VL BATHURSTThe VL Group Bathurst was yet another model available in the VL series and was available with either the 4.9 litre engine or an optional 5.6 litre which copped a 30 thou overbore, heavy duty crank and bearings, oversize pistons along with a Tuftrided camshaft. Cars fiited with the optional 5.6 litre engine were referred to as the 'Bathurst Stroker'. The cars were based on either an Executive or Berlina and externally, the Bathurst copped the same wheels as the VL Group 3, as well as the same front spolier and side skirts. Rear wing and grille come from the Group A parts bin with the rear apron supplied courtesy of the LE. Interior remained standard except for the fitment on the obligatory Momo steering wheel. However, the 5.6 Bathurst received retrimmed seats and door trims. Suspension was Brock's HDT System II suspension, including stiffer springs with double rubber mounting blocks all round (4.9 only), reinforced top strut mounts and modifed front suspension geometry. 5.6 litre cars also copped Bilstein strut inserts, as well as stiffer Bilstein shock absorbers in the rear along with stiffer front and rear anti roll bars. In addition, the Bathurst and Aero Packages could be combined, making a "Bathurst Aero" which was a very rare combination. As these cars were developed towards the end of HDT under Brock's direction, there would be very few of these cars actually produced. |
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