Coming to Oz, Seeking Holden/HSV, and Need Advice
Bottom Line Up Front: Interested in a 2002-2004 V8 Holden/HSV to bring back to America when I leave in a few years. Pics for the tax.
Amplification:
I'm an American servicemember who stands a good chance of getting orders to Oz around the New Year. As the pics above indicate, I've made a habit of collecting cars from places I've been stationed; a 1994 Nissan Skyline GT-R from Japan and an ex-British Army Land Rover from the UK. I'd love to add a Holden to my collection.
More specifically, I'm interested in a proper V8 sedan with a manual. I'm limited by US import laws, which restrict me to 25 years-or-older, which works out to a max vintage of 2004.
I've looked at used car listings and seem to keep finding myself drawn to Holden Commodores and HSV Clubsports. The contemporary Fords' styling is off-putting, and the commonality the Holdens have with GMs stateside proudcts helps reassure me that I'll be more easily able to source (some) parts. Plus, the LS1 is pretty legendary for reliability and modability.
Anything I should know when looking through listings or pitfalls to be aware of? Insider tips? Angry fist-shaking at a bloody Yank looking to steal away a genuine piece of Australian muscle heritage?
Cheers in advance.