HSV GTSR W1: Time for Tea?

Australian media have got hold of the 640hp HSV swansong, and they're rather keen on it...

While we won't be getting the HSV GTSR W1 in the UK, that doesn't stop us being very excited about it. Rather like the current breed of muscle cars coming out of the US, it combines huge power with some really exciting chassis tech and - praise be - a manual gearbox, to create the kind of driver's car we didn't think was made anymore.

But in the W1's case, of course, it really won't be made any more. This is the final Holden Special Vehicles car to be built in Australia as production over there ends, the Holden line up seemingly switching to rebadged GMs going forwards. Sad.

As such, it's quite a big moment for the Australian automotive industry. And, while all the cars have been sold, a few journalists down under have been given a go. Unsurprisingly perhaps, they're quite keen on it, as this CarAdvice video demonstrates.

In all fairness though, who wouldn't be? This is the first production ever to feature Pirelli Trofeo R tyres as standard fitment. The dampers are passive, built by the same company that does the HSV V8 Supercar dampers. The front brakes are larger than you'll find on a V8 Supercar. It makes 640hp and sounds angry, like Taz when he's really, really irate. And supercharged. It is, in the words of this reviewer, "f***ing incredible".

Best of all, there's more than one video. They've all had a go. So fill your boots with some V8 fury this afternoon, and let's all celebrate just what the Australians have achieved here. Thanks HSV, it's been rather good fun.

Watch the video here.