2002 Holden HSV HRT 427 Concept Pictures, Specifications, Information

The launch of HSV's sensational Coupé model, in December 2001, immediately sparked widespread speculation about a two-door high performance flagship that would make the transition to the racetrack.

That's no surprise when you consider HSV's unique commitment to motorsport. Over its history the HSV brand has been built on motorsport success and creating exhilarating road cars that contain serious levels of motorsport derived DNA. Indeed, 85% of HSV buyers nominate motorsport as their number 1 recreational interest. Now, the racetrack concept, which simmered within both HSV and Holden, has boiled over with the two companies collaborating to create the breathtaking HRT 427.

Essentially the development roles were split, with Holden responsible for styling and HSV for the project management, engineering and building of the car. Holden's Design Team got the ball rolling with a clean, subtle styling package. Features include an HRT style aerodynamic undertray to increase downforce, dual twin-exhaust outlets and a rear bumper cutout with diffuser to accommodate the dual exhausts and an aluminium drop-tank.

Racing heritage features under the bonnet with a V8 engine that shares its 427 cubic inch (7.0 litre) capacity with the legendary big block Chev. Based on a Corvette C5R race engine, it's been hand built by HRT technicians, incorporating their own unique piston and CNC cylinder head design. This very special powerplant feeds through eight individual throttle bodies with carbon fibre trumpets.

HRT 427 is the ideal showcase for potential new HSV production technology, said project head, Brad Dunstan, TWR (Aust)'s Manager of Advanced Engineering.

"We"ve taken every performance and handling idea we have in the book and incorporated them into the HRT 427. One of the developments for this car that we hope to get into future HSV production is the double "A" arm front suspension."

The race-style system consists of a set of beautifully crafted aluminium "A" arms, complete with fully adjustable dampers, which take the place of the Coupé's standard strut front suspension.

Everywhere you look there's seriously high spec performance mechanicals. A heavy-duty 900Nm clutch transmits the engine's prodigious output to a special T56 six-speed manual gearbox. Hand built for HSV by Tremec (makers of the standard T56), it features the same lower ratios as the Corvette Z06 and includes triple synchros to reduce shift effort.

Braking is via a race-bred AP Racing six piston system including competition style full floating and grooved rotors. Inside, there's a half roll-cage and Sparco Pro 2000 driving seats (as used in the British Touring Car Championship) to hold the driver securely in place behind an HRT style steering wheel and Motec instrument panel.

A strict weight reduction program, instigated to further enhance performance, sees it tip the scales at just 1575kg or 100kg less than HSV's GTS Coupé. Exotic materials abound, including a carbon fibre bonnet (saving 14kgs alone) manufactured using a revolutionary Australian process called "Quickstep" and magnesium for the HRT inspired 18-inch wheels and the unique differential housing. Audio and air conditioning systems are deleted, as are the rear seats which are replaced with carbon fibre panels to cover the lightweight dry cell battery.

Given its tremendous engine output and significantly reduced weight, the HRT 427 is certain to deliver devastating performance, said Dunstan.

"Could anyone be so courageous as to contemplate an Australian built supercar that provides a serious challenge to the performance credentials of the Porsche 911 GT2?"

"We believe that our $500,000 investment in the HRT 427 concept car will pay significant dividends, not only in continuing to showcase HSV's and HRT's image as the industry leaders in niche cars, but also by giving the HSV brand extra global presence as we continue to explore export opportunities for our company."