Holden Commodore Berlina 2004 Review

For the used-car buyer, the second owner, it's often true you can buy a more luxurious model without paying much more than the cost of a base car.

With Holden, for instance, the Berlina is the next model up the line from the Executive. The VS II Berlina cost $8230 more when new, but now costs little more than $2000 more than an Executive.

MODEL WATCH
The final fling in the second generation Commodore line was the VS II released in 1996. It was designed to keep the old model fresh enough to attract buyers until the all-new VT arrived in 1997. The big news in the VS was the introduction of the smooth ECOTEC V6 engine. The same 3.8 litres in capacity, the new engine was an all-new unit that was much smoother than its predecessor, produced more power (147kW) and used less fuel (6 per cent).

For those who wanted more punch, the 5.0-litre Holden V8 was optional. The all-Aussie V8 was coming to the end of the line, it was eventually replaced by the American Gen III 5.7-litre V8 in VT II.

Although it dated back to 1968, the Holden V8 had been regularly updated and was a much-loved powerplant by those who appreciated its low-down punch and pulling power. In VS II it put out 168kW.

A four-speed auto trans was standard and the rear axle was a live unit. Buying a Berlina was about buying more creature comforts.

Inside, the Berlina buyer got velour trim, automatic climate control airconditioning, cruise control, power boot release, power mirrors, power steering, trip computer, sports seats and a radio cassette sound system with six speakers. Remote central locking improved security, ABS improved the braking and alloy wheels improved its looks.

IN THE SHOP
Holden build quality and paint improved dramatically with the VR and VS models and a new paint shop was commissioned in time for VR II production at the Elizabeth plant. The ECOTEC V6, too, is generally quite reliable. Look for oil leaks around the timing cover, rocker covers and oil pan. Make similar checks on the V8. Problem areas are power steering pumps, which leak oil and are known to fail, electric fuel pump in the fuel tank, which is known to break down and the power-steering rack, known to leak oil.

When checking the power-steering rack, check the rubber boots carefully for damage, tears, splits and cracks.

Look carefully at the front and rear bumpers and mountings for possible minor bingle damage. Look for misalignment where bumpers might have been poorly re-attached after repairs. Many Berlinas were leased by company execs and were usually turned over quite quickly so check for a service record.

CRUNCH TIME
Holden became the first local car maker to fit dual airbags to its car when it made driver and passenger airbags standard in the VS Acclaim and Calais. Sadly the Berlina had to make do with a standard driver's airbag.

According to the recent used-car survey of real-life crashes, the VS Commodore performs pretty well.

OWNERS VIEWS
Kim Maxwell loves the power of the V8 in her 1997 Berlina, but not the fuel consumption that goes with it. Maxwell and husband Garry have owned the car from new and say it has been very reliable in the 180,000km it has now done and the engine hasn't missed a beat, adds Garry.