HOLDEN Commodore Sedan 1997-2002 Photos, engines & full specs

As part of General Motors, Holden received a European platform for the well-known nameplate Commodore and adapted it for the Australian market.

The 1997 Commodore was based on the European Opel/Vauxhall Omega. Cadillac built the Catera on the same platform, but for the U.S. market, it didn't work that well. Cadillac should have listened to the Holden and get that version instead.

Its rounded shapes with the curved roofline and a split-grille at the front were just a few distinct elements for the '97 Commodore Sedan. While it was a medium-big vehicle for the European customers, it was just a regular family sedan built better for the Australians. Its rounded but angled headlights offered an aggressive look. Holden's engineers refined the rear part of the car and improved its aerodynamic.

Inside, the Commodore was large enough for five adults, with good legroom for all of them despite the tall transmission tunnel. It was the hip-area that prevented three passengers from sitting on the rear bench. Holden carried over the dashboard and instrument cluster from the Vauxhall Omega. The Australian carmaker was quite successful with this VT generation of the Commodore, and it was the base vehicle for future models, including utility vehicles and Police interceptors.

Unlike its European or British siblings, Holden invested in the new platform and made it more suitable for the harsh Australian environment. Its engine ranged from a 3.8-liter V-6 to an LS1 Chevrolet V-8 engine.