The VK Commodore (with SS Group A bodywork including the single slot front grille) was also a popular choice in Bob Jane's AUSCAR racing category which began in 1987. As per AUSCAR rules, the Commodore's used the 5.0-litre Holden V8 engine, though they were also permitted to use the Group A developed 4.9-litre V8 if they so desired. However, unlike in Group A racing the reduction in engine size would not see a reduction to the cars minimum weight in AUSCAR. Shocking the male establishment, 18-year-old female driver Terri Sawyer won the first ever AUSCAR race, the AUSCAR 200, at the $54 million Calder Park Thunderdome in Melbourne driving a VK Commodore.