How to Buy a HSV Jackaroo: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re in the market for a HSV Jackaroo, you’re looking at a unique piece of Australian motoring history. Below, you’ll find information on how to identify, authenticate, and assess these vehicles before you buy. This guide also covers their value, differences between models, and what to watch out for with regard to gearboxes and overall condition.

1. Authenticity and Identification 
HSV vs SE Models There are two types of HSV Jackaroos:
1993 HSV
1994/1995 SE
Both are genuine HSV vehicles and can be authenticated through HSV in the same way as any other HSV model. However, unlike Commodore-based HSVs (where you typically use the VIN, Chassis number or HSV identification plate), these Jackaroos rely on the Holden order plate for verification. Locating the Order Plate On the radiator support panel, above the passenger-side headlight, you will find two plates:
One for the VIN and Engine Number.
One for the Holden order details, which HSV use to identify these vehicles.

Key Identifiers 
8DQ35 for the HSV model
8DS35 for the SE model
The HSV Identification Number starts with a letter followed by seven digits.
To authenticate your Jackaroo, you’ll need the Holden order number, the vehicle’s VIN, and the build number. HSV may also request photos of the vehicle. Start the authentication process as you would for any other HSV. However, since your vehicle won’t appear in the initial check, you’ll need to contact HSV directly and follow up with an email.

Authenticate my HSV

2. What Are They Worth?Price Range You may see them advertised anywhere from $1,000 to $15,000.
Actual value depends on vehicle condition, odometer reading, and what you’re willing to pay.
Because of their age and typical usage (often as off-road or family vehicles), most have high kilometre readings (280,000 km+ is common). However, well-maintained examples with intact upholstery, working stereo, and general mechanical soundness can sell for $6,000+. Typical Listings Most come up for sale in the $1,000 to $4,000 range.
Major value factors include body condition, interior wear, and mechanical history rather than just odometer readings.

3. Differences Between the HSV and the SE
HSV (1993) Based on the Jackaroo S (base model).
Includes a HSV bodykit, SV5000-style wheels, and interior styling touches similar to early HSV Commodores (e.g. VN LS, VP Nitron).
Air conditioning is standard, but otherwise it has minimal factory inclusions.
The wiring loom allows for upgrades from higher-spec Jackaroos (like the XS), so additional features (power windows, central locking, etc.) can be retrofitted if you can find the parts.
SE (1994/1995) Still features a HSV bodykit and SV5000-style wheels, but no roof racks, spoiler, HSV badging or HSV interior.
Comes with “captain’s chairs” and unique SE styling.
Replaces the XS in the Jackaroo range, so it has many factory options: two-tone paint, power windows, central locking, air conditioning, and more.
The main HSV identification on the SE is an SE badge on the C-pillar (location and design changed from October 1995 onwards, when the SE Jackaroo received a midlife update. These vehicles are not HSV’s).

4. Auto vs Manual Gearboxes One major decision when buying any Jackaroo is choosing between automatic and manual transmission. Automatic (4L30E) Smooth shifting, easy to drive, and capable of light off-road work.
Sits comfortably at 110 km/h on the freeway.
Known Weakness: Needs an aftermarket transmission cooler fitted in-line with the radiator cooler. Poor maintenance can cause overheating and failure.
A rebuilt 4L30E can fail again after as few as 20,000 km if not properly cared for.
Rebuild Costs: Generally range from $3,000 to $5,000. Rebuild kits for the clutch packs start at around $600, up to $1,500 depending on required parts.
If you’re looking for a donor gearbox, the 4L30E from a 1992–1997 Jackaroo or a Holden Rodeo 4WD with the 6VD1 engine should fit. (Diesel auto gearboxes are not compatible.)
Towing: Strongly discouraged with the auto, as it increases the chance of overheating.
Fuel Consumption: IVO 15L/100kms Freeway – Premium 98

Manual Often considered the more robust choice.
The clutch pedal can be heavy if components (like the throw-out bearing) are worn.
Cruises comfortably at around 115 km/h, typically with minimal throttle input.
Great for towing. Many owners find the manual version outperforms the auto in terms of reliability and capability.
Mechanically, it’s nearly identical to a TS/T9 Rodeo manual setup.
Fuel Consumption: IVO 11L/100kms Freeway – Premium 98

5. Build Numbers and Availability 
Prototype (1992): 2 built with build numbers JAC1 (Silver) and JAC2 (Red) - (AIMS 1992) - Possibly repurposed or destroyed.
HSV (1993): 79 built with build numbers up to 082. Cars 003, 004 and 063 were never built or publicly released (Confirmed with HSV).
SE (1994/1995): 234 built, across four known colours (Red, White, Silver, and Maroon — not the official colour names). Cars 014, 165, 178, 235 were never built (Confirmed with HSV)

 In reality, both HSV and SE versions are rare. Current estimates suggest only about 13 complete 1993 HSV vehicles remain, and rough estimates for the SE are around 30+, with possibly half of those on the road. Because they are genuine HSV vehicles, they are also eligible for membership with official HSV clubs around Australia.