australian-assembled global 3.6-litre HFV6 units arrived for the WL makeover a little over a year later.