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I am looking at buying a VT Series II S or SS Holden Commodore. Is there much of a difference between the standard V6 and the supercharged version of the S model, and is the SS version tougher than the S because of the V8 power train? Which is better on fuel and service/part costs?

The supercharged version of the ECOTEC V6 is an option in the Commodore S and produces 171kW compared with 147kW produced by the normally aspirated V6, which is the standard engine. One thing you might want to consider is that the supercharged engine is only available with the four-speed auto transmission where there is a choice of manual or auto with the standard V6. The auto tends to dull the driving experience of the supercharged V6, but it is still a lively engine and fun to drive. The VT Series II saw the introduction of the 5.7-litre Gen III Chev V8 which is a relatively high-revving V8 compared with the old Holden V8 it replaced, but it is also a fun engine to drive and comes with a choice of auto or six-speed manual. There is no significant difference in servicing or parts costs with either the S or the SS, but we are aware that some Gen III V8s have had problems with piston rattle and high oil consumption and you should carefully check for any sign of these problems with any car you are considering buying.

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