Commodore ZB V8
The Holden Commodore ZB V8 Supercars features naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 producing 635+ horsepower at 7,500 rpm maximum through six-speed sequential transmission and rear-wheel-drive at 1,395kg minimum weight including driver. Supercars specification includes GM 305 Aurora Racing engine block with CNC-machined aluminum heads, dry-sump lubrication system, control V8 Supercar camshaft, Triple Eight Race Engineering double-wishbone suspension, comprehensive aerodynamic package with splitter and rear wing, racing fuel cell, FIA-compliant roll cage, and sophisticated electronics managing engine mapping and data acquisition supporting professional racing operations.
Commodore ZB Supercars launched 2018 represents Holden factory racing effort in Australian Supercars Championship competing against Ford Mustang in iconic manufacturer rivalry, maintaining V8 configuration despite production ZB adopting front-wheel-drive architecture imported from Opel Insignia creating disconnect between race car and showroom model. The controlled-specification V8 Supercars regulations create competitive parity through common components and Balance of Performance adjustments, with 0-100 km/h capability in 3.2 seconds and 300 km/h top speed demonstrating genuine performance credentials, establishing professional touring car platform supporting manufacturer marketing investment and driver development, representing final Holden Supercars era before brand discontinuation 2021 ending Australian automotive manufacturing heritage and seventy-year nameplate history, with ZB establishing bittersweet conclusion to storied racing legacy achieving championship success while brand faced terminal decline in passenger car market dominated by imports and SUVs.