Remember when Holden and Falcon Utes were the workhorses of Australia. And for real street cred you could opt for a HSV Maloo (Aboriginal for Thunder). The last of the first generation of Maloo Utes is the VS Series 11 and this very original example is presented for sale in Diablo Red running the factory 185kW 5 Litre V8 and 5 speed manual gearbox. For sale from Launceston, Tasmania.

The Maloo followed the tried and tested HSV formula, itself taken from Peter Brock and his earlier HDT operation. In essence it was to take a regular run-of-the-mill model from Holden's product line-up and modify it to create something pretty special.

HSV's makeover included the fitting of a colour-keyed body kit made up of 10 parts, including a grille, front bumper, side skirts, and rear bumper. There was also a sports bar in the rear, along with an HSV monogrammed tonneau cover, as well as badges and decals to let the neighbours know that your Ute was something extra special.

HSV boosted the output of the Aussie 5.0-litre V8 engine with the use of a high-flow dual exhaust system, a free-flowing air cleaner, both of which allowed the engine to breathe better, and finally a recalibrated engine management computer that took the engine closer to the limit. The result was peak power of 185kW @ 4800 rpm and torque of 400nm @ 3600 rpm, an increases of 20kW and 20Nm over the rock-stock Holden V8 ute.

Maloo buyers could choose between a five-speed manual gearbox, which was untouched, or a four-speed auto that was recalibrated to shift cleaner and crisper. When pressed, the Maloo would reach 100 km/h in a fraction over seven seconds from rest; and account for the standing 400-metre sprint in around 15.5 secs.

The Maloo's developers gave the Maloo a sporting feel by using low profile tyres, softer rear springs, along with the front suspension from the SV5000 sedan.

For sale is one of only 107 VS Series 11 Maloo Utes built. Purchased by the current third owner in 2016, the Maloo features the all matching numbers 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 185 kW (248 hp). Build No. 296 (of all VS Maloos built - all series) is presented in signature Diablo Red, and was originally sold through A.C McGrath & Co, Liverpool, NSW. It features the sought after 5 speed manual gearbox and LSD and comes with the original LOG BOOKS, 190,723 Klms on the clock, owners manuals and some service history.

The body is in very straight, damage and rust free condition with all original paint with only minor marks in the clear coat showing. The front bumper has recently been professionally resprayed due to stone chips. Otherwise, the rest of the car is original factory paint. The Maloo retains the original engraved HSV front grille, bumper sail plane and side skirts, the HSV-styled five-spoke 16 x 7 inch alloys as well as the original headlights, taillights and even the original HSV tonneau cover. The tyres are excellent 225/50 R16 all round with the spare the factory steel rim with a new Goodyear tyre.

Included in the sale is the original HSV radio cassette and original HSV floor mats. The Maloo has the working HSV integrated security system with two genuine HSV fobs and two central locking Holden keys. The electric windows and mirrors are working as is the ice cold factory air conditioning. The Maloo is fitted with a Holden tub liner.

The owner has recently replaced the starter motor, fuel pump, all fluids, filters and brake pads.

A genuine 3 owner HSV and the last of the first generation of HSV's highly collectible 'sport pick-up', this would make a great example to sit next to your 2016 HSV GTS-R Maloo Ute.

Last registered in 2019, the Maloo is offered for sale from Launceston, Tasmania. (Ref: 6313)

If you wish, AMCS will gladly arrange a video tour of the car using WhatsApp and of course there is no issue with door to door freight delivery anywhere in Australia or New Zealand.

View on the Australian Muscle Car Sales website