HSV proud of W427 program

Although just 137 were sold, HSV managing director, Phil Harding, says the car was still a success. “Some journalists and commentators seem to suggest that because we didn't make our volumes - whatever number that was, the program failed, he says.

“As far as I am concerned, the program was a success.” Harding, who was involved in all stages of the W427s development, says the business case for the car always focused on three possible build numbers - 100, 150 and 200.

Harding says that building and selling - to order - the 137 W427s was a major achievement. Particularly given we launched the car into the market in July 2008, just weeks before the entire world financial system almost ground to a halt, he says.

Harding says he would like to do another W427-style car but not for a few years. “Absolutely,” he says. “I would like to do another hero car but there needs to be some breathing space between the W427 and another program.”

The 7.0-litre V8 W427 cost $155,500 and was ordered by a handful of HSV fans for its high-end engineering. HSV chose 427 as the model designation because thats the cars non-metric cubic-inch capacity.