The Walkinshaw: Why Model Car Collectors Can’t Get Enough

Built between 1986 and 1988, it was the final and most polished version of the first-gen Commodore, with more than 151,000 produced.

Compared to the VK it replaced, the VL looked sharper and more modern with smoother lines, slimmer headlights and that subtle boot lip spoiler that nailed the stance.

HSV VL WALKINSHAW

The Walkinshaw, officially the SS Group A SV, was built to race first and worry about the road later. It was produced by Holden Special Vehicles as a Group A homologation special and was the very first car to carry the HSV name. The original plan was to build the required 500 cars so it could go racing, but demand was so strong that production was lifted to 750.

All were finished in Panorama Silver and fitted with a Tom Walkinshaw Racing bodykit that was engineered to improve aerodynamics for racing. Under the bonnet sat a fuel injected 5.0 litre Holden V8, specially strengthened for competition, making the Walkinshaw a serious performance car rather than a showpiece.

MODEL CAR RELEASE

Low build numbers, real racing history and HSV heritage are why the Walkinshaw name still means so much today. So when DDA Collectibles announced their 1:24 scale VL Walkinshaw and Calais range in August 2025, collectors jumped on it straight away.

The models range from factory correct originals to insane custom builds, all capturing the look and feel of the real cars. This is exactly why the release took off and why you’ll want to check out the full lineup below.

Purple Supercharged HSV VL Walkinshaw

This is the latest release in the range and the very first supercharged HSV VL Walkinshaw to be produced.

Release date: January 2026
Limited edition: 1,500 pieces
Colour: Deep purple
Engine: Supercharged LS engine
Wheels: Custom low profile
Chase varients: Only 3-5% of total production

Even though it’s a custom creation, you can easily picture something like this turning heads at Summernats.

1988 HSV VL Commodore SS Group A SV Walkinshaw

The Holden Special Vehicles VL SS Group A SV, better known as the Walky, stands as HSV’s debut creation and a true icon of Australian automotive culture. 

Release date: August 2025
Colour: Panorama Silver
Engine: 5.0-litre Holden V8 engine​​​​​​​
Wheels: Original 16-inch alloy wheels
Chase varients: Only 3-5% of total production

This model is part of DDA Collectibles core range, meaning it isn’t a limited edition and will continue to be produced based on demand.