Leading automotive retailer Autobarn is restoring a 1985 VK Commodore back to its former glory and giving it away to one lucky loyalty program customer.
The car is being restored in partnership with TV show Resto My Ride, as part of Autobarn’s 40-year birthday celebrations, which kicks off this month.
The five litre, 400hp, V8, automatic transmission car restoration will be completed over the coming months and will have subtle Autobarn branding elements throughout.
Megan Foster, EGM Bapcor Retail, said the special project was being done to honour Autobarn’s rich history and close connection to its customers.
“What started as a handful of independent automotive retailers joining forces to protect their business from growing competition back in 1985, has transformed into one of Australia’s leading automotive retailers with 144 stores across the country,” Foster said.
“We wouldn’t be celebrating 40 years in the business if it wasn’t for our customers. From the motoring enthusiasts to the everyday drivers, our customers are what keeps us going. We’re confident that this VK restoration will bring one of our customers many years of joy.”
Dec McKearney, car restorer and host of Resto My Ride, said he is excited to bring this one-of-a-kind build to life with Autobarn.
“This isn’t just a restoration – it’s a one-off build that celebrates everything we love about Aussie car culture. We’re keeping the iconic HDT styling, and we’ll be rebuilding it with all brand-new parts. There will also be a few custom touches you won’t see anywhere else. 100’s of hours will go into this build to make it truly legendary,” McKearney said.
Progress on the car restoration will be shared across Autobarn’s social channels over the coming months.
To be eligible to win the restored VK, customers must be signed up to Autobarn’s loyalty program, Accelerate Rewards, which is free to join, and follow the restoration journey to learn more on how to win. The competition winner will be announced in early November.