60 Years Anniversary Edition - PDF - media.gm.com

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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» PM Ben Chifley launches the first Holden
The Holden Heritage 14th Edition
ISBN - 978-0-646-49587-3 © Copyright GM Holden Ltd
ABN 84 006 893 232
Published by GM Holden Corporate Affairs Department
191 Salmon Street, Port Melbourne Victoria Australia
The First Holden - 60th Anniversary
“She’s a beauty!” said Prime Minister Ben Chifley when
Australia’s Own Car was unveiled in November 1948.
GPO Box 1714 Melbourne Victoria Australia
30 YEARS OF COMMODORE: 1978 - 2008
Tel: +61 3 9647 1111 Fax: +61 3 9647 1997
All hail Holden’s most successful and enduring nameplate.
Home of the Holden - 50th Anniversary
Page 16
Marvellous Monaro Turns 40
Page 62
www.holden.com.au
Produced by Fineprint Productions
Design by Cate Forbes
Edited by Kay Jeeves
Printed in Australia July 2008
100 Years of General Motors: 1908 - 2008
When ‘king of the carriage makers’ William Durant took over the Buick Motor Car Company in 1902, he brashly predicted that “a million cars a year would someday be in demand.” The Holden brand name grew up and came of age in South Australia. At Elizabeth, Holden Vehicle Operations continues the tradition.
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Page 111
The sensationally stylish HK Holden Monaro sports coupe came ‘Out To Drive You Wild’ in 1968 and the legend lives on.
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COUNTDOWN TO THE FIRST HOLDEN
SHE’S A BEAUTY!
GM HOLDEN TODAY
FAMILY HOLDENS THROUGH THE YEARS
1948 48-215 HOLDEN
1940s HOLDEN HIGHLIGHTS
1953 FJ HOLDEN
1956 FE HOLDEN
1958 FC HOLDEN
1960 FB HOLDEN
1961 EK HOLDEN
1962 EJ HOLDEN
1963 EH HOLDEN
1965 HD HOLDEN
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1966 HR HOLDEN
1968 HK HOLDEN
1969 HT HOLDEN
1970 HG HOLDEN
1971 HQ HOLDEN
1974 HJ HOLDEN
1976 HX HOLDEN
1977 HZ HOLDEN
30 YEARS OF COMMODORE 1978 - 2008
1978 VB COMMODORE
1980 VC COMMODORE
1981 VH COMMODORE
1984 VK COMMODORE
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1986 VL COMMODORE
1988 VN COMMODORE
1991 VP COMMODORE
1993 VR COMMODORE
1995 VS COMMODORE
1997 VT COMMODORE
2000 VX COMMODORE
2002 VY COMMODORE
2004 VZ COMMODORE
2006 VE COMMODORE
HISTORY OF THE HOLDEN SYMBOL
100 YEARS OF GENERAL MOTORS 1908 - 2008
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HOME OF THE HOLDEN TURNS 50
40 YEARS OF THE HOLDEN MONARO
STATESMAN AND CAPRICE: FLAGSHIPS OF THE FLEET
THE HOLDEN UTE: GENUINE AUSSIE AUTOMOTIVE ICON HOLDEN TORANA: 1967 - 1980
HOLDEN CONCEPTS
HOLDEN EXPORTS
EXPORT TIMELINE 1954 - 2008
HOLDEN ENGINE MANUFACTURE 1940-2006
HOLDEN IN MOTORSPORT
PETER BROCK 1945 - 2006
LOCAL PRODUCTION SINCE 1948
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» 1940 Chevrolet Dealer convention at Fishermans Bend HQ
COUNTDOWN TO THE FIRST HOLDEN
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
COUNTDOWN TO
THE FIRST HOLDEN
One of Australia’s most trusted brands, the Holden name has been associated
with transport in this country for more than 150 years.
In 1856, when James A. Holden
established the J.A. Holden and
company saddlery and harness
manufacturing business in Adelaide,
South Australia, he began a ‘horses
to horsepower’ company saga that
gathered momentum as the nation
grew and today continues to accelerate.
The Holden brand has carried a special
resonance for successive generations
of Australians who continue to
consider it part of the cultural fabric
of their society. Possibly no other
automotive company in the world can
trace its name back so far and chart its
progress side by side with the history
of a country through more than 150
years of innovation and achievement.
For many people, the fundamentally
Australian character of the Holden
brand gives it a unique and
meaningful point of difference and
significant numbers follow the
company’s fortunes with an abiding
and genuine interest.
GM Holden takes a great deal of pride
in its heritage and in the strong bonds
of loyalty which have been forged
through its ability to understand
implicitly what it is Australians want
from their cars.
1852
1872
» A new partnership is formed: Holden
and Birks.
1875
» Holden and Birks is dissolved and J.A.
Holden and Co. re-established.
1879
» Seventeen year old James Alexander
Holden arrives in South Australia
from Staffordshire, England.
» Holden takes his 20 year-old son
Henry James into the business and
the name is changed again, this time
to J.A. Holden and Son.
1856
1885
» J. A. Holden sets up shop in
King William St, Adelaide, as a
leatherworker and saddlemaker.
» Henry Frost becomes a junior
partner in J.A. Holden and Son
and the company name changes
to Holden and Frost. It continues
in leatherwork and small scale
ironmongery, then graduates to
repairing and eventually building
horse drawn carriages and coaches.
1865
» Business booms for J.A. Holden and
Company and the firm moves to
bigger premises.
» Employees assembled in Grenfell St, Adelaide.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
COUNTDOWN TO
THE FIRST HOLDEN
1886
» Germany’s Gottlieb Daimler and
Karl Benz, working independently,
produce what are now generally
recognised as the world’s first
motor cars.
1887
» James Alexander Holden dies aged
52. Henry Holden becomes the
senior partner in Holden and Frost.
1899
» The Boer War starts. Troops from
Australian states are sent, with
some of their gear supplied by
Holden and Frost.
1902
» In the small town of Kadina, South
Australia, the great grandfather
of current Holden dealer David
Rosewarne places an advertisement
in the local newspaper to say he
is now an agent for Oldsmobile.
Today there is a good argument to
support Rosewarne’s claim to be
world’s longest-serving General
Motors dealer, still selling GM
vehicles from the same site under
the same company name.
1903/04
» The first Cadillacs and Vauxhalls hit
Australian roads.
1905
» A third-generation Holden, Henry’s
son Edward Wheewall Holden, joins
Holden and Frost.
1906
» The first Buicks begin to arrive
in Australia.
1908
» Holden and Frost engages in minor
repairs to car upholstery and is
soon manufacturing hoods and
side curtains.
» In the USA, William (Billy)
Durant brought Oldsmobile and
Buick together to form General
Motors Company.
1909
» Henry Frost died.
» Cadillac and Oakland marques
joined General Motors.
1911
» The GM Export Company is formed.
1912
» Australian branch of GM Export
Company opens in Sydney. Models
imported under the GM Export
banner are Oakland and Buick.
Oldsmobile follows in 1917; Cadillac,
GMC and Chevrolet in 1918.
» Adelaide HMBB plant, mid 1920s
» 1929 Buick Advertisement
» GMA Melbourne head office 1927
» The first Holden lion badge - 1928
1913
1918
1923
1926
» Holden and Frost begins production of
complete motorcycle sidecar bodies.
» Holden’s Motor Body Builders
(HMBB) is set up as a division of
Holden and Frost. It produces 587
bodies in its first full year.
» Holden, now with a production
line in operation, builds 12,771
car bodies. As the USA produces a
constant string of new car designs
and marques, Holden’s Motor Body
Builders responds with a vast array
of suitable body styles.
» Now sole local body supplier for
GM vehicles, Holden continues
production for other carmakers at
it’s original King William St plant,
which is further extended.
1914
» Holden and Frost produces its first
complete custom made car body,
using laborious carriage building
techniques.
1917
» The Australian Federal Government’s
wartime trade restrictions (decreeing
that only one complete car can be
imported for every three chassis)
leads to the decision by Holden
and Frost to commence large scale
production of car bodies.
» Holden and Frost buys another
Adelaide motor body builder, F.T. Hack
Ltd, to increase its production facilities.
The enlarged company produces a
total of 99 car bodies during 1917,
mainly for Dodge and Buick chassis.
1919
» Holden’s Motor Body Builders
becomes a registered company.
Business takes off rapidly and HMBB
begins to revolutionise the industry
with state of the art production
machinery and designs which
take a minimum of hand finishing.
Innovative shipping techniques
mean Holden’s bodies are pricecompetitive across the country.
» Almost 1600 bodies are produced and
fitted to a wide variety of marques.
1920
» What promises to be a boom decade
begins as Holden earns an impressive
reputation and a growing order bank.
» A site at Woodville, South Australia,
is purchased for the construction of
a massive new plant.
1924
» Holden’s new Woodville plant is
opened, featuring the country’s most
modern production line. GM strikes
a contract with Holden ensuring
that Woodville will manufacture
bodies only for GM vehicles. The deal
allows HMBB to import blueprints of
forthcoming GM models and to have
the bodies ready by the time the new
chassis hit Australian shores.
» Holden produces 65 body styles
during the year and has a total
output of 22,150 units, representing
about half of local body production.
1925
» Holden produces 34,309 car bodies,
including the first closed body types.
Its body building operation is now
the biggest outside North America
and continental Europe, with 16
hectares of factory floor and a 2600strong workforce. HMBB also turns
out railway carriages, bus and tram
bodies and other items.
» General Motors Australia (GMA) is
formed and assembly plants are built
in all five mainland state capitals
to meet booming demand for its
products, purchasing bodies from
Holden and tyres, paint, glass, springs,
leather, batteries, metal hardware and
many more components from some
95 Australian supplier companies.
» Models produced include Oakland
(which became Pontiac in 1932),
Cadillac, Buick, Oldsmobile, ScrippsBooth and Chevrolet. (Chevrolet and
Pontiac models were sold in Australia
until 1968.)
» The year is Holden’s best to date for
car body production, with 36,171
units built.
1928
» Holden’s famous ‘lion and stone’
symbol is first used.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
COUNTDOWN TO
THE FIRST HOLDEN
» GMH top sellers 1932/33 (l-r):Chevrolet sedan, Buick Tourer, Vauxhall sedan
1930
» The full force of the worldwide
depression hits Australia and Holden,
which has just completed a major
expansion, is caught off guard.
1931
» As the economic situation continues
to deteriorate, Holden’s Motor Body
Builders is closed for much of the
year. The company fills just 1651 car
body orders, compared with more
than 36,000 five years earlier.
» To protect its manufacturing
capacity, General Motors puts
together a £1,111,600 rescue
package that merges General Motors
Australia with Holden Motor Body
Builders to form General MotorsHolden’s Limited (GMH), presided
over by Chairman Sir Edward Holden.
» GMH begins an expanding program
to use more and more locally bought
materials, parts and components for
the Vauxhall and Bedford chassis
imported from England and for the
American and Canadian chassis
of Cadillac, Buick, Oldsmobile and
Pontiac; Chevrolet cars and GMC and
Maple Leaf trucks.
1932
» Australia’s total vehicle sales
continue to drop. From a 1928 high
of 88,815 units, they barely top
14,000. Holden’s sales for the same
period drop nearly 90 per cent, from
31,543 (for GMA) to 3674 for the
new combined company.
1934
» GM Corporation troubleshooter,
Englishman Laurence Hartnett, is
sent to Australia. Holden produces
its first coupe utility.
1935
1938
1940
1943/44
» The first ‘All Enclosed Coupe’
body - ‘The Sloper’- is produced for
Oldsmobile, Pontiac and Chevrolet
chassis. A unique Australian design,
it is the forerunner of the hatchback.
» Holden installs a 1000 ton press, the
largest in the country, at Woodville,
to further its lead in the all-steel
body era.
» All Holden factories are now working
for the war effort. Their output
includes aeroplane frames, bomb
cases, anti-tank guns, machine guns,
armoured cars, anti-aircraft guns, gun
carriages and magazines, work boats,
dinghies, machine tools, gas masks,
bridging pontoons, semi-trailers,
troop carriers and other military
hardware. A new foundry and engine
plant, considered crucial to the war
effort, is built at Fishermans Bend.
» With the end of the war anticipated
and military contracts winding down,
Holden revives its earlier plan to build
the first all-Australian car. The first
‘Project 2000’ prototype is completed
using Willys mechanical components.
» Holden builds its first all-steel bodies
(for Plymouth chassis), beating GM
in the USA by a full year.
» Holden buys 50 acres of land at
Fishermans Bend, near the Port
of Melbourne, Victoria, to build a
head office, assembly plant and
warehouse to service Victorian and
Tasmanian operations.
1936
» The first completed cars came
off the Fishermans Bend lines in
September.
» Holden executives start discussing
the manufacture of a complete car
within Australia.
1939
» Holden builds its first unitary
construction car, a Vauxhall 14 J
Type, and intensifies its investigation
into building an Australian car.
» The advent of war in Europe and
Australia’s commitment to support
Britain and her allies puts Holden’s
plan for an Australian car on
indefinite hold.
» Within weeks of Prime Minister
Menzies’ announcement that
Australia was at war with
Germany, Holden fills an order
for 50 Chevrolet ambulances.
1942
» Since the start of WW II, Holden
has become the first company to
mass-produce internal combustion
engines in Australia, producing
the Gypsy Major aeroplane engine,
the Gray Marine engine and a four
cylinder radial torpedo engine.
» Holden responds to a Federal
Government request for
submissions from companies
interested in an Australian-made
car project and undertakes to carry
it out, without subsidy or assistance,
with funds raised in Australia.
1945
» Holden emerges from WW II with
a full scale foundry and the ability
to make engine blocks and other
mechanical components in-house.
» Design work on a car based on a 1930s
GM concept prototype, begins in
Detroit. Preparations for manufacture
» WWII anti-tank gun assembly
at Fishermans Bend include expansion
of existing operations and the addition
of plant to manufacture engines
and components.
1946
» Holden recommences car production
with Vauxhall assembly and before
year’s end, Chevrolets, Buicks and
Pontiacs come on stream.
» A working prototype of Holden’s
preferred Project 2200 body design,
which aims at simplicity in tooling
and construction, is completed. This
design is based on a styling mock-up
completed in 1945.
» Holden engineers are sent to GM
headquarters in Detroit, Michigan,
with their styling models, drawings
and engineering ideas. They start
work on the US design proposal and
receive instruction on setting up the
manufacturing operation.
» Holden employees get a sneak preview
» The joint team in Detroit produces
three handmade working prototypes.
The three cars are shipped to
Fishermans Bend, accompanied by
the Australian arm of the design
team and US technicians.
1947
» The Detroit built Holden prototypes
are extensively tested on rough dirt
roads outside Melbourne. Steering
and suspension are among the many
components modified as a result.
1948
» Plans are laid for series production
of the Holden and for an official
public launch by the Prime Minister
in November.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
SHE’S A BEAUTY!
Sixty years ago – on 29 November 1948 – Australia’s Own Car made its first appearance at a
meticulously planned launch held at General Motors-Holden’s Fishermans Bend headquarters.
National public interest in the release
of ‘the car made in Australia, for
Australia’ was running at fever pitch
– so much so that GMH dealers held
more than 18,000 advance orders,
sight unseen.
» Assembling the 48-215
More than 1000 VIP guests attended
the announcement ceremony and the
proceedings, including the words of J.B.
Chifley, Prime Minister, were broadcast
by 44 radio stations nationwide.
The Melbourne Herald that day
described the Holden’s debut as
“ A Hollywood-style premiere,
complete with distinguished guests
and newsreel cameras whirring …”
Summing up, the Melbourne
Argus reported:
“…it was a great and comforting party.
Here was the work of thousands of
good Australians being presented by
those who made the work possible. Here
employer and employee were one in
pride and possession.”
Launch celebrations continued
nationwide as GMH operations in
Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth
spared no expense to host VIP invitees,
staff and their families and dealer
representatives at a series
of ceremonies.
Thousands of Australians got to take
their first good look at the Holden
at dealer previews, many of them
remarkably large-scale, held all over
the country. At the same time, a fleet
of demonstration Holdens toured
rural areas in each state, stopping at
every town with a GMH dealer. By
Christmas 1948 the good word had
spread far and wide.
Only 163 Holdens were completed
in 1948 and while more than 7,000
were built in 1949, supply went
nowhere near satisfying demand.
The waiting list extended over several
years. Australians had taken the 48215, later nicknamed the FX, to their
hearts, and with the release of the
evolutionary FJ Holden in 1953, the
love affair deepened.
» A famously enduring Australian
historical image. Prime Minister Ben
Chifley inspects the first Holden and
tells reporters “She’s a beauty!”
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
GM HOLDEN TODAY
Today Holden employs more than 7000 people Australia-wide. It continues to evolve from a
domestic manufacturer into an internationally competitive exporter of vehicles, engines and
automotive expertise to diverse markets.
Holden’s major operating facilities
are located at Fishermans Bend
(technical centre, administration
and engine manufacturing plants),
Dandenong (spare parts operation)
and Lang Lang (automotive proving
ground) in Victoria; as well as
Elizabeth (vehicle manufacturing
plant) in South Australia.
Holden headquarters also houses
the GM Premium Brands Division,
managing Saab Australia and
HUMMER (GM) Australia. GM’s
flagship Cadillac brand will soon join
the portfolio.
» Holden HQ in 1954, celebrating Queen
Elizabeth’s Australian visit
Change is the only constant in the
global automotive industry and
Holden has demonstrated great
tenacity and flexibility to not only
stay in the game but to become
an increasingly agile and effective
participant.
Since 1948, GM Holden has notched
up close to 7 million vehicle sales.
In managing the country’s largest
automotive export program, Holden
has also sent more than 780,000
vehicles around the world in five
decades and more than four million
export engines in 27 years.
At the same time as Holden pays
tribute to its rich past and to its
uniquely Australian spirit, it is
passionately engaged in charting a
future course that will see this spirit
live on in an ever-changing range
of vehicles, exemplified by the VE
Commodore and the WM Caprice
and Statesman, that are making their
mark across the GM world.
The comprehensive and highly
competitive Holden model range
includes Caprice, Statesman, Calais,
Berlina, Commodore, Sportwagon,
Captiva, Epica, Astra, Viva, Barina, Ute,
Colorado and Combo.
» Holden HQ - Fishermans Bend, Victoria, opened 2005
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» Front cover of original 48-215 brochure
FAMILY HOLDENS THROUGH THE YEARS
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1948 48-215 HOLDEN
A real sense of excitement and national pride accompanied the release of “the car made in
Australia, for Australia” – but nobody guessed what a runaway success this plain and practical
six-cylinder sedan would prove to be.
As the waiting list stretched through
1949 and beyond, some black
marketeers sold their places in the
queue for £100 or more and GMH
was moved to publish a booklet of
testimonials entitled Holden Owners
Give Reasons Why Holden is Worth
Waiting For.
Designated 48-215 but simply known
as ‘the Holden’ (later commonly called
the FX), the four door, six seater was
adapted from a GM American design
and built almost entirely locally.
It featured Aerobilt construction,
combining body and chassis into one
all-steel unit, and weighed less than
one tonne.
The Holden was powered by a torquey
2.15 litre six cylinder engine chosen
for its efficiency and durability.
It offered exceptional performance for
a low-cost family car. With a top speed
of more than 130km/h it could cruise
all day at 105km/h, take steep hills in
its top-gear stride and typically return
30 miles per gallon (9.4l/100km) - a
staggering result for such a lively
performer and welcome in an era that
encompassed petrol rationing.
The robust suspension coped well
with rough road conditions and dust
sealing was considered exceptional.
The 45 kW Grey engine, named for
the colour of its painted block, proved
a remarkably reliable unit and within
a few years the Holden had earned a
first class reputation for dependability
and ease of servicing.
The Holden was one of the first new
cars to be built anywhere in the world
following WWII.
It won market leadership for GMH
by 1951, when PVC augmented the
choice of leather or woollen fabric
seat trim and the 50/2106 Holden
utility made its debut.
Targeting taxi and fleet markets,
the Holden Business sedan launched
in 1953.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: November
POPULAR SONGS:
You Go to My Head (Ted Heath);
Woody Woodpecker (George Tibbles
and Ramsey Idriss); Love That Boy
(Dinah Shore); Don’t Be So Mean
to Me Baby (Peggy Lee); Be a Clown
(Gene Kelly, Judy Garland).
POPULAR FILMS:
Mr Blandings Builds His Dream
Home (Cary Grant, Myrna Loy);
Sahara (Humphrey Bogart);
Gentleman’s Agreement (Gregory
Peck, Celeste Holm); The Two Mrs
Carrolls (Humphrey Bogart, Barbara
Stanwyck); Sorry, Wrong Number
(Barbara Stanwyck).
1948 48-215 HOLDEN DATA
ENGINE: 2.15-litre six-cylinder.
TRANSMISSION: Three-speed
manual gearbox.
MODELS: Sedan, Business sedan
and utility.
PRICE WHEN NEW (INCL S/TAX):
$1466/£733.
DIMENSIONS (BASIC SEDAN):
Length: 4370 mm; Wheelbase: 2616
mm; Width: 1702 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Chrome grille with
vertical slats; the word ‘Holden’ across
centre front of bonnet and across
boot; split two piece windscreen; no
front or rear turn indicators and one
centrally mounted rear stop light with
body coloured surround.
TOTAL NUMBER BUILT: 120,402.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1948
» A modest total of 112 examples of the first 48-215 Holden car rolls off
Holden’s Fishermans Bend production line by year’s end. Thousands of orders
are taken.
1949
» The demand for Holden cars astounds everybody. The company advertises that
the ‘Holden is worth waiting for’ and makes every effort to increase production
capacity as quickly as possible.
» Holden continues to import chassis and components to assemble British and
US cars and trucks.
» “You will find the Holden compares favorably in leg room, seating width
and head room with even the largest sedans.” (original brochure)
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1953 FJ HOLDEN
A dinky-di Australian icon and perhaps the most fondly regarded of all early Holdens, the FJ was the
first car that many ordinary Australians had ever owned. It sold in unprecedented numbers and offered
an equally unprecedented degree of mobility, freedom and privacy.
Essentially a face-lifted version of its
predecessor, its main distinguishing
features were a big, bold, twin-port
horizontal chrome grille and torpedostyle tail light. It shared the same
powertrain, with some mechanical
refinements. The accessory list was
expanded and choice of colours lifted
to twelve.
Good ground clearance, ride, rugged
drivetrain, energetic performance,
comfortable seating for six, low
maintenance, fuel economy and
unbeatable value for money remained
major selling points.
In tune with the times, which saw
postwar austerity overtaken by the
growth of the consumer society, the FJ
introduced the first deluxe Holden in
the Special, which added a pampering
touch to the brand’s straightforward
value for money virtues.
The Special sported more bright metal
body decoration, including tiny tail
fins with built-in reflectors, different
hubcaps and bumpers. It offered
leather trim, armrests, cigarette
lighter, rear passenger assist straps,
chrome window winders and gee whiz
two-tone colour combinations. “From
every angle,” read the sales brochure,
“Holden Special is a graceful beauty.”
Splashed with golden wattle, the
brochure also extolled the virtues of
the Standard model, praised for its
roominess and family-sized luggage
compartment. The Business sedan
was aimed at the commercial market
and ‘specially equipped to meet the
particular needs of business and
country users whose vehicles are
engaged in heavy work or are located
in arduous country.’
MONTH OF LAUNCH: October
The first Holden Panel Van, based on
the utility, with an elongated roof and
an upper tailgate, made its debut in
December 1953.
POPULAR SONGS:
The 48–215 and FJ had a big
impact on the racetrack, their low
weight making them the favoured
competition Holdens long after they
had been superseded. Tweaked by
race mechanics and driven with
bravado, they could hit almost 200
km/h on the fastest circuits.
Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams
(Frankie Laine); If I Love You a
Mountain (Jane Froman); I Love Louisa
(Fred Astaire); Some Enchanted
Evening (from ‘South Pacific’).
POPULAR FILMS:
Quo Vadis (Robert Taylor, Deborah
Kerr); The Desert Rats (‘The film all
Australians must see’ starring Chips
Rafferty, Richard Burton, James
Mason); Stalag 17 (William Holden,
Otto Preminger); Shane (Alan Ladd);
Hans Christian Andersen (Danny Kaye).
1953 FJ HOLDEN DATA
ENGINE: 2.15 litre six-cylinder.
manual gearbox.
MODELS: Standard sedan, Business
sedan, Special sedan, panel van
and utility.
$2046/£1023 (Standard sedan).
mm; Width: 1702 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Similar body to
48–215 but with open grille with thick
horizontal chrome bar; Holden badge
mounted on front centre of bonnet;
centrally mounted rear stop light has
chrome surround.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1956 FE HOLDEN
By the mid–1950s, the Holden was well and truly established as market leader but the design was
starting to look dated. In response, the FE introduced a more modern, Australian-designed body.
It was bigger, roomier and heavier,
with a longer wheelbase and wider
track. Among the most stand-out
features were a one piece curved
windscreen and a larger rear window
which together contributed to a 40
per cent improvement in visibility.
A lower bonnet, boot and beltline
complemented the new look,
distinguished by rear fenders that
were integral with the body and flush
with the outer panel of the rear doors.
The totally re-designed interior had
a new dashboard with central radio
speaker grille, updated, relocated
instruments and controls, a full circle
horn ring on the steering wheel, a
larger, lockable glovebox, wider seating
and improved sound insulation.
gain was achieved by an increase in
compression ratio (to 6.8:1), and the
fitment of stiffened pistons heads and
larger valves. An large, oil-bath type air
filter was now standard equipment.
Blinkers were standard equipment
on Specials and reversing lights,
windscreen washers and demister
appeared on the accessories list.
A new 12 volt electrical system and
up-rated generator replaced the six
volt 48-215/FJ system. A hydraulically
operated clutch was introduced and
the braking system upgraded.
Under the bonnet, now mounted
on spring-loaded hinges instead of
a support rod, there was a slightly
more powerful (53 kW) version of the
well-proven Grey engine. This power
Chassis dynamics improved with the
addition of a new design, fully sealed
recirculating ball steering gear with a
new linkage layout and a front stabiliser
bar. Smaller road wheels and a slightly
wider track contributed to improved
handling and contemporary road
testers noted a marked improvement in
the quality of fit and finish. Many new
exterior colour schemes were available.
The FE series also introduced the first
Holden station sedan, launched early
in 1957, and the addition of Standard
and Special variants took the number
of distinct models in the Holden range
to seven.
Sales figures went from strength
to strength.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: July
POPULAR FILMS:
1956 FE HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
Carousel (Gordon MacRae, Shirley
Jones); The Dambusters (Richard Todd,
Michael Redgrave); We’re No Angels
(Humphrey Bogart); The Tender Trap
(Frank Sinatra, Debbie Reynolds);
The Man with the Golden Arm (Frank
Sinatra); A Town Like Alice (Peter Finch).
ENGINE: 2.15 litre six cylinder.
Heartbreak Hotel (Elvis Presley);
The Great Pretender (The Platters);
Love and Marriage (Frank Sinatra);
Rock Island Line (Lonnie Donegan);
Rock and Roll Waltz (Kay Starr).
manual gearbox.
MODELS: Standard sedan, Special
sedan, Business sedan, Standard
station wagon, Special station wagon,
panel van and utility.
mm; Width: 1701 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: New body with
hatched grille and hooded headlights;
Holden badge mounted front centre
of bonnet; model name on rear
quarter panel; one piece windscreen;
wraparound front and rear bumpers.
30
31
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1958 FC HOLDEN
The FC replaced the FE at a time when Holden sales figures reached astonishing heights.
In a booming market Holden’s share hit 50.3 per cent and it outsold the nearest competitor
by two to one.
The mildly face-lifted FC continued
the practice of introducing an allnew model then following with an
improved version.
All seven models were launched
simultaneously. While sharing the
same body sheet metal as FE, they
sported new ornamentation, a
freshened interior and mechanical
improvements which improved
driveability and refinement.
The FC is identified among other
exterior details by chrome H-O-LD-E-N letters above a re-designed
radiator grille which incorporated
parking lights (all) and blinkers
(Special models) on its wide lower
bar. All sedans had a new boot lid
emblem and chrome fins which
made for a less rounded appearance.
Specials had extra brightwork on
side panels, pointed up by smart
two-tone paint treatments.
Inside, seat and door trims were
improved, there was a vertical bar
radio speaker grille, a half-circle
horn ring improved instrument
readability, minor controls had black
bezel surrounds.
All-transistor radios were introduced
in 1959.
Engine modifications to cylinder
head combustion chambers lifted
the compression ratio. Power
output remained the same and
torque was lifted. Minor upgrades
to various components, including
the suspension, brakes, gear change
linkages and steering box, were
made during the FC’s model life.
Performance, ruggedness and
excellent value for money were still
major drawcards.
Wheels magazine said of the FC:
“ Its designers have steered an
excellent course through the paths
of compromise required by modern
practices. The Holden has far fewer
faults than many cars with higher price
tags and imposing overseas origins ”.
The total number of FCs produced
remained a record until the advent of
the EH. Before the FC bowed out, the
500,000th Holden had been produced
and the 10,000th exported.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: May
POPULAR FILMS:
1958 FC HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
Sayonara (Marlon Brando, Red
Buttons); Fantasia (revival of
animation classic); Three Faces of
Eve (Joanne Woodward); Peyton
Place (Lana Turner, Hope Lange);
The Ten Commandments (Charlton
Heston, Yul Brynner); And God
Created Woman (Brigitte Bardot);
Doctor at Large (Dirk Bogarde, James
Robertson Justice); Bridge on the
River Kwai (Alec Guinness).
All I Have to Do Is Dream (Everly
Brothers); Twilight Time (The Platters);
Who’s Sorry Now? (Connie Francis);
He’s Got the Whole World in His
Hands (Laurie London); Maybe Baby
(The Crickets); Tequila (The Champs).
manual gearbox.
sedan, Business sedan, Standard
mm; Width: 1702 mm.
FE but with front turn indicators
incorporated into bottom edge of
wider hatched grille.
32
33
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» 1951 - first Holden Ute
» 1953 FJ - first panel van
» 1954 - first exports to NZ
1950
1953
1957
» Production is lifted to 80 Holdens a day.
» Holden produces its first panel van, based on the FJ sedan. A station wagon
version reaches the prototype stage but production does not proceed.
» The first Holden station wagon is produced and the Woodville (SA) plant builds
its millionth car body.
1954
» 4500 Holdens are exported.
1951
» The first Holdens are exported to New Zealand.
1958
» All Holden plants expand and 60 hectares of land are purchased at Dandenong,
Victoria, for future development.
1955
» Work begins on a four-lane banked circular test track at Lang Lang and
foundations for a new plant are laid at Elizabeth (SA).
» The number of Holden employees exceeds 10,000 and more than $43 million is
paid to outside suppliers for materials, components and services.
» Holden production reaches 100 units a day and production (since 1948) passes
50,000.
» More expansion plans are implemented, including a plant at Dandenong to build
the forthcoming FE model, lifting annual production capacity to 72,000 units.
» Holden produces its first coupe utility.
» Land is purchased at Lang Lang, 90 kilometres from Melbourne, to establish
Australia’s first automotive proving ground.
1952
1956
» Demand for Holden cars continues and plans are laid for further expansion of
production facilities.
» The 250,000th Holden, an FJ, is built.
» Annual sales 32,000.
» The Dandenong plant opens. Further expansion takes place to lift production
to 100,000 Holdens a year.
» The first CKD (completely knocked down) Holden packs are shipped to New
Zealand for local assembly.
» Leo Geoghegan wins the Sedan and Sports Car events at the Bathurst Easter
race meeting in a Holden 48-215.
» Annual sales exceed 100,000, total number of Holdens produced reaches
500,000 and export territories number 27.
1959
» Body hardware division at Elizabeth plant commences operation.
» Assembly of Holden commercial vehicles begins overseas.
34
35
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1960 FB HOLDEN
In the 1950s everything from the US was considered a cut above. A new Holden for the new
decade, the very American-looking FB reflected this trend.
Mechanically, the new model was
a further refinement of the FE/FC
but its appearance was significantly
changed with a wraparound
windscreen, sloping rear glass, bigfinned tail light clusters, hooded
headlight surrounds, a lower bonnet
line and finned rear guards.
A more efficient interior layout
increased usable room. The wider
seats had better padding, the dash
fascia, instruments and deeply dished
steering wheel were all-new and the
ventilation system was improved.
With FB, body length increased by
140 mm, although the wheelbase
remained the same. The Grey engine
was slightly enlarged to produce 56
kW, but due to the car’s marginally
increased weight, performance
remained unchanged.
It incorporated upgraded brakes,
wider rear leaf springs, changes to
spring and shock rates and a 20 per
cent reduction in clutch pedal effort.
The Business sedan was dropped with
the FB Series and a Special station
sedan included in the range, along
with a high-roof panel van. Specials
had bright moulding which defined
coloured side flashes and C pillars;
chromed vertical grille bars, headlight
and tail light surrounds.
The FB was the first Holden with
acrylic paint – its ‘Magic Mirror
Finish’ superseded the original Duco
in June 1960.
There was no price increase over the FC
and Holden continued to maintain a 50
per cent share of the Australian market.
This brilliant success had not escaped
the attention of competitors, which at
that stage were mostly importing or
locally assembling European cars.
At the time the FB was launched, Ford
Australia was known to be preparing
for the full scale manufacture of the
US Falcon and Chrysler Australia
was also looking to the USA for a
medium-priced family car. The FB was
also significant in that it was the first
model for which left hand drive export
versions were produced.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: January
POPULAR FILMS:
1960 FB HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
North By North West (Cary Grant,
Eva Marie Saint); Pillow Talk (Rock
Hudson, Doris Day); Summer Of The
Seventeenth Doll (Ernest Borgnine,
John Mills); Anatomy of a Murder
(James Stewart, Lee Remick); Carry On
Teacher (The Carry On Gang).
She’s My Baby (Johnny O’Keefe); High
Hopes (Frank Sinatra); Heartaches by
The Number (Guy Mitchell); Among
My Souvenirs (Connie Francis);
Running Bear (Johnny Preston);
El Paso (Marty Robbins).
manual gearbox.
sedan, Standard station wagon, Special
station wagon, panel van and utility.
mm; Width: 1703 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: New body panels
with integral fins on rear guards; lower
profile front grille with turn indicators
on each side; the word ‘Holden’ written
across front centre of bonnet.
36
37
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1961 EK HOLDEN
Introduction of the three-speed Hydra-matic provided the first taste of automatic motoring
for hundreds of thousands of Australians.
Essentially a minor facelift to
introduce Holden’s first automatic
transmission, the EK was otherwise
mechanically the same as the FB.
The three-speed Hydra-matic was a
fully imported unit manufactured in
the US by GM’s Detroit Transmission
Division and proven in many US and
UK vehicles. It was well suited to
mid-capacity engines and allowed
the auto Holden to maintain
respectable performance figures
although engine power was not
increased for the automatic versions.
Economy was also closer to the
manual than many expected.
transmission hump, minor carburettor
and distributor changes.
new bumper over-riders and reversing
lights were standard on auto models.
Column shift Hydra-matic was offered
at $238 (£119) as an option on Special
sedans and wagons but not available
on standard or commercial models.
Exterior differences were small. There
was a new ventilation intake forward of
the windscreen and badging included a
red lion emblem in the top grille bar, lion
emblems on the hub caps and H-O-L-DE-N letters on sedan boot lids.
Further EK refinements included
revised interior trim on Specials, an
electric wiper motor (replacing the
vacuum unit), an interior bonnet
release catch, new heating unit and
upgraded springs on commercial
models to increase carrying capacity.
According to Modern Motor magazine,
“ The Hydra-matic is the most efficient
automatic drive we’ve struck so far.
Hydra-matic is very, very sensitive to the
demands the driver makes on it.”
Among modifications for the auto
were a new tailshaft, enlarged
Side mouldings were changed to a
straight-through style and the rear
side colour flash was deleted. A redesigned grille featured wider-spaced
parking lights/flashers, there were
At this time Holden was using
4000 suppliers across Australia and
operating ten plants. The EK stayed in
production for just over a year.
POPULAR SONGS:
Runaway (Del Shannon); Running
Scared (Roy Orbison); Little Devil
(Neil Sedaka); A Scottish Soldier
(Andy Stewart); Theme from
‘Magnificent Seven’ (Al Caiola).
POPULAR FILMS:
Spartacus (Kirk Douglas); La Dolce Vita
(Marcello Mastroianni, Anita Ekberg);
Ben Hur (Charlton Heston); Cat on a
Hot Tin Roof (Elizabeth Taylor, Paul
Newman); The Millionairess (Sophia
Loren, Peter Sellers).
1961 EK HOLDEN DATA
TRANSMISSIONS: Three-speed manual
gearbox and three-speed Hydra-matic
automatic transmission.
sedan, Standard station wagon, Special
PRICES WHEN NEW (INCL S/TAX):
$2212/£1106 (Standard sedan),
$2576/£1288 (Special auto sedan).
mm; Width: 1703 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Similar body to FB but
with wider grille (with more vertical
slats) and front turn indicators included
in grille surround; additional front
badge mounted at the top of the grille.
38
39
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1962 EJ HOLDEN
First of the classic 60s Holden series, the EJ introduced a clean, streamlined new body style and the
name ‘Premier’, which would be identified with luxurious Holdens for close on two decades.
The lower profile look was highlighted
by a new curved windscreen, sloping
front pillars, a bonnet line that extended
across to the front guards and a squarer
rear end with a lower, flatter boot line
and small tail light clusters.
The EJ delivered more interior space
and better all-round visibility than
previous Holdens as well as the
traditional virtues of high ground
clearance and rugged reliability.
It was more thoroughly tested than
any previous Holden, retaining the FEEK powertrain and mechanicals with
efficiency improvements such as an
improved Hydra-matic transmission
and strengthened front suspension.
Safety features included front seat
belt anchorages on all models, sloping
dash fascia with full width foam
crashpad and a major upgrade to Duo
Servo brakes, which reduced stopping
distances and replaced the units used
since 1948.
The first Holden Premier was quite
a step up from the Special model. It
enticed buyers with leather-trimmed
bucket seats, a fold-down centre
armrest in the rear seat, standard
Warmaride heater/demister, a white
steering wheel, wool carpet, dual
horns, two speed electric wipers and
windscreen washers, handbrake
warning light, glove box and boot
lights, day/night interior mirror and
other desirable features.
The EJ Premier was the first Holden
to offer a metallic paint finish and
automatic transmission as standard.
It was further distinguished by
whitewall tyres, chromed steel wheel
trims, rear bumper over-riders and
extra body ornamentation, including
red and gold badging front and rear.
All models had sealed beam
headlights and turn indicators as
standard and the spare tyre was
mounted flat under the boot floor.
Standard and commercial variants
offered the choice of automatic
transmission for the first time.
The EJ production run included the
millionth Holden.
POPULAR FILMS:
1962 EJ HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
El Cid (Charlton Heston, Sophia Loren);
Two Women (Sophia Loren); Jules et
Jim (Jeanne Moreau, Oskar Werner);
The Devil at Four O’Clock (Spencer
Tracy, Frank Sinatra); West Side Story
(Richard Beymer, Natalie Wood);
The Parent Trap (Hayley Mills);
The Alamo (John Wayne).
Do You Want to Dance? (Cliff Richard
and The Shadows); The Young Ones
(Cliff Richard and The Shadows);
Limbo Rock (The Champs); Ahab The
Arab (Ray Stevens); Breaking Up Is
Hard to Do (Neil Sedaka).
sedan, Premier sedan, Standard
mm; Width: 1727 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: New lower body
with slim horizontally slatted grille
running between the headlights;
badge mounted front centre of bonnet
with the word ‘Holden’ spelt out
underneath along full width of grille.
40
41
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1963 EH HOLDEN
Heralded as the most dramatic new model since the 48-215, the hugely popular EH became
the fastest-selling Australian car ever. During just 18 months of manufacture, buyers
snapped up a record 256,959 units.
Despite the fact that the EH boasted
a newer and much more powerful
engine and clever styling changes, it
was priced at the same level as the EJ.
A wave of public interest before
its release created unprecedented
demand and marked a resurgence
of the locally-built product amid
the rising popularity of cheaper
Japanese imports.
The fuel-efficient Red engine was
available in two versions. It offered
33 per cent more power (74.5 kW)
in standard 149 configuration and
53 per cent more power (85.7kW)
in 179 form. The bigger 179 came
standard in the top-end Premier and
limited edition S4 sports models.
The engines featured seven-bearing
crankshafts, hydraulic valve lifters,
external oil pump and filter and upto-date piston and head design.
The Red engines were designed to
be smoother, longer lasting, more
economical and easier to service.
They proved ideal for towing, an
increasingly popular pastime in the
60s, and were renowned for their
reliability and long lifespan.
‘Power Swept’ styling gave the car
neater, more modern lines with a
cleaner roofline, a longer look at the
rear with larger vertical tail lights for
sedans and wagons, a new sedan rear
window and bigger boot capacity.
The EH range offered 24 variants
across five models. A Premier
station wagon was offered and the
S4 sports model produced in small
numbers (120) for use in motor sport
combined the powerful 179 engine
with an upgraded three-speed
manual transmission, more robust
brakes with a power booster and a
larger fuel tank. Another EH series
first was the option of factory-fitted
power steering.
The EH owed much of its success to
its universal appeal. It was cheap,
practical, economical, relatively quick
and ideal for modification.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: August
1963 EH HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
ENGINES: 2.45 litre six-cylinder ‘149’
(a low-compression version of this
engine was also available) and 2.95litre six cylinder ‘179’.
Surf City (Jan and Dean); Danke
Schoen (Wayne Newton); Bombora
(The Atlantics); Hello Muddah, Hello
Faddah (Allan Sherman); Surfin’
Hootenanny (Al Casey).
POPULAR FILMS:
The L–Shaped Room (Leslie Caron); The
Birds (Rod Taylor, Tippi Hedren); Hud
(Paul Newman, Patricia Neal, Melvyn
Douglas); Exodus (Paul Newman).
sedan, S4 Special sedan, Premier
sedan, Standard station wagon,
Special station wagon, Premier station
wagon, panel van and utility.
mm; Width: 1727 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Similar body to EJ
but with squared rear guards and
roofline; grille split in centre by vertical
bar bearing Holden badge.
42
43
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1965 HD HOLDEN
With a completely new body which made it wider, longer and roomier than previous models,
the HD has been described as Holden’s first true six-seater sedan.
Apart from the substantial increases
in passenger and load space, the HD
offered higher equipment levels and
improved chassis systems. Selfadjusting brakes were fitted, a new
ball-joint front suspension replaced
the previous king-pin type and for the
first time disc brakes were offered as a
factory fitted option.
New styling with curved side
panels, wrap-around tail lights and
protruding front guard extensions
proved controversial and in later years
the HD would be probably the least
favorably remembered Holden.
However, early demand was
exceptionally high. During the first
few months, sales outstripped
those of the record-breaking EH and
Wheels magazine said:
“ A dash of Buick, a scoop of Pontiac,
just a whiff of Opel and lots of Holden.
1965’s HD Holden retains its Holden
character while getting a glamorous
new styling for the swinging sixties.”
Most interesting mechanical feature
was the more powerful ‘X2’ version
of the 179 engine. Optional on all
models, it developed 105 kW (19 kW
up on standard) by virtue of twin
Bendix-Stromberg carburettors, a
modified camshaft, new water-heated
alloy inlet manifold, new crankshaft
bearings, new air filter, modified
ignition advance and a sports exhaust.
On the transmission front, the
three-speed automatic transmission
was replaced by a smooth, reliable
Powerglide two-speed.
Inside, the HD had much wider seats,
a new dash fascia with two circular
instrument clusters and speaker and
demister outlets in the top face, a new
steering wheel and safety door locks.
With a choice of three engines,
manual or automatic transmission
across the board and an expanded
options list which included a snazzy
vinyl roof (Premier) in black or offwhite, the HD gave Holden buyers
their greatest choice yet.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: February
POPULAR FILMS:
1965 HD HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
The Pink Panther (Peter Sellers);
Flaming Star (Elvis Presley); It’s a Mad
Mad Mad Mad World (Milton Berle, Sid
Caesar); Becket (Peter O’Toole, Richard
Burton); The Endless Summer (surfing
documentary by Bruce Brown).
ENGINES: 2.45 litre six-cylinder ‘149’,
2.95 litre six-cylinder ‘179’ and 2.95
litre six-cylinder ‘X2’.
Under the Boardwalk (The Drifters);
Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey (Gerry and
The Pacemakers); You’ve Lost That
Lovin’ Feeling (Righteous Brothers); Go
Now (The Moody Blues); I’ll Never Find
Another You (The Seekers).
gearbox and two-speed Powerglide
sedan, Premier sedan, Standard station
wagon, Special station wagon, Premier
mm; Width: 1778 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: All-new body with
horizontally slatted grille split by
vertical bar bearing Holden badge;
protruding front quarter panels
extend past headlights and merge
with front bumper bar.
44
45
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1966 HR HOLDEN
When sales of the HD started to wane, Holden hit back hard with the HR. Although body
changes looked mild, they involved reworking the roofline and changing almost all the
exterior panels to give a sleeker, more modern profile.
Car buyers responded by making the
HR one of the biggest-selling Holdens
of all.
Performance was improved by virtue
of enlarged 161 and 186 versions
of the red engine with higher
compression ratios and many
minor improvements.
A twin carburettor X2 option available
on the 186 delivered 109 kW (145
bhp), making it the most powerful
Holden engine to date.
The HR sported a new grille with
relocated parking lights and squaredoff headlight surrounds. There were
‘tower-type’ vertical tail light clusters
and relocated pillars made a wider
rear window opening. Other changes
included a slightly wider track, a lower
look due to improved springing and
lower profile tyres. There were plusher
cabin trimmings, including silver trim
inserts on the dash and a ‘timber tone’
woodgrain finish for Premier. Options
included power steering and frontwheel disc brakes.
Six months after launch, all HRs
were given a safety upgrade with
the standard addition of front seat
belts, windscreen washers, reversing
lights, padded sunvisors and a
shatterproof interior mirror. The
fitting of seat belts as standard was
the forerunner of many significant
safety-related features pioneered by
Holden in Australia.
From June 1967, a new ‘186S’ engine
became available as an option.
Boasting the same output as the X2
engine it replaced, this two-barrel
single carburettor engine delivered its
power more smoothly and featured
Holden’s first automatic choke.
Driveline firsts for the HR were an
optional limited slip differential and
an all-synchro floor shift four-speed
manual gearbox, offered as an $85
factory option.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: April
POPULAR SONGS:
These Boots Are Made for Walking
(Nancy Sinatra); Jake the Peg
(Rolf Harris); Groovy Kind of Love
(Mindbenders); Nowhere Man
(Beatles); Daydream (Lovin’ Spoonful).
POPULAR FILMS:
My Fair Lady (Rex Harrison, Audrey
Hepburn); The Greatest Story Ever
Told (Max Von Sydow, Charlton
Heston); Thunderball (Sean Connery);
The Great Race (Tony Curtis, Natalie
Wood); Zorba the Greek (Anthony
Quinn); The Sound Of Music (Julie
Andrews, Christopher Plummer.)
gearbox, four-speed manual gearbox
and two-speed Powerglide automatic
transmission.
1966 HR HOLDEN DATA
sedan, Premier sedan, Standard station
wagon, Special station wagon, Premier
ENGINES: 2.65 litre six-cylinder ‘161’
(a low-compression version of this
engine was also available), 3.05 litre sixcylinder ‘186’, 3.05 litre six-cylinder ‘X2’
and 3.05 litre six-cylinder ‘186S’.
$2167 (Standard sedan).
Length: 4600mm; Wheelbase: 2692
mm; Width: 1778 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Revised version of
HD body with turn signal lights set
within grille and squared-off front
guards; headlights have squarish
chrome surrounds and grille features
horizontal centre bar.
46
47
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1968 HK HOLDEN
The most ambitious all-new series to date brought a huge array of models and new mechanical
features including an imported V8 engine. It introduced the soon-to-be famous ‘Kingswood’
name for the volume-selling model.
Advertised as The New Generation
Holden, the ambitious HK series was
longer, lower, wider, roomier and
more rounded in appearance. It gave
buyers a seemingly endless choice
of options, ushering in an era of
personalised transport that continues
to this day.
The base model HK sedan was
called Belmont and the former
Special model was anointed the
Kingswood. The upmarket Premier,
which featured dual headlights and a
different roofline from lesser models,
was retained. The imported Chevrolet
307 small block V8 engine was
available right across the range and
proved an immediate success.
The two major model additions
in the Monaro sports coupe and
Brougham luxury variant (Holden’s
answer to the Ford Fairlane) were
launched in July 1968.
Based on the HK sedan and similar
in wheelbase and overall length, the
pillarless Monaro was the first local
vehicle of its type and won Holden a
legion of new fans.
Top of the three-model range was the
potent Monaro GTS 327, fitted with a
US-built, 5.3 litre V8, which went on to
take first, second and third placings in
the 1968 Bathurst classic.
An extended version of the Premier,
the Brougham offered V8 power,
Powerglide automatic transmission,
power steering and the plushest
Holden interior yet.
With the HK, Holden offered a
larger choice of models, engines,
transmissions and options than
had previously been seen in a
mass-produced Australian car.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: January
Safety features fitted to all models
included an energy-absorbing
steering column (another local first)
and a dual circuit braking system.
POPULAR SONGS:
Hello, Goodbye (Beatles); Sadie, the
Cleaning Lady (Johnny Farnham);
Daydream Believer (The Monkees);
Chain of Fools (Aretha Franklin);
The Rain, the Park and Other Things
(The Cowsills).
POPULAR FILMS:
Barefoot in the Park (Robert Redford,
Jane Fonda); You Only Live Twice (Sean
Connery); Camelot (Richard Harris,
Vanessa Redgrave); They’re a Weird
Mob (Walter Chiari, Chips Rafferty);
Dr Dolittle (Rex Harrison); Dr Zhivago
(Omar Sharif, Julie Christie).
1968 HK HOLDEN DATA
3.05 litre six-cylinder ‘186’, 3.05 litre
six-cylinder ‘186S’, 5 litre V8 ‘307’ &
5.3 litre V8 ‘327’.
transmission.
MODELS: Belmont sedan, Belmont
station wagon, Belmont panel van,
Belmont utility, Kingswood sedan,
Kingswood station wagon, Kingswood
utility, Premier sedan, Premier station
wagon, Brougham sedan, Monaro
coupe, Monaro GTS coupe and
Monaro GTS 327 coupe.
$2215 (Belmont six-cylinder sedan),
$3021 (Premier six-cylinder wagon),
$2575 (base Monaro six-cylinder);
$3790 (Monaro V8 GTS 327).
mm; Width: 1816 mm.
pronounced flaring above the wheel
arches; HR-style grille (without inset
turn signal lights) featuring the word
‘Holden’ written in the lower kerbside
corner; wraparound front turn
indicators mounted under the bumper.
48
49
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1969 HT HOLDEN
With an advertised 65 major improvements, this face-lifted series introduced a production
version of the Aussie V8, which had earlier been exhibited in the spectacular Holden Hurricane
experimental car.
The locally designed and built V8 came
in two versions: the ‘253’ (4.2 litre) and
‘308’ (5 litre). The ‘308’ was standard
on the stretched Brougham but
initially the imported ‘307’ was fitted
to other 5 litre HT models.
Both versions of the Aussie V8 were
praised for their low overall weight,
compactness and smoothness and
demand was strong.
Although the HT styling changes were
minor, they resulted in a cleanerlooking design. The model brought
wraparound rear light clusters and
redesigned grilles (different versions
for different models) made use of new
ABS plastic. There were also flatter
rear flanks, which eliminated the hip
at the rear roof pillar and resulted in a
slightly wider back window.
A new windscreen wiper system with
an articulated wiper blade provided
greater visibility and all other safety
features introduced with the HK,
including the telescopic steering
column and dual master brake system,
were carried over.
Other features included an increase
in track width, upgraded suspension
with rubber bushing improving ride
quality and noise insulation, a wider
track, standard three-speed allsynchromesh manual gearbox and a
revised instrument panel layout.
The HT model choice included
sedans, wagons, Monaro coupes, the
Brougham luxury saloon, plus utility
and panel van versions. Demand for
the Monaro continued to run well
ahead of supply. In August 1969, the
extremely potent 5.74 litre Chevrolet
‘350’ V8 was offered with the limitedbuild ‘Bathurst Pack’ Monaro GTS.
A long list of options gave HT buyers
a choice of five engines and four
gearboxes, a limited-slip differential,
‘Superlift’ shock absorbers, front-wheel
disc brakes, power steering, power
windows, bucket seats, reclining seats,
refrigerated air-conditioning, ‘rally’
wheels and a vinyl roof.
HT also introduced Holden’s first
marketing model - a limited edition
White Hot 253 V8 Kingswood.
POPULAR SONGS:
Where Do You Go To, My Lovely?
(Peter Sarstedt); Get Back (Beatles);
Pinball Wizard (The Who); The Real
Thing (Russell Morris); Bad Moon
Rising (Creedence Clearwater Revival);
The Boxer (Simon and Garfunkel).
POPULAR FILMS:
Oliver! (Ron Moody, Jack Wild, Mark
Lester); Funny Girl (Barbra Streisand);
Rosemary’s Baby (Mia Farrow);
Romeo and Juliet (Olivia Hussey,
Michael York); A Man and a Woman
(Anouk Aimee); The Graduate (Dustin
Hoffman, Anne Bancroft); Chitty
Chitty Bang Bang (Dick Van Dyke).
1969 HT HOLDEN DATA
six-cylinder ‘186S’, 4.2 litre V8 ‘253’, 5
litre V8 ‘307’, 5 litre V8 ‘308’ and 5.74
litre V8 ‘350’.
transmission.
$3988 (Brougham V8).
DIMENSIONS (BASIC SEDAN): Length:
4694 mm; Wheelbase: 2819 mm;
Width: 1824 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Premier and
Brougham have essentially the same
body as HK models plus flat grilles
with centrally mounted badge; other
models have similar body to HK but
with smooth rear guard/rear roof
pillar junction and wider rear window
plus recessed horizontally slatted
grille with raised centre featuring lion
and stone badge.
50
51
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» LC Torana modelling
» HD export shipment
» Production begins at Elizabeth
» 1963 - Queen Elizabeth visits the new Elizabeth plant
1960
1963
1966
1969
» Holden sales top 12,000 per month and the 750,000th Holden is built.
» A new engine plant and foundry open at Fishermans Bend.
» A new assembly plant opens at Acacia Ridge, Queensland.
» Production of left hand drive export Holdens begins and the first shipment
goes to Hawaii.
» Holden produces 166,274 cars during the year. Of these, 10,798 are shipped to
55 overseas markets.
» Holden is the first local manufacturer to fit seat belts on all models.
» The $20 million Australian made V8 is exhibited in the futuristic mid-engined
Holden Hurricane experimental car.
1961
» New body, paint and trim plants commence operation at Elizabeth and Queen
Elizabeth II visits the plant.
1967
1964
» The first small Holden called Torana is introduced, based on the English
Vauxhall Viva.
» Hydra-matic automatic transmissions imported from Detroit for fitment to
local Holdens.
» Statistics show a drop in sales - the main causes a credit squeeze and a new 40
per cent sales tax on motor cars.
» The number of Holden employees reaches 18,536 and the company pays $139.8
million dollars to supplier companies for materials, components and services.
1962
» A new engine plant nears completion at Fishermans Bend.
» The millionth Holden is built, only four years after the 500,000th. Production
reaches 600 units a day with cars going to every corner of Australia and 46
overseas territories.
» Holden’s fast-expanding Design and Engineering group moves into a new
Technical Centre at Fishermans Bend. It houses some 900 designers, engineers,
draftsmen, modellers and technicians in state of the art facilities.
1965
» Holden achieves its best sales month on record, with over 19,000 HDs
registered in May.
» Almost 20,000 Holdens are exported during the year and the Elizabeth vehicle
assembly plant begins operation.
» Student driver education scheme announced.
1968
» Torana bodies are made in Australia for the first time and work progresses on a
V8 engine plant at Fishermans Bend.
» Bruce McPhee and Barry Mulholland, driving a Monaro GTS 327 V8, win
the Hardie Ferodo 500, giving Holden its first victory in the annual Bathurst
production car endurance race.
» The original Torana HB is replaced by the Australian designed Torana LC,
available with an imported ‘four’ or locally made six cylinder engine.
» A new Safety Design Centre opens at Lang Lang with an impact sled and
concrete barrier for crash testing.
» The two millionth Holden is produced.
» Colin Bond and Tony Roberts, in a Monaro GTS 350 V8,
win the Hardie Ferodo 500.
52
53
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1970 HG HOLDEN
The third and final refinement of the HK/HT series introduced the Australian-built Trimatic
automatic transmission to full-sized models.
For the first time, Holden introduced
the entire model range on the same
day, emphasising its remarkable
diversity. The line-up was unchanged,
with sedans, wagons, Monaro coupes
and light commercial models in
several levels of specification, plus the
Brougham saloon.
HG had the biggest range of engine
options of any Holden before or
since, ranging from a 130 export-only
six-cylinder to the 350V8. The new
three-speed Trimatic transmission
(first seen late the year before on
the Torana LC), was standard on the
Brougham and available on all other
models except the Monaro GTS 350,
which offered a four-speed manual or
two-speed Powerglide automatic.
As well as a fine mesh design grille
and cleaner body decoration with
repositioned model and engine
badging, the HG offered a larger
range of colours. For the first time,
Kingswood buyers could choose
metallic paint, and GTS Monaro
could be specified in some crossover
Torana XU1 paint colours, including
the stand-out Yello Dolly, Lina-mint
and Purr-pull.
Improved disc brakes were now
fitted to all V8 models and the
Monaro GTS suspension system was
modified for greater comfort. This
was possible because race duties
had been taken over by the smaller
Torana and the Monaro was no
longer sold in Bathurst trim.
All HG changes, including the
optional Trimatic transmission
and choice of five locally produced
engines, were offered on the big
selling range of passenger car-derived
light commercials.
With the commencement of ADRs
(Australian Design Rules) in January
1970, more equipment became
compulsory over time. In 1971,
the previously optional motorised
heater/demister and rear seatbelts
were made standard, along with
a warning light and pressure
differential switch on the HG’s dualcircuit braking system.
POPULAR SONGS:
Let It Be (Beatles); Long and Winding
Road (Beatles); ABC (Jackson 5); Rhythm
of Life (Diana Ross and The Supremes);
Old Man Emu (John Williamson);
Woodstock (Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young).
POPULAR FILMS:
Easy Rider (Peter Fonda, Dennis
Hopper); Bob and Carol and Ted and
Alice (Robert Culp, Elliott Gould, Dyan
Cannon, Natalie Wood); Midnight
Cowboy (Dustin Hoffman); Butch
Cassidy and The Sundance Kid (Paul
Newman, Robert Redford); M*A*S*H
(Donald Sutherland, Elliott Gould);
Airport (Dean Martin, Helen Hayes);
2001: A Space Odyssey (Keir Dullea).
1970 HG HOLDEN DATA
V8 ‘253’, 5 litre V8 ‘308’ and 5.74 litre
V8 ‘350’.
gearbox, two four-speed manual
gearboxes, two-speed Powerglide
automatic transmission and threespeed Trimatic automatic transmission.
$3201 (Premier six-cylinder wagon).
mm; Width: 1824 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Premier and
Brougham continue with essentially
the same body as HK/HT models
and have flat grilles with centrally
mounted badge; other sedan models
have ‘egg-crate’ mesh grille divided
by vertical bar bearing Holden badge,
plus the HT’s smooth rear guard/rear
roof pillar junction.
54
55
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1971 HQ HOLDEN
Watergate and the women’s movement, flared trousers, platform shoes, Saturday Night Fever
and Number 96 were seventies hallmarks - and on the streets of Australia the HQ became the
automotive icon of the decade.
Built over an extended three-year
period and boasting a huge selection
of model variants, the all-new HQ was
the biggest-selling Holden ever.
Smoother, safer and more elegant
than any previous Holden and praised
for advanced features and individual
styling, it took a more sophisticated
design direction while delivering
the reliability and roominess Holden
buyers expected.
Monocoque construction and all-new
four-wheel coil spring suspension
provided superior ride and handling.
HQ’s six-cylinder powerplants were
given a longer stroke, increasing
capacities to 2.84 litres and 3.3 litres.
There were two versions of the locallybuilt V8 – a 4.2 litre 253 and a 5 litre
308 – and a 5.74 litre Chevrolet 350 .
Industry-leading safety initiatives
featured in the HQ. Forward vision
increased courtesy of thinner front
pillars, thick padding was incorporated
into the dashboard, door curvature
and design gave increased side impact
protection, rear seats were reinforced
and the fuel tank was mounted ahead
of the rear axle.
The 18-variant range included a long
wheelbase derivative for the first
time. The spacious Statesman offered
a plush interior and two trim levels:
Custom and DeVille. Also new was
the sporty SS, a four door V8 that was
a precursor to the hugely popular
1973 four-door HQ Monaro GTS.
Holden’s first cab/chassis truck,
the One Tonner, made its debut
at HQ and limited edition models
included the Vacationer and a Silver
Anniversary Premier.
POPULAR SONGS:
Love Story (Andy Williams); Eagle Rock
(Daddy Cool); It’s Too Late/I Feel the
Earth Move (Carole King); Father and
Son (Cat Stevens); Rainy Days and
Mondays (Carpenters); How Can You
Mend a Broken Heart? (Bee Gees).
POPULAR FILMS:
Carry On Again, Doctor (The Carry On
Gang); Patton (George C. Scott, Karl
Malden); Ryan’s Daughter (John Mills,
Sarah Miles); There’s a Girl in My Soup
(Peter Sellers, Goldie Hawn); Soldier
Blue (Candice Bergen, Peter Strauss).
1971 HQ HOLDEN DATA
3.3 litre six-cylinder ‘202’, 4.2 litre V8
‘253’, 5 litre V8 ‘308’ and 5.74 litre
V8 ‘350’.
TRANSMISSIONS: Three-speed
manual gearbox, four-speed manual
gearbox, three-speed Trimatic
automatic transmission and
three-speed Turbohydramatic 400
automatic transmission (only with
the ‘350’ V8).
utility, Sandman panel van, Sandman
utility, SS sedan, Premier sedan,
Premier station wagon, Holden cab/
chassis truck, Monaro coupe, Monaro
GTS coupe, Monaro GTS 350 coupe,
Monaro LS (‘Luxury Sports’) coupe,
Monaro GTS sedan, Statesman sedan
and Statesman De Ville sedan.
$3255 (Kingswood Vacationer sixcylinder sedan), $4630 (Monaro V8
GTS 350), $4660 (Statesman De Ville).
DIMENSIONS (BASIC SEDAN): Length:
4762 mm; Wheelbase: 2819 mm;
Width: 1880 mm.
‘creased’ side panels; grille separated
from headlights; recessed grille
featuring horizontal bar with central
Holden (or GTS) badge; Premier has
four headlights, Kingswood two; front
turn and rear turn indicators and stop
lights are incorporated into bumpers.
56
57
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1974 HJ HOLDEN
With major refinements to produce a big-car new look, the successful HQ concept
lived on in this series.
Revisions to front end sheet
metal made the HJ a longer car,
distinguished by new front guards
and bonnets, squarer, more
pronounced grilles emblazoned
with the new Holden lion logo,
wraparound front and rear lights and
larger protruding bumpers.
The biggest-selling variant, the
Kingswood, now had a 3.3 litre
engine and power-assisted disc
brakes as standard equipment.
A ‘Kingswood Deluxe’ sedan and
wagon package included commonly
specified options while keeping the
total price under $5000.
Significant interior upgrades included
an all-new dash and instrumentation
with strip-style speedo and
international function symbols,
revised ventilation system, full foam
seats and higher equipment levels.
The US-sourced 350 V8 was dropped
and the 4.2 litre and 5.0 litre Australianbuilt V8s now featured cable-type
throttle control. The 5.0 litre V8
received a revised camshaft and high
compression pistons. Front and rear
shock absorber valving and spring rates
were tweaked to improve ride quality.
In the HJ Statesman range, the De
Ville became the entry model and an
even more upmarket Caprice version
made its debut.
Sandman panel vans and utes
were strongly marketed to increase
Holden’s presence in the expanding
recreational market. One Tonners
retained the HQ series bodywork;
wagon and commercial rear styling
carried over from the HQ.
POPULAR SONGS:
Sugar Baby Love (The Rubettes);
The Night Chicago Died (Paper Lace);
I Honestly Love You (Olivia NewtonJohn); Hey Paula (Ernie Sigley and
Denise Drysdale); It’s Only Rock
and Roll (Rolling Stones); I Shot the
Sheriff (Eric Clapton).
POPULAR FILMS:
The Exocist (Linda Blair, Max Von
Sydow); The Great Gatsby (Robert
Redford, Mia Farrow); Alvin Purple
(Graham Blundell); A Touch of Class
(George Segal, Glenda Jackson);
The Sting (Robert Redford, Paul
Newman); Blazing Saddles (Mel
Brooks, Gene Wilder); The Effect of
Gamma Rays on Man in the Moon
Marigolds (Joanne Woodward).
1974 HJ HOLDEN DATA
‘253’ and 5 litre V8 ‘308’.
gearbox, four-speed manual gearbox,
three-speed Trimatic automatic
transmission and three-speed
Turbo-hydramatic 400 automatic
transmission (only with 5 litre ‘350’ V8).
station wagon, Kingswood sedan,
utility, Kingswood Sandman utility,
Kingswood Deluxe sedan, Premier
sedan, Premier station wagon, Holden
cab/chassis truck, Holden panel van,
Sandman panel van, Holden utility,
Sandman utility, Monaro coupe,
Monaro GTS coupe, Monaro GTS
sedan, Monaro LS (‘Luxury Sports’)
coupe, Statesman De Ville sedan and
Statesman Caprice sedan.
$4748 (Statesman).
mm; Width: 1874 mm.
HQ; Kingswood still has separate
grille and headlights but grille is
raised rather than recessed; vertical
front wraparound turn indicators
are now mounted above bumper bar
and wraparound rear tail lights are
fitted; Premier has quad headlights
fitted in surrounds which span
indicators and grille.
58
59
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1976 HX HOLDEN
The HX was a further refinement of the HQ/HJ series, the major change being a low-emission
version of each engine.
These notably less powerful engines
were fitted to ensure all Holdens met
strict new anti-pollution standards
required by Australian Design Rule 27A.
Styling changes across the range
included new grilles (vertical bars
in Belmont and Kingswood) new
nameplates, new hubcaps and wheel
covers and thicker side mouldings.
The GTS Monaro, now available as
a four-door sedan only, had bolder
blackout panels and GTS lettering.
Lower-spec HX models received
an improved instrument layout
with square-surround speedo and
Kingswood scored fan-boosted fresh
air ventilation and a temperature
gauge as standard, along with bucket
seats from early 1977.
The biggest improvement from a
driver’s viewpoint was a steering
column stalk giving fingertip control of
the wipers, washers, turn signals and
headlight beam control. Central locking
became optional for the first time
and service intervals were doubled to
10,000km or every six months.
Toward the middle of 1976, a limited
edition (600) Monaro LE wrapped up
eight years of sports coupe production.
Statesman models received
redesigned vertical bar grilles and
new wheel covers, Caprice offered
standard central locking and Delco
anti-lock rear drum brakes.
Recreational versions of the Sandman
panel van and ute continued to sell
well because of their strong appeal to
younger buyers. In late 1976, a limited
edition HX sedan marked 50 years of
General Motors operation in Australia.
POPULAR FILMS:
1976 HX HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
Babe (Susan Clark, Alex Karras); All
the President’s Men (Dustin Hoffman,
Robert Redford); Storm Boy (Greg
Rowe, David Gulpilil); Picnic at Hanging
Rock (Helen Morse, Anne Lambert);
Jaws (Richard Dreyfuss, Robert Shaw);
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (Jack
Nicholson, Louise Fletcher).
‘253’ & 5 litre V8 ‘308’.
Howzat (Sherbet); Fernando (ABBA);
Movie Star (Harpo); S-S-S-Single
Bed (Noosha Fox); Jailbreak (AC/
DC); Rhiannon (Fleetwood Mac);
Tonight’s the Night (Rod Stewart);
I Like It Both Ways (Supernaut);
Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (Elton
John and Kiki Dee).
transmission and three-speed
Turbo-hydramatic 400 automatic
transmission.
station wagon, Kingswood sedan,
Kingswood station wagon,
Kingswood utility, Kingswood panel
van, Premier sedan, Premier station
wagon, Holden cab/chassis truck,
Holden panel van, Sandman panel
van, Holden utility, Holden Sandman
utility, Monaro GTS sedan, Monaro LE
coupe, Statesman De Ville sedan and
Statesman Caprice sedan.
$5322 (Kingswood six-cylinder sedan),
$8554 (Statesman).
mm; Width: 1887 mm.
HQ and HJ with separate grille and
headlights on models other than
Premier; wider protruding vertically
slatted grille featuring Holden badge
in centre; model name on rear of front
quarter panel above protector strip.
60
61
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1977 HZ HOLDEN
Fourth and final revision of the HQ series and the first full-sized Holden to be fitted with the
acclaimed Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS) and four-wheel disc brakes.
RTS was fitted right across the HZ
range and made such dramatic
improvements to handling that it
forced competitors to introduce their
own improved suspension systems.
A revised egg crate style grille and
higher boot lid were among minor
exterior changes. The interior
received upgraded trim and improved
instrumentation. The Belmont sedan
and wagon were dropped, Kingswood
SL added – with a more basic version
available for fleet buyers.
The RTS system tuned the suspension
to radial play tyre characteristics.
By relocating control arms and
changing castor, camber, spring rates,
bushes, shock absorbers and steering
components, Holden engineers
produced a car with less body roll and
better tyre adhesion. Rear anti-roll bars
and upgraded front bars were fitted to
all models; rear disc brakes (first fitted
to the LX Torana A9X) were standard
on Statesman and GTS and optional on
all other sedans and wagons.
Kingswood received various
equipment upgrades, among them
reclining bucket seats, a laminated
windscreen, push-button AM radio,
carpet, heated rear screen, quartz
halogen headlights and remote
exterior mirror
The HZ stayed in production until
1980 and was the last traditional
sized Holden until the 1988 release
of the VN Commodore. WB versions
of the Statesman long-wheelbase
models and car-based commercials
were launched in 1980.
POPULAR FILMS:
1977 HZ HOLDEN DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
Rocky (Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire);
The Deep (Jacqueline Bissett, Robert
Shaw); Annie Hall (Woody Allen, Diane
Keaton); A Bridge Too Far (Michael
Caine, Gene Hackman, Ryan O’Neal);
Don’s Party (Graham Kennedy, Ray
Barrett, John Hargreaves).
4.2 litre V8 ‘253’ and 5 litre V8 ‘308’.
I Just Want to Be Your Everything
(Andy Gibb); Star Wars Disco Theme
(Meco); You’re in My Heart (Rod
Stewart); Silver Lady (David Soul); In
the Flesh (Blondie).
transmission, three-speed Turbohydramatic 350 (later 400) automatic
transmission.
MODELS: Kingswood sedan,
Kingswood station wagon,
Kingswood SL sedan, Kingswood SL
station wagon, Kingswood panel
van, Kingswood utility, Premier
sedan, Premier station wagon,
Holden cab/chassis truck, Holden
panel van, Sandman panel van,
Holden utility, Sandman utility,
Monaro GTS sedan, Statesman De
Ville sedan, Statesman Caprice sedan
and Statesman SL/E sedan.
$6377 (Kingswood SL six-cylinder
sedan), $7783 (Premier six-cylinder
wagon), $6867 (Sandman V8 van).
mm; Width: 1892 mm.
HQ/HJ/HX with separate grille and
headlights on models other than
Premier; ‘egg crate’ grille featuring
Holden badge top centre; Kingswood
SL and Premier have model names
in lower kerbside corner of grille; all
models have slightly raised boot lid.
62
63
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
30 YEARS OF COMMODORE
1978 - 2008
Thirty years is a long time for any automotive nameplate to survive, much less to carve out a
place in the hearts and minds of the people who drive it.
Over 30 years, the Holden Commodore
has delivered significant advances
in passenger car safety, comfort and
driveability on the way to becoming
Holden’s longest-standing and most
successful nameplate.
48-215. It was the product of a $110
million investment in development
and combined modern German
body design by GM affiliate Opel
with an Australian engine and local
mechanical components.
Since Commodore took over from
the Kingswood as Holden’s leading
family car range, more than 2.5 million
examples have been produced. The
Commodore name has graced 14
model series and four generations
of large rear-wheel-drive vehicles for
Australian and export markets.
How successfully Holden engineers
met the challenges involved in
‘Australianising’ the Opel platform is
described by John Wright in his 50-year
Holden history, ‘Heart of the Lion’.
During the seventies, the rising
popularity of smaller imports and
a series of fuel crises influenced
Holden’s decision to market a car that
was significantly smaller and lighter
than its predecessors.
The radically different VB Commodore
was widely regarded as the most
important new Holden since the
“ The need to make extensive changes to
the design in order to make the world car
work down under actually proved how
well Holden had created its unique cars.
Simply, Holden’s standards and
expectations about how cars would be
used and what kind of conditions they
should be engineered to withstand
were more demanding than in most
other car companies.”
Commodore has collected more than
60 major motoring awards and won
the prestigious Wheels Car of the
Year award a record five times – VB
(1978), VN (1988), VR (1993), VT
(1997) and VE (2006).
Advances in safety technology such
as driver, passenger, side impact
airbags, computer optimised
restraint systems, ABS brakes and
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) as
standard fitment were all introduced
on Commodore as ‘firsts’ for an
Australian-manufactured car.
Of course Commodore has special
meaning for motor sport fans and it
is a name synonymous with racing
success – particularly when it comes
to one of the world’s great touring car
endurance races, the Bathurst 1000.
Since Commodore first went to ‘the
Mountain’ in 1980, it has won the
event an unchallenged 18 times.
® ESP is a registered trademark of Daimler Chrysler AG
64
65
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1978 VB COMMODORE
Launched amid a sustained barrage of publicity, the VB quickly became Australia’s top-selling car and
drew rave reviews, including this from Wheels magazine:
“ The Commodore is a car we can be proud of, a car to compare with any (and we mean any) from Europe.
Meet a new and very different Holden… it’s the General’s finest hour.”
Some of the most significant aspects
of its design were clever interior space
utilisation, MacPherson strut front
suspension (Holden’s first) modified to
cope with Australian road conditions,
the use of rack and pinion steering, a
four-speed manual gearbox as standard
and generous features specification.
The new steering and up-rated
suspension systems with RTS
technology applied throughout
contributed to impressive new
standards of handling and ride
refinement while the increase in
aerodynamic efficiency afforded by
the new body significantly reduced
cabin noise levels.
The three-level range (Commodore,
Commodore SL and SL/E) utilised engine,
transmission and differential assemblies
from HZ and UC series models.
Very well equipped by prevailing
standards, the base model
Commodore was powered by a 2.85
litre six-cylinder engine and offered
front power-assisted brakes, carpets,
front bucket seats, clock, radio, heated
rear screen and remote-operated
driver’s exterior mirror. The midrange Commodore SL added a 3.3 litre
six, T-bar automatic, cloth seat trim,
height adjustable driver’s seat, rear
centre armrest, retractable rear seat
belts, intermittent windscreen wipers
and two remote-operated mirrors.
The top-of-the-line SL/E redefined the
benchmark for locally-produced luxury
sedans. It had a 4.2 litre V8 (5.0 litre
optional and 3.3 six optional from mid
1979) teamed with T-bar auto, fourwheel disc brakes, power steering,
15x6 alloy wheels with steel radial
tyres, integrated air conditioning,
velour interior trim, Blaupunkt
AM/FM radio cassette player, full
instrumentation, headlight wipers and
washers and optional leather trim.
Power windows and central locking were
optional across the range and buyers
could choose from a large number
of option packages offering various
powertrain and feature combinations.
The two VB wagon variants introduced
in mid-1979 featured a large cargo area
and one-piece lift-up tailgate.
POPULAR SONGS:
Three Times a Lady (Commodores);
Summer Nights (John Travolta and
Olivia Newton-John); Rasputin (Boney
M); You Needed Me (Anne Murray);
Who Are You? (The Who).
POPULAR FILMS:
The Goodbye Girl (Richard Dreyfuss,
Marsha Mason); Saturday Night Fever
(John Travolta); The Chant of Jimmie
Blacksmith (Tom E. Lewis, Angela Punch
McGregor); The Last Waltz (The Band,
Bob Dylan); Pretty Baby (Brooke Shields).
1978 VB COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 2.85 litre six-cylinder, 3.3 litre
six-cylinder, 4.2 litre V8 and 5 litre V8.
TRANSMISSIONS: Four-speed
manual gearbox, three-speed
Trimatic automatic transmission,
three-speed Turbohydramatic
350/400 automatic transmission.
MODELS: Commodore sedan,
Commodore station wagon,
Commodore SL sedan, Commodore
SL station wagon and Commodore
SL/E sedan.
$6513 (Commodore six-cylinder
sedan), $7813 (Commodore SL sixcylinder sedan), $10,513 (Commodore
SL/E six-cylinder sedan).
mm; Width: 1722 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: All-new smaller
body; centrally mounted square
Holden badge at top of hatched
front grille; side badging mounted on
bodywork above protector strip.
66
67
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» Statesman De Ville
» Norm Beechey’s 350 Monaro
» HQ One Tonner
1970
1972
» The stunning Torana GTR-X fibreglass-bodied coupe is exhibited to an
enthusiastic response, but plans to produce the car for sale are shelved.
» The LJ Torana, third in the series, is launched.
»T
otal Holden vehicle sales top 200,000.
»N
orm Beechey drives a Monaro to victory in the Australian
Touring Car Championship.
1971
» The first long wheelbase luxury Holden derivative, the Statesman, goes on sale
in six–cylinder and eight-cylinder versions.
» The first car-based Holden cab-chassis light truck is announced as part of the
HQ range.
» Colin Bond drives a Torana to victory in the Australian Rally Championship.
» Peter Brock wins the Bathurst Hardie Ferodo 500 in a six cylinder
Torana LJ GTR XU-1.
1973
» 25th anniversary of Holden manufacture in Australia.
» Peter Lang drives a Torana to victory in the Australian Rally Championship.
1974
» The three millionth Holden is produced.
» Holden produces its 100,000th Trimatic transmission.
» A Statesman available in De Ville and Caprice variants joins the stable.
» Colin Bond drives a Torana to victory in the Australian Rally Championship.
» A fourth Torana - the bigger LH model - is announced. Available only in fourdoor form, it is one of the few cars ever offered with a choice of four-, six- and
eight-cylinder engines.
» Peter Brock drives a Torana to victory in the Australian Touring Car Championship.
» LJ XU-1 Torana
68
69
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» UC Sunbird
» LX Torana A9X
» Repco Round Australia Reliability Trial
1975
» Bob Morris and John Fitzpatrick win the Hardie Ferodo 1000 in a Torana.
» Peter Brock and Jim Richards win the Hardie Ferodo 1000 in a Torana.
» The Holden Gemini TX, a version of GM’s first world car, is announced in twodoor and four-door versions. The Gemini is assembled in Australia from local
and Japanese components and soon becomes Australia’s most popular small
four-cylinder car.
1977
1979
» Holden’s acclaimed Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS) system is added to Torana
and full-sized Holdens.
» A $300 million Holden expansion program, including a new engine plant for
Fishermans Bend, is announced.
» The TE Gemini goes on sale.
1976
» The Torana range is expanded with the release of the A9X performance
equipment package. This turns the 5 litre V8 Torana into one of the most potent
road cars ever built in Australia. It has four-wheel disc brakes, a Holden first.
» General Motors celebrates its 50th anniversary in Australia.
» The HZ Statesman is released.
» The HX series Statesman luxury sedan is announced.
» Holden maintains market leadership for 25th consecutive year.
» The last Torana is sold after 12 years of production, six series of models and
more than 390,000 sales.
» The LX Torana range is unveiled, with choice between a sedan body and the
first locally produced hatchback.
1978
» The HZ series Statesman ‘SL/E’ is announced.
» The six-cylinder UC Torana and four-cylinder UC Sunbird are released with a
choice of sedan and hatchback body styles.
» Bob Morris drives a Torana to victory in the Australian Touring Car Championship.
» Peter Brock and Brian Sampson win the Hardie-Ferodo 1000 in a Torana LH V8.
» Production of Monaro coupes is wound up with 600 highly-specified ‘LE’
(Limited Edition) models.
» HJ Monaro LS
» TX Gemini
» Late in the year the four-cylinder LX Torana is revised and relaunched as the
Holden Sunbird. Sedan and hatchback variants are equipped with the new
Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS).
» The Gemini TD is announced with sedan, coupe, three-door station wagon and
panel van variants.
» The Holden production tally (at release of VB Commodore) stands at 3.6 million.
» Peter Brock drives a Torana to victory in the Australian Touring Car Championship.
» A ‘De Luxe’ version of the UC Sunbird sedan is unveiled. The hatchback body
style is discontinued.
» Peter Brock and Jim Richards win the Hardie Ferodo 1000 in a Torana.
» Peter Brock is nominated as lead driver for a team of three ‘works’ six-cylinder
Commodore VBs competing in the Repco Round Australia Reliability Trial. The
Commodores achieve a one-two-three clean sweep of the outright placings.
70
71
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1980 VC COMMODORE
Specifically identified by a new grille treatment, the VC refined the Commodore concept
and upgraded long-running Red series engines to Blue XT5 specification.
Wheels magazine said: “ The new VC
Commodore isn’t perfect ... but that
doesn’t stop us declaring that it is easily
the best Australian car ever.”
While the line-up was basically
unchanged – the entry level model
was now badged Commodore L – VC
delivered major improvements in power
output, driveability and economy.
The revised Blue XT5 engines were up
to 25 per cent more powerful and 15
per cent more economical than before.
The sixes received a 12-port head, new
manifolding, two-barrel carburettors
and electronic ignition. The V8s had
new heads, inlet manifold electronic
ignition and a four-barrel carburettor
for the 4.2 version. A four-cylinder
model released mid-year was powered
by a 1.9 litre unit based on the Holden
Sunbird Starfire engine.
Suspension upgrades further
improved ride and handling
characteristics. The VC SL/E offered
a Shadowtone dark over light paint
finish, a two-tone feature not seen
on a new Holden for 20 years, and
optional cruise control with the 4.2 V8.
VC introduced the first highperformance HDT Commodore,
born of a partnership between
GMH and Peter Brock’s Holden
Dealer Team, which made a debut in
September 1980, complete with major
mechanical modifications, spoiler,
wheel arch flares, body striping, decals
and colour-coded bumpers.
The VC kept Commodore in its place
as Australia’s top-selling car and soon
after its launch, production of the
Holden HZ range was discontinued.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: March
POPULAR FILMS:
1980 VC COMMODORE DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
Kramer vs. Kramer (Dustin Hoffman,
Meryl Streep); Apocalypse Now
(Marlon Brando, Martin Sheen, Robert
Duvall); Manhattan (Woody Allen,
Diane Keaton); The China Syndrome
(Jane Fonda, Michael Douglas); 10
(Dudley Moore, Bo Derek); Life of Brian
(Monty Python); My Brilliant Career
(Judy Davis, Sam Neill).
ENGINES: 1.9 litre four-cylinder, 2.85
litre six-cylinder, 3.3 litre six-cylinder,
4.2 litre V8 and 5 litre V8.
I Got You (Split Enz); Crazy Little Thing
Called Love (Queen); London Calling
(The Clash); Coward of the County
(Kenny Rogers); Another Brick in the
Wall, Part 2 (Pink Floyd); Always Look on
the Bright Side of Life (Monty Python);
Brass in Pocket (The Pretenders).
manual gearbox, three-speed
Trimatic automatic transmission and
three-speed Turbohydramatic 350
MODELS: Commodore L sedan,
Commodore L station wagon,
Commodore SL sedan, Commodore
SL station wagon and Commodore
SL/E sedan.
$7903 (Commodore L six-cylinder
mm; Width: 1722 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Similar body to VB
but with new hatched grille; Holden
badge mounted centre of grille and
centre of boot; black trim on sedan tail
lights; ‘Commodore’ on kerb side of
grille and boot; model name set into
rubber protector strip on front doors.
72
73
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1981 VH COMMODORE
Transition to the third Commodore series in four years was one
of refinement rather than drastic change.
A subtle reworking with revisions
to the grille, headlights and tail
lamps gave the Commodore a more
angular appearance.
A five-speed manual gearbox was
available for the first time, matched
to the four-cylinder and 2.85 litre six
powerplants. Other modifications,
among them the first fitment of
advanced computer electronics on
a locally built car, aimed at lowering
exhaust emissions and increasing
fuel efficiency.
Model designations were reshuffled
so that the former Commodore L
became the Commodore SL and the SE
was now badged SL/X. The top-range
SL/E remained unchanged.
Buyers were presented with a choice
of seven new exterior colours and a
new leather interior trim was added
to the options list, along with a
seven-function digital trip computer,
specified as standard on SL/E. Further
convenience items included central
locking, seat height adjustment and
cruise control.
Mechanical changes centred around
the introduction of an XT6 engine
upgrade to 1.9 litre four- and 2.85 six
cylinder engines. The four received
Electronic Spark Selection engine
management, the six an air pump air
injection system.
City cycle fuel economy gains of 12.5
and 14 per cent respectively were
achieved, along with improvements
in performance and driveability.
The series saw three limited edition
runs of Vacationer sedans and wagons.
The VH SS Commodore launched in
1982 4.2 V8 (5.0 litre specified later)
with 14” alloy wheels, colour-coded
grille and bumpers, black-painted
badges, sills and window frames,
full instrumentation and tweed trim
provided the basis for Peter Brock’s
HDT Group 1, 2 and 184kW Group 3
performance packages.
POPULAR SONGS:
Endless Love (Lionel Richie and Diana
Ross); You Weren’t in Love with Me
(Billy Field); Hooked On Classics (Royal
Philharmonic Orchestra); Chariots Of
Fire (Vangelis); Physical (Olivia NewtonJohn); Wired for Sound (Cliff Richard).
POPULAR FILMS:
9 to 5 (Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton, Lily
Tomlin); Atlantic City (Burt Lancaster,
Susan Sarandon); The Elephant Man
(John Hurt); Chariots of Fire (Ben
Cross, Ian Charleson); Stir Crazy (Gene
Wilder, Richard Pryor).
1981 VH COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 1.9 litre four-cylinder, 2.85
litre six-cylinder, 3.3 litre six-cylinder,
4.2 litre V8 and 5 litre V8.
manual gearbox, five-speed manual
gearbox, three-speed Trimatic
automatic transmission and threespeed Turbo-hydramatic 350
MODELS: Commodore SL sedan,
Commodore SL station wagon,
Commodore SL/X sedan, Commodore
SL/X station wagon, Commodore SS
sedan and Commodore SL/E sedan
plus WB Statesman sedans and WB
light commercials.
$8366 (Commodore SL four-cylinder
mm; Width: 1722 mm.
VB and VC but with lower front end
bodywork and horizontally slatted
grille; Holden badge mounted centre
of grille and centre of boot; the word
‘Commodore’ written on rubber
bumper insert on side of car forward
of front wheel arch.
74
75
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1984 VK COMMODORE
Strikingly different styling and plenty of specification changes set this series apart
and it upped the ante in the good value stakes.
A really substantial facelift gave the
VK a larger, cleaner look. Although
little of the bodywork was changed,
Holden designers introduced sixwindow styling (adding an extra rear
window at the rear roof pillar).
Although equipment levels were
greatly increased, the VK was cheaper
than the last VH models. Features
included an advanced computerised
engine management system and
optional electronic fuel-injection.
A new louvered grille was integrated
with a polypropylene bumper and
wraparound side body mouldings.
Sedan number plates were recessed
into rear bumpers and while wagons
had the new grille and bumpers, they
retained VH body structure.
VK also introduced the model names
of Berlina and Calais and an Executive
option package was available on SL
sedan and wagon. The Calais had
advanced Australian-made digital/
analogue electronic instrumentation,
incorporating an electronic odometer
and trip computer, as well as standard
central locking, power windows
and cruise control. The square-look
instrument layout was all-new; sound
systems and security were upgraded.
Base powerplant was now the 3.3 litre
six, improved with Electronic Spark
Timing engine management.
A powerful new EFI 3.3 litre six, which
lifted power output without loss of
fuel economy, was standard on Calais.
The 4.2 litre V8 was deleted.
Earlier, a swing back to larger cars
had caused Commodore to lose its
top-selling position. The VK didn’t win
back total market leadership for 1984
but made strong gains and in some
months it was the top seller.
Many performance versions were
produced, among them the sporting
evolution HDT SS Group A, painted
spanking Formula Blue.
Berlina station wagon, Commodore SS
sedan and Calais sedan.
Walters); Gorky Park (William Hurt).
POPULAR SONGS:
1984 VK COMMODORE DATA
Islands in the Stream (Kenny Rogers
and Dolly Parton); Kiss The Bride
(Elton John); Relax (Frankie Goes To
Hollywood); Girls Just Want to Have
Fun (Cyndi Lauper); Jump (Van Halen).
ENGINES: 3.3 litre EST six-cylinder
(86kW); 3.3 litre EFI six-cylinder
(109kW); 5.0-litre V8 (117kW auto,
121kW manual).
$11,152 (Commodore SL six-cylinder
sedan), $13,994 (Berlina six-cylinder
sedan), $19,315 (Calais six-cylinder
sedan).
manual gearbox, five-speed manual
gearbox and three-speed Trimatic
mm; Width: 1722 mm.
POPULAR FILMS:
The Day After (Jason Robards, Jo Beth
Williams); Careful, He Might Hear You
(Wendy Hughes, John Hargreaves);
Class (Rob Lowe, Jacqueline Bissett);
Educating Rita (Michael Caine, Julie
Commodore Berlina sedan, Commodore
IDENTIFICATION: Similar to VB/VC/
VH models but with additional side
window near each rear roof pillar and
a grille composed of three horizontal
louvres merging into a polypropylene
bumper; lower front panel integrated
with bumper and includes air
intake; the word ‘Holden’ is written
on kerbside of central grille louvre
(depending on model).
76
77
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1986 VL COMMODORE
The VL series Commodore brought about more changes than many all-new models.
In addition to comprehensive exterior
and interior design improvements,
it introduced a completely new
imported six-cylinder engine and an
electronically controlled four-speed
With all-new front end sheet metal,
a slim grille and ‘homofocal’ slimline
headlights, the VL presented a
completely new Commodore face to
the world. Rear quarter body panels
were new and there was an integral
boot lid spoiler. Calais stood apart
from the rest with semi-concealed
headlights and a transparent grille.
The remodelled interior featured an
all-new dash fascia and instrument
layout with binnacle-mounted touch
controls. The use of a Nissan-supplied
Japanese engine at first made the
VL a controversial model, but when
the fuss died the public discovered
a very refined and much improved
Commodore with a sensational sixcylinder drivetrain.
In spite of the 1986 switch to lower
octane unleaded fuel, the high-tech
3-litre Powertech engine gave the SL
model 33 per cent more power and
improved fuel efficiency by 15 per cent.
Motor Manual magazine said:
“ The new engine transforms the
Commodore. [It] is smoother, quieter,
more responsive and has more
power at the top end. We found both
automatic and manual Commodores
would reach an indicated 200 km/h.”
The VL enabled Holden to regain
number one position with private
buyers, although it was still being
outsold by Falcon in the fleet market.
1986 saw the introduction of an
optional 150 kW turbocharged 3.3
litre six, with more power on tap than
most V8s, and later in the year an
unleaded fuel version of the 5.0 litre
carburettored V8 was announced.
Two interesting low-volume 1988
additions were a Calais wagon and a
fuel-injected VL Commodore SS Group
A sedan, the latter produced by the
newly-formed Holden Special Vehicles
and designed to make the EFI V8
eligible for touring car racing.
POPULAR FILMS:
POPULAR SONGS:
A Good Heart (Feargal Sharkey);
The Power of Love (Jennifer Rush);
Working Class Man (Jimmy Barnes);
You Belong to the City (Glenn Frey).
Witness (Harrison Ford, Kelly McGillis);
Kiss of the Spiderwoman (William
Hurt, Raul Julia); Prizzi’s Honor (Jack
Nicholson, Kathleen Turner); Plenty
(Meryl Streep, Tracey Ullman, Charles
Dance); Bliss (Barry Otto); Back to the
Future (Michael J Fox).
1986 VL COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 3.0 litre six-cylinder
(114kW); 3.0 litre turbocharged sixcylinder (150kW); 5.0 litre V8 (122kW).
TRANSMISSIONS: Five-speed manual
gearbox, four-speed automatic
transmission and three-speed Trimatic
automatic transmission (for V8).
Commodore Berlina sedan,
Commodore Berlina station wagon,
Commodore SS sedan, Calais sedan
and Calais wagon.
$13,830 (SL six-cylinder manual
sedan), $15,150 (Executive six-cylinder
automatic sedan), $18,381 (SL sixcylinder turbo manual sedan), $23,540
(Calais automatic sedan).
mm; Width: 1722 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Substantial
reworking of Commodore body shell
with lowered front-end bodywork
featuring wide slim headlights and
small louvred grille; Holden badge
front centre between bonnet and
grille; Calais has transparent grille and
semi-concealed headlights; all models
have integral plastic front bumper/
spoiler/air intake and raised lip at the
rear of the boot lid.
78
79
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1988 VN COMMODORE
A major success from day one. It won all the ‘Car of the Year’ awards and with the help of a
memorable advertising campaign – “Like it? I love it!” – claimed the title of Australia’s most
popular car by the end of 1989.
Marking a return to the full-sized
family car after a decade of the
smaller VB–VL Commodores, the VN
was based on a German Opel design
- widened and radically re-designed
for Australia.
It introduced a totally new ‘aero look’
body, featuring a raked windscreen
and large areas of flush-fitting glass.
The standard powerplant – a torque,
Buick-sourced 3.8 litre V6 with a
locally developed engine management
system – was as powerful as the old
carburettored V8.
VN’s refined 165kW fuel-injected V8,
the most powerful mass-produced
Aussie engine so far, was standard on
the SS and optional across the range.
Transmissions were new, with buyers
given the choice of an Australianmade T5 five-speed manual
transmission or US-sourced fourspeed overdrive T-bar automatic.
Four wheel disc brakes and power
steering were standard. While the
rear track was widened by 50mm,
suspension and steering systems
carried over from the VL.
The roomy, totally new interior
included a one-piece dash facia, wide
centre console and binnacle-mounted
‘fingertip’ controls on either side of
the instrument panel.
The VN wagon was built on a longer
wheelbase and could be ordered with
an additional rear bench seat which
turned it into a seven-seater (a 1991
front bench seat/column shift option
made it an eight seater).
1990 upgrades brought new wheel
trims, an illuminated ignition lock,
upgraded sound systems, climate
control on Calais, upgraded seating
for SS and a smoother EV6 version of
the VN V6.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: August 1988.
POPULAR SONGS:
Age of Reason (John Farnham); Perfect
(Fairground Attraction); Simply
Irresistible (Robert Palmer); Better Be
Home Soon (Crowded House); Fast Car
(Tracy Chapman); Hole in My Heart/All
the Way to China (Cyndi Lauper).
POPULAR FILMS:
Cane Toads (documentary); Coming
to America (Eddie Murphy); The
Unbearable Lightness of Being (Daniel
Day Lewis); Good Morning Vietnam
(Robin Williams); Cry Freedom (Kevin
Kline, Denzel Washington); Fatal
Attraction (Michael Douglas, Glenn
Close); Frantic (Harrison Ford).
1988 VN COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 3.8-litre V6 (127kW), 5.0 litre
EFI V8 (165kW).
gearbox, four-speed Turbohydramatic
700 automatic.
MODELS: Commodore Executive sedan,
Commodore Executive station wagon,
Berlina station wagon, Commodore S
sedan, Commodore S station wagon,
Commodore SS sedan, Calais sedan,
VG utility, VG ‘S’ utility, VQ Statesman
saloon, VQ Caprice saloon.
$20,014 (Commodore Executive
six-cylinder manual sedan), $21,665
(Commodore S six-cylinder manual
sedan), $25,375 (Commodore SS V8
manual sedan), $31,265 (Calais sixcylinder sedan), $39,950 (Statesman),
$61,861 (Caprice, including short-lived
50 per cent luxury car sales tax).
mm; Width: 1794 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: All-new rounded
body with slim rectangular headlights;
differing louvred grilles for Executive/
Berlina and Calais; Holden badge in
centre of grille except on Calais which
has a bonnet badge.
TOTAL NUMBER BUILT: 215,180,
including the 5 millionth Holden.
80
81
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» Jackaroo SWB
1980
» WB Statesman, Caprice and car-based commercials launched. Plans for a WB
series sedan and wagon reach advanced stages but are not pursued.
» A high-performance Commodore VC V8 is produced in partnership with HDT
Special Vehicles and quickly dubbed the ‘Brock’ Commodore.
» Isuzu-sourced Rodeo light commercial range goes on sale.
» Brock/Richards complete a hat trick of Bathurst victories – this time
in a Commodore.
1981
» The four millionth Holden, a VC Commodore, is driven off the line by Sir
Laurence Hartnett, Holden MD from 1934-46 and recognised as the father of
the Holden car project.
» Gemini TE sedan launched - first diesel passenger car manufactured locally.
» Isuzu-sourced Holden Jackaroo, Holden’s first 4WD passenger vehicle,
is announced.
» The new engine plant at Fishermans Bend begins production of Family II four-
» JB Camira
» Sir Laurence Hartnett
cylinder engines – the first batch exported to England.
1982
» The Shuttle forward control van is unveiled.
» Camira JB sedan, Holden’s version of GM’s new international ‘J car’, is released
with a locally built 1.6 litre engine and is the first front wheel drive car
produced by Holden.
» TF Gemini goes on sale.
» Brock/Perkins win the James Hardie 1000 (formerly Hardie Ferodo 1000)
in a Commodore.
» JE Camira
1984
» New Jackaroo 4WD wagon and Rodeo light commercial models are introduced.
» 1.5 litre Astra hatchback is launched. Built for Holden by Nissan Australia with
some components manufactured by Holden, it represents the first example of
local model sharing.
» The high performance ‘Brock’ Commodore Group A V8 is unveiled.
1986
» Peter Brock launches HDT VK SS Commodore VK and produces the SS
Commodore Group 3 in conjunction with Holden.
» The original Astra is replaced by the updated 1.6 litre Astra LC.
» Brock/Perkins win the James Hardie 1000 in a VK Commodore.
» Isuzu-sourced Piazza sports coupe goes on sale.
» JD Camira introduces distinctive front end styling and is offered with a 1.8 litre
fuel-injected engine.
» Barina is updated with the ML model.
1983
» Holden announces that long-wheelbase models and car-based light
commercials will be discontinued.
» Upgraded Rodeo range includes new utilities and crew cabs; 4WD Jackaroo is
upgraded.
1985
» TG Gemini is announced.
» The Suzuki-sourced Holden Barina, 4WD Holden Drover and Scurry van
are announced.
» Australian-developed wagon joins JB Camira range; component sets for this
wagon are exported.
» A single point tool body assembly shuttle is introduced at Holden’s Elizabeth plant.
» Brock/Perkins/Harvey join forces to win the James Hardie 1000 in a Commodore.
» Acacia Ridge (Qld) plant closes.
» The all-new front drive Gemini RB sedan rolls off the line at Elizabeth.
» The VL Commodore SS Group A is announced – to be the last official product of
a six-year Holden/HDT collaboration.
» Allan Grice and Graham Bailey win the James Hardie 1000 in a Commodore.
» Sir Laurence Hartnett dies.
» Holden is restructured into two companies: Holden’s Motor Company (HMC)
and Holden’s Engine Company (HEC).
1987
» Camira is updated with the JE model, featuring a fuel injected 2 litre engine.
82
83
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» GM’s SunRaycer
» Astra hatchback joins the Holden range - result of a joint development with
Nissan Australia. A sedan version follows.
» Holden’s Motor Company severs links with HDT.
» GM’s SunRaycer wins the world’s first cross-continental solar race, run from
Darwin to Adelaide. Racing champion John Harvey is the lead driver.
» Peter Brock’s Commodore is third over the line at Bathurst but later declared
the winner when first and second competitors are disqualified.
» Formation of a new joint venture company is announced by Holden’s Motor
Company Ltd, AMI/Toyota Ltd and Toyota Manufacturing Australia Ltd.
1988
» Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) commences operation. It builds the fuel-injected
V8 Holden VL SS Group A Supercar – a joint development by Holden and Tom
Walkinshaw’s TWR.
» Other HSV vehicles launched include the VL Calais SV88 and VN
Commodore SV3800.
» MF Barina
» LD Astra
» Agreements are signed to create United Australian Automotive Industries Ltd
(UAAI), controlling company for the Holden-Toyota joint venture. The GM arm
is to be called General Motors - Holden’s Automotive Ltd (GMHA).
» The one millionth Holden Family II four cylinder engine is exported.
» The MF Barina is released with a completely new ‘aero’ body.
» Plans for GM/Isuzu truck joint venture operation are announced.
1989
» VN Commodore range wins Wheels, Car Australia and Modern Motor 1988 Car
of the Year awards.
» LD Astra wins Car Australia Best Small Car award.
» Model sharing with Toyota begins, leading to Toyota Lexcen (Commodore),
Holden Nova (Corolla) and Holden Apollo (Camry). Nova and Apollo models
replace Astra and Camira.
» HSV releases Commodore SV89, SV5000 and LE.
» Commodore is Australia’s best-selling car.
» 1988 VL SS Group A
84
85
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1991 VP COMMODORE
The first facelift of the brilliantly successful VN brought substantial engineering refinements
and equipment upgrades.
Holden’s independent rear suspension
(IRS) system, which was introduced
on the long wheelbase Statesman/
Caprice models in 1990, became
standard on the VP Calais and SS
models and was offered as an option
on Commodore Executive and Berlina.
All VP Commodore sedans and
wagons were fitted with remote
central locking and a sophisticated
anti-theft system. It included an
engine management system disabling
device, ignition cut-out and keyoperated driver’s door deadlock.
The VP engines were carryover units
but progressive changes introduced
during VN production had greatly
reduced vibration and harshness. The
most notable results of the VP changes
were improved ride quality, better
handling, improved smoothness and
markedly reduced cabin noise.
All VP Commodores also had poweradjusted mirrors. Additional Berlina
features included a tachometer, cruise
control and passenger seat adjustable
lumbar support, while the Calais
benefited from a new Variotronic
vehicle speed sensitive power steering
system and a body computer.
This computer controlled many things
including the power steering system,
variable instrument dimming and an
automatic ‘lights out’ feature activated
when the key was removed and
the door opened. Holden engineers
noted that this computer would give
them the capacity to install highly
sophisticated equipment, including
multiplex wiring and navigation
systems, in future models.
A HSV-enhanced 180kW V8 engine
became optional across the range in
early 1992. Further models included
the luxurious limited edition Calais
International, Berlina LX sedans
and wagons and value-added pack
Vacationer sedans and wagons. The
VP range also saw the introduction
of the Series II concept and a no-cost,
three-year roadside service package,
with Calais models.
POPULAR SONGS:
Everything I Do, I Do It For You (Bryan
Adams); Love.. Thy Will Be Done
(Martika); You Could Be Mine (Guns
n’ Roses); I Gotcha (Jimmy Barnes);
Unforgettable (Natalie Cole with
the voice of Nat ‘King’ Cole); Treaty
(Yothu Yindi).
POPULAR FILMS:
Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves
(Kevin Costner); Thelma & Louise
(Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis);
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (Arnold
Schwarzenegger); The Naked Gun 2½
(Leslie Nielsen, Priscilla Presley).
1991 VP COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 3.8 litre V6 (127kW); 5.0 litre
V8 (165kW, 180kW option).
gearbox, four-speed Turbo-hydramatic
700 automatic transmission.
MODELS: Commodore Executive sedan,
Commodore Executive station wagon,
Berlina station wagon, Commodore
S sedan, Commodore S wagon,
Commodore SS sedan, Calais sedan,
Calais International (from late 1992). VP
Series II introduced early 1995.
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION (INCL S/
TAX): $23,992 (Commodore Executive
(Commodore S six-cylinder manual
sedan), $32,492 (Commodore SS V8
manual sedan with IRS), $37,892
(Calais six-cylinder sedan with IRS).
mm; Width: 1812 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Revision of VN
body, with headlights and turn
lenses wrapping deep into the front
guards; full-width acrylic grille with
low air intake (semi-transparent
grille on Executive and Berlina until
January 1993, body colour on S and
SS throughout model run); formal
grille on Calais; all models have central
circular badge on leading edge of
bonnet and rear of boot lid; body
coloured front and rear bumpers on
all versions except ute.
86
87
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1993 VR COMMODORE
The most technically sophisticated Holden to date was radically altered externally
and placed a high priority on safety improvements.
Rounded rear wheel arches made for a
distinctly different silhouette and VR’s
‘twin port’ grille played gentle homage
to the 1953 FJ Holden.
The VR safety story was a big one; a
well-priced new model called Acclaim
combined more safety features than
any other car in the family price
bracket. It had a driver-side airbag,
independent rear suspension (IRS) and
antilock braking system (ABS).
Other standard VR features included
front seatbelt webbing clamps and for
sedans a lap/sash centre rear belt. The
driver airbag was standard on Calais
and optional across the range.
Inside, a soft-form instrument panel
wrapped around into the moulded
door trims, the new steering wheel
was height and reach-adjustable. The
revised A/C system was free of ozonedepleting chemicals.
A powertrain control module formed
part of a state-of-the art electronics
package controlling mechanical,
comfort and security features.
All models had a body computer and a
sophisticated electronic security system
incorporating an electronic door/
ignition key and remote central locking.
The 3.8 litre V6 delivered slightly
more power (130 kW), more
refinement, better fuel economy
and fewer emissions.
The 165 kW V8 was carried over from
the VP, but a further option of a 185
kW unit (with 400 Nm of torque) was
extended. All engines could be mated
to a sophisticated new electronically
controlled automatic transmission.
Extensive front suspension revisions
were supplemented by a wider
track and larger 15” road wheels
contributed to improved ride and
handling qualities.
POPULAR SONGS:
Towing capability was boosted to
2100 kg and all models benefited
from substantially more comfort and
convenience features.
Can’t Help Falling in Love (UB40);
That’s the Way Love Goes (Janet
Jackson); Two Princes (Spin Doctors);
Oh Carolina (Shaggy); Believe
(Lenny Kravitz).
Turner); The Heartbreak Kid (Claudia
Karvan, Alex Dimitriades).
1993 VR COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 3.8 litre V6 (130kW); 5.0 litre
V8 (165kW, 185kW option).
POPULAR FILMS:
gearbox, four-speed electronically
controlled automatic trans-mission.
Peter’s Friends (Kenneth Branagh,
Emma Thompson); Aladdin (animated
film with voice of Robin Williams);
Cliffhanger (Sylvester Stallone, Janine
MODELS: Commodore Executive
sedan, Commodore Executive wagon,
Commodore S sedan, Commodore
SS sedan, Commodore Acclaim
sedan, Commodore Acclaim wagon,
Berlina wagon, Calais sedan.
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION (INCL S/
TAX): $25,302 (Commodore Executive
(Commodore Acclaim six-cylinder auto
sedan), $43,692 (Calais V8 auto sedan).
mm; Width: 1794 mm.
IDENTIFICATION: Further revision of
VN/VP body, with reshaped headlights
and turn lenses plus ‘twin port’ grille.
Restyled front and rear guards. Front
bumper has large central air intake
and a small brake cooling duct on each
side. High mounted, rounded rear tail
lights on sedans.
88
89
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1995 VS COMMODORE
Big news was the arrival of a lighter, smoother, more powerful and fuel-efficient
ECOTEC V6 engine and the inclusion of dual airbags for the first time on an Australian-made car.
Apart from a new hood emblem and
brightwork in the twin grille slots,
exterior styling remained largely
unchanged, but there were significant
under-the-skin improvements to
engines and transmissions.
In line with terminology used by GM
Europe, the smoother, quieter, 3.8
litre V6 engine was named ECOTEC,
for Emissions and Consumption
Optimisation through TEChnology.
Maximum power was increased by
17kW to 147kW at 5200rpm and it
used around five per cent less fuel.
Low friction technology developed
in Australia and GM research
centres was utilised extensively
in the ECOTEC V6 and all major
components were upgraded. It
received a lower deck design, a new
cylinder block, lightweight higher
compression pistons and lighter
cylinder heads with reshaped
combustion chambers. Engine
management system computing
power and memory were doubled
and hot wire air mass metering and
sequential fuel injection fitted.
The four-speed automatic was reengineered to complement the new
engine and its computing power was
doubled. Changes included revised shift
patterns for improved throttle response
and reduced fuel consumption.
Driver and passenger airbags
were fitted as standard in the VS
Commodore Acclaim and Calais,
optional in all other models.
Security was further improved. The
three-button remote door-locking
control could now be used to unlock the
driver’s door only, to prevent unwanted
entry by intruders at other doors.
1996. Among limited edition models
were VS Vacationer, Equipe and Esteem.
Interior changes included raised trim
levels and new colour schemes.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: April
The Series II VS Commodore range (June
1996) brought a five-speed Getrag
manual gearbox for ECOTEC V6 models
and a more refined V8. All models
received new seat and door trim, with
the Calais gaining additional woodgrain
trim, new 16” alloys and recessed fog
lamps. A supercharged 3.8 litre 165kW
V6 became optional on Calais later in
POPULAR SONGS:
Total Eclipse of the Heart (Nicki
French); Think Twice (Celine Dion);
Another Night (M.C.Sar and The Real
McCoy); Bedtime Story (Madonna).
POPULAR FILMS:
Dumb and Dumber (Jim Carrey, Jeff
Daniels); Little Women (Winona
Ryder, Susan Sarandon); Star Trek Generations (William Shatner); Bad
Boys (Martin Lawrence, Will Smith).
1995 VS COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 3.8 litre ECOTEC V6
(147kW); 3.8 litre Supercharged V6
(165kW); 5.0 litre V8 (165kW, 168kW);
5.0 litre V8 (185 kW).
sedan, Commodore Executive
wagon, Commodore S sedan,
Commodore SS sedan, Commodore
Acclaim sedan, Commodore Acclaim
wagon, Commodore Berlina sedan,
Commodore Berlina wagon, Calais
sedan, VS utility, VS ‘S’ utility.
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION
(INCLUDING S/TAX): $26,780
(Commodore Executive six-cylinder
manual sedan), $30,890 (Commodore
Acclaim six-cylinder auto sedan),
$45,830 (Calais V8 auto sedan).
Length: 4861mm; Wheelbase:
2731mm; Width: 1794mm.
IDENTIFICATION: New design of
Holden Lion emblem, ECOTEC V6
badges on front guards of six-cylinder
cars, bright trim in grille openings;
oval side repeaters on Series II.
90
91
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1997 VT COMMODORE
The all-Australian result of a $600 million investment and the largest and most advanced new
vehicle engineering program Holden had ever undertaken.
» VT II SS
The totally new VT range was
characterised by powerfully sculpted
exterior styling, more spacious and
luxuriously equipped interiors, classleading vehicle dynamics and significant
strides in safety performance.
The design integrity of its
substantially stronger body structure
was reflected in appreciably higher
levels of build quality and driving
refinement. Many VT features were
‘firsts’ for an Australian car.
With its wider track and longer
wheelbase, the VT was the largest
Commodore so far and the first to
be designed to suit left- and righthand drive configurations. The level
of standard equipment – it included
a driver airbag, electric driver’s seat
adjustment, trip computer, advanced
security and remote boot release – was
higher than in any other car in its class.
Safety initiatives included computer
designed, crash energy-absorbing
body structures, computer optimised
restraint systems, pyrotechnic seat
belt buckle pre-tensioners and anti-
submarining ramps. Side impact
airbags were also made available later
in this model’s life.
The all-new heavy duty braking system
worked in tandem with an ‘Australian
first’ traction control system. Ride and
handling attributes set a benchmark
in driver’s car chassis dynamics and IRS
was fitted across the range.
The interior offered a completely
new instrument panel layout, new
seating and richer soft trims. Calais
came complete with dual zone climate
control, a personal PowerKey system and
‘twilight sentinel’ automatic headlamps.
Few changes were made to the
recently upgraded 3.8 litre ECOTEC
V6 powerplant. Supercharged V6
power output was raised to 171kW.
Revisions to the standard 5.0 litre
V8 also increased power output and
a high performance 195kW V8 was
also offered, before the VT Series II
introduction of a 5.7 litre Gen III V8.
The VT Commodore claimed more
than 15 major awards in 1997/1998,
among them the 1997 Wheels Car
of the Year and the 1997 Australian
Design Award. Several limited edition
VT models commemorated Holden’s
50th Anniversary in 1998.
POPULAR SONGS:
Men in Black (Will Smith), I’ll Be
Missing You (Puff Daddy & Faith
Evans), How Do I Live (Trisha
Yearwood), Bitch (Meredith Brooks),
How Come, How Long (Babyface).
POPULAR FILMS:
Conspiracy Theory (Mel Gibson,
Julia Roberts), Con Air (Nicolas Cage,
John Malkovich, John Cusack), Bean
(Rowan Atkinson), Absolute Power
(Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman, Ed
Harris), Austin Powers (Mike Myers,
Elizabeth Hurley).
1997 VT COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 3.8 litre ECOTEC V6 (147kW);
3.8 litre Supercharged V6 (171kW); 5.0
litre V8 (179kW); 5.0 litre V8 (195kW);
5.7 litre Gen III V8 (220kW).
Commodore S sedan, Commodore SS
sedan, Commodore Acclaim sedan,
Commodore Acclaim wagon, Berlina
sedan, Berlina wagon, Calais sedan.
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION (INCL
SALES TAX): $29,760 (V6 Executive
sedan), $31,600 (V6 Executive wagon),
$33,980 (Acclaim sedan), $39,800 (V6
Berlina sedan), $51,260 (V6 Calais
super-charged & V8 Calais).
IDENTIFICATION: All-new, larger body
with curved lines and distinctive wide
guards. Bold twin-nostril grille with
different insets for each model. High
tail with full-width decor panel.
92
93
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» YE Calibra
1990
» Holden rejoins the big car field with VQ Statesman and Caprice - with the first
independent rear suspension fitted to a locally designed and built large car.
» The Statesman-based SV90 is released by Holden Special Vehicles.
» The Holden Ute (VG) returns to a big media fanfare.
» Last of the Group A homologation specials - the VN Commodore SS Group A SV
is released.
» Astronaut Buzz Aldrin and JL Apollo
» 1990 - five millionth Holden
» Peter Brock returns to racing Holdens, competing in production and touring car
events in V6 and V8 Commodores.
» JL series Apollo is launched; Barina is updated - new MH series offers 3 and
5-door versions.
» Nova is face-lifted to become the LF series.
» Opel-sourced Calibra coupe is released - first Holden to offer ABS brakes.
» Holden Ute is updated; HSV unveils the VN Plus 6, S Wagon, VP Club Sport and SV91.
» HSV launches the VN Club Sport and VG Maloo Ute.
» Commodore again finishes the year as Australia’s best–seller.
» The five millionth Holden rolls down the production line.
1992
» A three-door MF Barina is released.
» Holden announces a three year roadside service package for Calais, Statesman,
Caprice and Calibra.
» Grice/Percy Commodore takes a hard-fought victory in the Bathurst enduro.
» Commodore is Australia’s top-selling car.
1991
» Total engine export earnings reach $1.9 billion, making Holden’s Engine
Company one of Australia’s foremost exporters of value-added goods.
» All new Holden passenger cars receive an extended 50,000km/24 month
warranty plus 100,000km/36 month powertrain coverage.
» Bathurst 1993 - Perkins/Hansford
» SB Barina Swing
Championship for the second successive year in his Spa-Holden Formula
Brabham open-wheeler.
» An all-new Holden Jackaroo goes on sale.
1993
» All-new JM Holden Apollo is released with a V6 option.
» Holden Special Vehicles celebrates its fifth year of operation with anniversary
editions of all models, launches VR Club Sport, Senator and Maloo Ute.
» Holden invests $100 million in plant and equipment to produce the VR
Commodore and becomes the first manufacturer to offer an safety airbag on a
locally built car.
» Perkins/Hansford VP Commodore wins Bathurst.
» Highly-specified Jackaroo Monterey V6 is launched.
» Calibras contest ‘94 Celebrity Challenge
» LG Nova
» Holden’s Engine Company exports its two millionth engine.
» The Holden V8 celebrates its 25th anniversary. More than 450,000 have been built.
» Commodore dominates the 1994 Australian Touring Car Championship.
» Calibra coupe range is upgraded and expanded; Calibra stars in 1994 Australian
F1 Grand Prix Celebrity Challenge.
» HSV releases VR GTS and VR Senator 215
» New-look LG Nova released.
1995
» 50th anniversary of the federal government’s approval for Holden to produce
Australia’s first locally manufactured car.
» HSV releases VP Senator, Senator 5000i, Commodore GTS models.
» $150 million state-of-the-art vehicle paint facility opens at the Elizabeth plant.
» HSV range based on the VS Commodore is released, adds a new entry level
model, the Manta, to established Club Sport, GTS, Senator, Statesman and
Maloo Ute range.
» Young motor sport sensation Mark Skaife wins the Australian Drivers
» SB Barina range launched.
» 4WD Frontera Sport is launched.
1994
94
95
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» JR Vectra
» 1998 Astra
» VT Middle East LHD export vehicle
» Perkins/Ingall Commodore takes Bathurst title.
1997
» HSV reveals limited edition GTS-R Commodore at Sydney Motor Show.
» Holden Vectra released. Although the first Vectras are imported from Europe,
future production is to take place at the Elizabeth plant.
» Producing 107,000 vehicles, the Elizabeth plant sets a new production record.
» Commemorative poster - Holden 50th Anniversary
» All-new Astra five-door compact launched and later collects nine major
1998 awards.
» Two-door Commodore Coupe concept car is the star of the Sydney Motor Show.
» Peter Brock announces his retirement from motor racing.
» HSV releases 10th anniversary Club Sport and XU6.
» ‘Little Big Van’- the Opel-sourced Combo light commercial - is released.
» Holden’s Engine Operations (HEO) produces its three millionth Family II fourcylinder engine.
» Australia-wide celebrations commemorate 50th anniversary of the launch of
the first Holden.
» Holden sponsors Grand Prix Celebrity Challenge at inaugural Melbourne F1
Grand Prix.
» HSV VT Manta, Club Sport, GTS, Senator Signature and Maloo Ute released.
» Export shipments of LHD Commodores begin.
» Holden announces sole automotive sponsorship of Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.
» Elizabeth plant achieves a production record of 120,337 vehicles.
» Perkins/Ingall Commodore takes out Bathurst 1000.
» Holden records best sales result in 20 years, leads passenger car market with
Commodore the best-seller.
1996
» Craig Lowndes, in a Commodore, becomes youngest driver to win the ATCC.
» All-new Astra launched into competitive small-medium segment of the
passenger car market.
» Lowndes/Murphy Commodore victorious at Bathurst.
1998
» Commodore records a best-ever sales year, regains top-selling title.
» VT Commodore wins 1997 Wheels Car of the Year award.
» Holden is first to offer side impact airbags in an Australian-made car.
» Local production of the Vectra sedans and wagon begins at Elizabeth.
1999
» New Holden Frontera offers V6 option.
» All-new WH Statesman and Caprice make their debut.
» Last Australian-built Holden V8 comes off the line.
» HSV releases VT II Senator Signature, SV99, Club Sport/R8 and Estate.
» Three-millionth Family II four-cylinder exported in July, destination Germany.
» Exports of LHD Statesman/Caprice models to the Middle East begin.
» VT Commodores finish 1-2-3 in the FAI 1000 at Bathurst.
» Highlighting its Sydney 2000 Olympics role, Holden releases four Olympic
edition models.
» Holden leads Australia’s automotive market; Commodore is top-seller for the
fourth consecutive year and the top-selling car of the decade.
96
97
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
2000 VX COMMODORE
Number one priorities when the VT made way for VX Commodore just before the
Sydney Olympics were safety and engineering refinements and styling changes that
freshened this hugely successful design while retaining its appeal.
The V6 engine utilised recalibrated
and more powerful electronics and
driveline and there was considerable
emphasis on feature upgrades.
VX Executive and Acclaim continued
with a bigger version of the twin port
grille, flanked by teardrop headlamps.
They had new bumper fascias, bodycoloured rear decor panel, transparent
tail lamps and oval reflectors.
Commodore S and SS had a lower,
more purposeful stance and bolder
frontal design, while Berlina and
Calais stood distinctly apart, courtesy
of a full width grille, rectangular
headlamps, slightly extended bumpers
and differing rear end treatment.
Headlamps utilised complex reflector
technology for improved low beam
spread, penetration and evenness.
All-new interiors emphasised soft-feel
luxury and colour-coded harmony.
Commodore SS received customised
colour finishes on instrument clusters
and metallised console fascias colour
keyed to complement exterior hues.
Steering wheel-mounted sound system
controls and CD player were standard
on all models and so was ABS - a first
for an Australian-produced family car.
For improved side impact protection,
centre pillars were redesigned, energyabsorbing foam installed inside the
doors, door trim profiles revised and
pull handles designed to break away
on impact.
Modifications to the engine,
driveshaft and suspension and
noise isolation measures made
VX smoother and quieter.
Suspension tweaks made it more
neutral in its balance with positive,
progressive turn in.
Engine power was increased slightly
in the standard V6 and Gen III V8
and clever engineering increased
V6 fuel efficiency. Supercharged
V6 availability extended to include
Executive and Acclaim auto sedans.
The Series II VX introduced Control-Link
IRS, which offered even greater stability,
control and handling precision. The
Holden Assist in-car communications
system was made optional on Calais.
2000 VX COMMODORE DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
ENGINES: 3.8 litre ECOTEC V6
(171kW); 5.7 litre Gen III V8 (225kW)
Who The Hell Are You (Madison
Avenue), I’m Outta Love (Anastacia),
Spinning Around (Kylie Minogue), Day
And Night (Billie), Breathless (The Corrs).
POPULAR FILMS:
Chopper (Eric Bana), X-Men (Hugh
Jackman, Patrick Stewart), High Fidelity
(John Cusack, Jack Black), The Patriot
(Mel Gibson, Heath Ledger), American
Psycho (Christian Bale, Jared Leto).
Commodore S sedan, Commodore SS
sedan, Commodore Acclaim sedan,
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION: (incl GST)
$28,900 (V6 Executive sedan), $30,680
(V6 Executive wagon), $34,530 (S
sedan), $35,130 (Acclaim sedan),
$38,260 (V6 Berlina sedan), $45,290
(SS sedan), $46,830 (V6 Calais),
$50,820 (V8 Calais).
DIMENSIONS: (Executive sedan)
IDENTIFICATION: As for VT but with
revised grille, bumpers, headlamps,
and tail lamps.
98
99
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
2002 VY COMMODORE
With its stronger ‘face’, more angular lines and sharper rear end detailing,
the updated VY offered a fresh take on Commodore’s award-winning styling themes.
All lines ran towards the strong
trapezoidal grille, dominated by a
chiselled lion symbol and bisected by
a sports bar on performance models.
A bolder, wider air intake reinforced
the Holden graphic design theme
recently introduced on the new
millennium Monaro.
Smart interior treatments were
highlighted by an all-new instrument
panel with a binnacle-style cluster
featuring multi-function digital
displays, new centre console and
steering wheel.
VY also benefited from the most
intensive vehicle engineering program
Holden had undertaken since the
development of the VT. Significant
advances in chassis dynamics, build
precision, powertrain and safety
performance offered a new measure
of refinement and improved drive
character - exemplified by a new
steering package which delivered
more positive feedback and improved
on-centre definition.
The High Output 235kW Gen III 5.7
litre V8 engine standard on SV8 and SS
delivered more power and torque and
its base note ‘burble’ came courtesy of
a new full-length twin exhaust system.
Occupant safety was enhanced by
standard fitment of passenger airbags
on all sedans and wagons, new
load-limiting seat belt retractors, reoptimised front airbags and structural
reinforcements which reduced the risk
of lower limb injury
Further standard features included
‘twilight sentinel’ automatic
headlamp control, headlamps off
programmable time delay, Blaupunkt
audio systems, road-speed sensitive
intermittent wipers. Berlina, Calais
and SS offered a six disc in-dash
CD player, and Rear Park Assist was
introduced on Calais.
VY Series II models added cruise
control, passenger seat lumbar
support, sunglasses holder and rear
reading lamps across the range and
introduced active front seat head
restraints on Acclaim and Calais
models, ‘memory’ seats and heated
exterior mirrors on Calais.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: September
POPULAR SONGS:
The Logical Song (Scooter); Objection/
Tango (Shakira); Cleanin’ Out My
Closet (Eminem); Two Wrongs/PJs
(Wyclef Jean); Gangster Lovin’ (Eve).
POPULAR FILMS:
XXX (Vin Diesel, Samuel L Jackson);
Insomnia (Al Pacino, Robin Williams);
The Sum Of All Fears (Ben Affleck,
Morgan Freeman); Bend It Like
Beckham (Parminder Nagra); Austin
Powers - Goldmember (Mike Myers,
Michael Caine).
2002 VY COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: : 3.8 litre ECOTEC V6
(171kW); 5.7 litre Gen III V8 (225kW,
235kW, 245kW).
Commodore S sedan, Commodore
SS sedan, Commodore SV8 sedan,
Commodore Acclaim sedan,
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION:
$30,880 (V6 Executive sedan), $33,570
(V6 Executive wagon), $37,050 (S
sedan), $37,510 (Acclaim sedan),
$39,410 (supercharged S sedan),
$39,730 (Acclaim wagon), $40,490 (SV8
sedan), $40,850 (V6 Berlina sedan),
$43,730 (V6 Berlina wagon), $45,440
(V8 Berlina sedan); $49,490 (SS sedan),
$48,250 (V6 Calais), $48,320 (V8 Berlina
wagon), $49,320 (supercharged V6
Calais),$52,840 (V8 Calais).
IDENTIFICATION: Revision of VX. New
‘family’ grille, squarer rear styling.
100
101
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
2004 VZ COMMODORE
The significantly upgraded VZ range represented the final iteration of the vehicle platform
introduced with the VT Commodore.
It was distinguished by sharper
design themes and a ‘twin spear’
sculpted bonnet, beneath which was a
completely new high-feature Alloytec
V6 engine, produced at Holden’s $400
million Global V6 plant.
More powerful, responsive and fuel
efficient than the outgoing ECOTEC
V6 and matched to new and improved
transmissions, the Alloytec V6
reinforced Commodore’s reputation
for driver’s car performance character.
Chassis dynamics were improved by
brake, suspension and steering system
upgrades across the range. All V8s
now had electronic throttle control
and evolutionary improvements to
engine management, transmission
and cooling systems.
Strong graphics – larger air intake
openings, new radiator grilles (with
the single sports bar now shared
by all models) – emphasised width
across the front. Headlamp design
was more compact and such cues as
specific bumper facias, mesh inserts
and chrome grille headers gave each
model an individual identity. An
SV6 performance model replaced
Commodore S.
The all-aluminium 3.6 litre Alloytec
operated with double overhead cams
and four valves per cylinder. It delivered
more peak power and more torque
across the rev range and produced
fewer emissions.
The high-performance 190kW Alloytec
190 engine specified on Calais and SV6
was linked to a premium five-speed
automatic transmission with paddle
shifters on the steering wheel; a new
six-speed manual was optional on SV6.
The Alloytec V6 introduced a new era
in chassis control systems and active
safety technology, with Acclaim and
Calais delivering electronic stability
program – a first for an Australian-built
car – electronic brake distribution,
brake assist and corner brake control.
Interior refinements included a new
centre stack, fresh trim fabrics and
patterns. Calais now offered leather
trim as standard.
MONTH OF LAUNCH: September
POPULAR SONGS:
She Will Be Loved (Maroon 5); Leave,
Get Out (Jojo); My Place (Nelly);
Broken (Seether featuring Amy Lee);
Scar (Missy Higgins); When The War
Is Over (Cosima).
POPULAR FILMS:
The Bourne Supremacy (Matt Damon,
Franka Potente, Julia Stiles); Dodgeball
(Vince Vaughn, Ben Stiller, Christine
Taylor); Shark Tale (Will Smith, Robert
De Niro, Renee Zellweger);
The Village (Joaquin Phoenix, Bryce
Dallas Howard, Adrien Brody);
Suddenly 30 (Jennifer Garner, Mike
Ruffalo, Judy Greer, Andy Serkis).
2004 VZ COMMODORE DATA
ENGINES: 3.6 litre Alloytec V6
(175kW); 3.6 litre Alloytec 190 V6
(190kW), 5.7 litre EFI Gen III V8
(235kW, 250kW).
sedan, Commodore Executive
wagon, Commodore Acclaim
sedan, Commodore Acclaim wagon,
Commodore SV6 sedan, Commodore
SS sedan, Commodore SV8
sedan,Berlina sedan, Berlina wagon,
Calais sedan.
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION: $33,160 (V6
Executive sedan), $35,150 (V6 Executive
wagon), $39,050 (Acclaim sedan),
$40,990 (Acclaim wagon), $38,990 (SV6
sedan), $41,990 (SV8 sedan), $50,990
(SS sedan ), $42,990 (Berlina V6 sedan),
$47,500 (Berlina V8 sedan), $45,830
(Berlina V6 wagon), $50,430 (Berlina
V8 wagon), $52,660 (Calais V6 sedan),
$57,360 (Calais V8 sedan).
IDENTIFICATION: ‘Twin spear’ bonnet,
revised grille, air intake, headlamps,
facia treatments.
102
103
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
2006 VE COMMODORE
The all new VE Commodore sedan represented the fourth generation of Australia’s best-selling
car range. It was the product of Australia’s first $1 billion car program and the most clean sheet
development project in almost 60 years of Holden vehicle production.
First example of a new General
Motors global rear wheel drive
architecture, VE offered striking
exterior and interior design,
performance, refinement, fit and
finish competitive with the world’s
best car brands.
Safety was a major factor. Electronic
Stability Program (ESP®)* was
made standard, all models could
be purchased with six airbags;
curtain airbags were available for
the first time**. A stiffer, stronger
body structure met real world crash
performance objectives.
Refinements to Alloytec V6 and
Gen IV V8 powertrains lifted power
and torque, improved take-off feel,
responsiveness and torque delivery.
Alloytec engines had new variable
intake manifolds and free-flowing
new exhausts. The 6.0L V8 270kW
peak power output was the highest
ever offered on a standard Holden.
An advanced Linear Control Suspension
system delivered outstanding ride
and handling without sacrificing ride
comfort. There were all new larger
brake systems, bigger wheels and tyres
across the range.
A new electrical interface and
expanded microprocessor capacity
provided improved safety and
infotainment capability. All models had
fully integrated satellite navigation
capability and were telematics
capable. Heating, ventilation and air
conditioning systems were totally new.
A new Omega nameplate replaced
Executive and Acclaim and a new
V Series concept highlighted top
range choices.
The beautifully proportioned VE
made a dramatic style statement,
characterised by a purposeful stance
and pronounced wheel arches.
Designers maximised interior space
without making the car significantly
larger. Individual models were more
differentiated, inside and out.
* ESP is a registered trademark of
DaimlerChrysler AG. **six airbags later
made standard, all models.
2006 VE COMMODORE DATA
POPULAR SONGS:
ENGINES: 3.6 litre Alloytec V6
(180kW); 3.6 litre High Output Alloytec
V6 (195kW), 3.6 litre LPG Alloytec V6
(175kW) 6.0 litre Gen IV V8 (270kW).
Hips Don’t Lie (Shakira Feat);
Promiscuous (Nelly Furtado); Who
Knew (Pink); This Time It’s For Real (The
Young Divas); Crazy (Gnarls Barkley).
POPULAR FILMS:
Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man’s
Chest (Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom,
Keira Knightley); Cars; Superman
Returns (Brandon Routh, Kate
Bosworth); The Break-Up (Jennifer
Aniston; Vince Vaughn).
TRANSMISSIONS: V6: four-speed
automatic, five-speed manual,
six-speed manual. V8: Six-speed
automatic, six-speed manual.
MODELS: Commodore Omega,
Commodore SV6, Commodore SS,
Commodore SS V, Berlina, Calais,
Calais V sedans.
PRICES AT INTRODUCTION:
$36,490 ( Omega with a/c); $39,990
(Berlina V6), $39,990 (SV6 sedan),
$44,990 (Berlina V8), $44,990 (SS V8),
$45,490 (Calais V6), $50,490 (Calais
V8), $51,990 (SS V V8), $53,490 (Calais
V V6), $58,490 (Calais V V8).
DIMENSIONS: (Omega)
IDENTIFICATION: All-new body, wide
stance accentuated by prominent
wheel arches, short overhangs,
stretched wheelbase. High belt line,
larger body-to-glass proportion, ‘hockey
stick’ C pillar graphic, trapezoidal grille,
large air intake, high decklid.
TOTAL NUMBER BUILT:
Still in production.
104
105
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» 2000 Olympics Torch Relay support
» Zafira compact wagon
» YG 4WD Cruze
» RA Rodeo
» VY One Tonner cab chassis
» Child restraint inspection
» TS Astra SRi Turbo
2000
» Holden wins Windscreens O’Brien safety award for side impact research.
» HSV GTS Coupe, VY models released.
» Holden One Tonner cab chassis is ‘re-born’.
» Holden supplies a 3500 vehicle fleet for Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, supports
torch relay.
» HSV releases Series II VX XU6, Club Sport/R8, Senator Signature, SV300,
Coupe GTO
» Skaife/Richards V8 Supercar wins Bathurst 1000; 7.0-litre Monaro wins
inaugural Bathurst 24-Hour Race.
» Third shift starts at Elizabeth plant.
» Side impact safety research project wins Engineering Excellence Award.
» New millennium Monaro sports coupe launched at the Sydney Motor Show.
» SSX crossover sports hatch concept revealed.
» Holden/CSIRO ECOmmodore hybrid-electric concept car is unveiled.
» XC Barina is named Wheels Car of the Year.
» Holden becomes strategic partner in GM Daewoo Auto and Technology.
» Astra sedan introduced; local production of Vectra sedans and wagons ceases.
» Holden and Kidsafe to conduct first-ever national child restraint safety
inspection program.
» Holden sets sales record for Australian carmaker, wins total market leadership
and Commodore is top seller for seventh consecutive year.
2003
» Plans announced for a new V6 engine plant at Fishermans Bend.
2002
» $200 million redevelopment of Holden’s Fishermans Bend precinct announced.
» Record production at Elizabeth (133,016 vehicles) and Fishermans Bend
(390,000 engines including the one-millionth V6) manufacturing plants.
» Cross 8 all wheel drive production prototype unveiled at Melbourne Motor Show.
» New generation Rodeo light commercial range introduced.
» Monaro wins Australian Design Award in Industrial Design category.
» Holden initiates free child seat inspection service.
» 4WD Holden Cruze, new Combo compact van launched
» New generation Vectra range, WK Caprice and Statesman make debuts.
» $2 billion capital expenditure program announced (2002-2006).
» Holden Innovation R&D centre opens.
» First major US export program announced - Monaro/Pontiac GTO coupes.
» Turbocharged Astra SRi and Convertible introduced.
» All-new VU Holden Ute released ;HSV launches VX XU6, Club Sport/R8, Senator
Signature, GTS.
» Commodore is Australia’s top-selling car for the fifth consecutive year.
2001
»A
ll-new XC Barina and Zafira compact wagon introduced.
»S
ix millionth Holden built at Elizabeth.
» Crewman four-door Ute, Adventra AWD crossover wagon launched.
» 50th anniversary of FJ Holden; 25th year of Commodore production
» $400 million Global V6 engine plant opens in Port Melbourne.
» Commodore tops passenger car market, posts record light commercial sales.
2004
» One Tonner-based SST custom pickup, Holden designed and V8-powered Elfin
sports cars unveiled.
» Holden and Monash University Accident Research Centre extend safety
research program; announce $1 million vehicle simulator upgrade.
» ‘Marilyn’ convertible Monaro engineering study unveiled, Holden concept
cars displayed.
» Holden Caprice named Saudi Arabia’s 2004 Car of the Year.
» Details of high feature locally produced Alloytec V6 engine released.
106
107
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» Astra Twin Top Convertible
» Holden airship
» Captiva SUV
» Sportwagon
» Last ECOTEC V6 engine produced at Fishermans Bend.
» Skaife/Kelly Commodore wins Bathurst 1000.
» WM Caprice and Statesman launched
» All-new VE Ute range launched.
» HSV VZ range released featuring LS2 6.0 litre 279kW V8.
» New Viva and Barina ranges launched; Efijy custom coupe, SX3 SUV
concept unveiled.
» $532 million upgrade completed at Elizabeth plant.
» Lang Lang proving ground reaches 50th anniversary.
» Holden airship flies maiden voyage.
» Holden Sportwagon makes Motor Show debut
» HSV E-Series range released.
» Commodore Australia’s best-selling car for 12th successive year.
» First VE Commodore and WM export models shipped to Middle East.
2008
» Captiva SUV, Astra TwinTop convertible and SRi hatch debut.
» 60th Anniversary Coupe 60 concept revealed at the Melbourne Motor show
in February.
» Holden and Saab Australia announced integration into a single business entity.
» All-new AH Astra hatch released; Torana TT36 hot hatch showcar unveiled.
» Murphy/ Kelly Commodore wins Bathurst 1000.
» Fifty years of Holden exports celebrated.
» Commodore tops passenger car market; Holden breaks single-year vehicle
export record.
» HSV SV6000 released.
» Four millionth Holden engine exported.
» Expanded GM global design role announced for Holden
» Global V6-engined Rodeo announced.
» Commodore Australia’s top selling car for tenth straight year.
2005
» GM Holden sets all-time vehicle export record.
» 40th anniversary of General Assembly Plant opening at Elizabeth.
2006
» One Tonner, Crewman Cross 6, Adventra V6 released.
» 6.0L Gen IV V8 engine, the most powerful standard Holden engine yet offered
at 260KW, replaces Gen III V8.
» New Holden HQ at 191 Salmon Street Port Melbourne officially opened.
» Company name changed to GM Holden Ltd, effective 1 June.
» Special edition CV8Z Monaro marks final chapter of Monaro production.
» Astra 3-door coupe and wagon; Tigra hardtop convertible released.
» Last Monaro produced auctioned for charity and fetches $187,600.
» Astra turbo diesel, five-door hatch and Barina sedan released; T2X coupe SUV
concept unveiled.
» Dual fuel Alloytec V6 engine released
» Commodore Australia’s best-selling car.
2007
» VE Commodore awarded 2006 Wheels Car of the Year.
» Mid-sized Epica sedan debuts.
» New export deal announced – SS Commodore to be sold in the US as Pontiac G8.
» In March, six airbags made standard across VE Commodore range. US export
plans announced for a Holden ute-based Pontiac G8 sport truck and a highperformance Pontiac G8 XP sedan. News that a new Holden Colorado light
commercial vehicle series would replace the Rodeo.
» GM Holden commemorated the May 1958 inception of its vehicle
manufacturing operation at Elizabeth.
» Diesel Captiva SUV released; Rodeo range upgraded.
» A timeframe was announced for the end of Family II engine production at
Fishermans Bend – during the final quarter of 2009.
» VE Commodore and WM Caprice win Australian Design Awards.
» The VE Sportwagon and Colorado LCV were released in July.
108
109
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HISTORY OF THE
HOLDEN SYMBOL
1928
1936
1948
1972
1994
The first Holden emblem was a life-sized wooden horse which stood above the entrance
of the Holden and Frost saddlery and carriage works in Adelaide, South Australia.
As an emblem, the Holden Lion relates
to the time when coach builders
engraved their company name or
trademark on the door sill, or on a
plate fixed to the instrument panel.
In the early 1920s Holden’s Motor
Body Builders used a large brass
plate embossed with a winged figure
representing industry against a
background of factory buildings.
In 1926 the company decided to
downsize the brass plate and emulate
the practice of Fisher Body in the USA,
which attached a neat replica of its
coach trademark to the lower part of
the cowl.
Because the existing emblem was
too detailed to be embossed on
a small plate, a new design was
commissioned to be based on the
Egyptian-style ‘Wembley Lion’,
symbol of London’s 1924-25 British
Empire Exhibition. Fashion themes of
the time, from clothes to furniture,
films and songs, were influenced by
Egyptian antiquity.
According to fable, the principle of
the wheel was suggested to primitive
man when observing a lion rolling a
stone. Thus inspired, the pre-eminent
Australian sculptor of the day, George
Rayner Hoff, created the ‘lion and stone’
sculpture, which was replicated in a
pressed metal plate that was fixed to
all bodies built by Holden’s Motor Body
Builders from 1928.
More than 75 years later the evolution
of the lion andstone symbol can be
traced through a series of badges
proudly worn by a cavalcade of cars,
some recognised by early GM model
enthusiasts but most dear to the
hearts of generations of Australians
since the 1948 advent of the FX or
48-125 Holden. (The chrome-winged
surround on the FX/FJ grille badge
was Cadillac-inspired.)
The classical Egyptian lion design
gave way in 1972 to a more modern
interpretation of the symbol, which
in turn was replaced in 1994 by
the powerful Holden brand we are
familiar with today.
» Rayner Hoff’s ‘Lion and Stone’ sculpture
110
» 2007 Chevrolet Volt Concept
100 YEARS OF GENERAL MOTORS 1908 - 2008
» 1912 Cadillac Touring
111
112
113
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
100 YEARS OF
GENERAL MOTORS
1908 - 2008
» 1901 Oldsmobile Curved Dash Runabout
Creation 1897 - 1909
At the turn of the 20th century there
were less than 8,000 cars in America –
some powered by steam or electricity,
some by petrol. Among them was the
first Oldsmobile, produced in 1897.
An unexpectedly large turnout at the
first New York Auto Show in 1900
showed the public’s fascination with
the automobile and over the next
few years hundreds of companies
would try to meet the demands of a
growing market.
The nucleus of the fledgling General
Motors was the Buick Motor Car
Company, formed in Detroit in 1902.
William Durant, “king of the carriage
makers”, later took control and oversaw
Buick’s rise to become the second
largest and most influential automobile
manufacturer in the country.
The General Motors Company was
incorporated in September 1908.
Early members of the GM family were
Buick, Oldsmobile, Cadillac, Oakland
(now Pontiac), Ewing, Marquette,
Welch, Scripps-Booth, Sheridan, and
Elmore, together with Rapid and
Reliance trucks.
Acceleration 1910 - 1929
An electric self-starter designed
by Charles F. “Boss” Kettering first
appeared on a 1912 Cadillac and
helped to popularise motoring by
doing away with the dangerous,
unpredictable hand crank. More
than any other development, the
electric self-starter is credited with
making motor cars more accessible
to a wider population.
Kettering joined GM in 1920 and
later became the Corporation’s
scientific mastermind, in charge
of its unparalleled research and
engineering programs.
The General Motors Company
officially became General Motors
Corporation in 1916 and during World
War I, for the first of four times in its
history, GM turned its facilities to the
production of war materials.
The addition of Chevrolet (1918),
Vauxhall (1925) and Opel (1929)
diversified product selection and
increased GM’s reach. During these
years GM added more than a dozen
new plants outside the US.
Alfred P. Sloan Jr. guided General
Motors from 1923 until 1956, first
as president and then as chairman.
Under his direction GM grew from a
firm that accounted for about 10 per
cent of new car sales in the US in 1923
to become the largest producer of cars
and trucks in the world.
GM’s new approach - “a car for
every purse and purpose” produced
different kinds of vehicles for
different customers.
The milestone 1927 Cadillac LaSalle,
designed by Harley Earl (GM Chief
designer until 1959) with curves
rather than sharp corners and a
long, low stance, helped people to
regard cars as far more than a mode
of transport.
» 1930 Cadillac Advertisement
» 1927 Cadillac LaSalle Series 303 Roadster
114
115
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
100 YEARS OF
GENERAL MOTORS
1908 - 2008
Emotion 1930 - 1959
Hard times and political change in
Europe brought uncertainty, but GM’s
commitment to innovation continued.
General Motors Holden’s was
formed in 1931 through a merger of
Holden’s Motor Body Builders and
GM Australia. The Pontiac division
replaced Oakland in 1932.
The industry’s first barrier impact
tests were conducted by GM in 1934
and GM ran the first rollover tests and
introduced a one-piece steel ‘turret
top’ roof in 1935.
General Motors Overseas Operations
was established in 1938 and covered
all vehicle manufacturing and
marketing outside North America.
» 1938 Buick Y-Job Concept Car
Hydra-matic, the industry’s
first completely automatic shift
transmission, was introduced on
1940 Oldsmobile models. By 1941,
GM accounted for 44 per cent of total
US sales, compared with 12 per cent
in 1921.
By 1942 it had turned 100 per cent
of its production to the war effort
and was to deliver defence material
valued at $12.3 billion during WWII.
The contributions ranged from ball
bearings to tanks, naval ships, fighter
planes, bombers, guns, cannons and
projectiles. GM alone turned out
13,000 planes and a quarter of all US
aircraft engines.
Car-making resumed after the war
and production rocketed. The ‘50s
decade was one of celebrations,
sales records, anniversaries, styling
innovation and engineering – this
last exemplified by the availability
of power steering on 1952 Cadillacs,
Oldsmobiles and Buicks.
» 1949 Buick Roadmaster Riviera
116
117
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
100 YEARS OF
GENERAL MOTORS
1908 - 2008
» 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupe
Revolution 1960 - 1979
The ‘60s and ‘70s were times of
challenge and change. Environmental
concerns, rising fuel prices and import
competition led to an unprecedented
downsizing across all GM vehicle lines.
The largest re-engineering program
in industry history began an era of
lighter, more aerodynamic and fuel
efficient vehicles.
Buick introduced the first American
V6 passenger car engine in 1961
and in1965 Oldsmobile released the
Toronado, the first front wheel drive
car to be built and sold in the US
since the ‘30s.
» 1964 Pontiac GTO
In 1966 GM introduced the industry’s
first energy absorbing steering column
and front seat shoulder belts were
fitted on 1967 models. The Safety
Research and Development Laboratory
and Vehicle Dynamics Test Area were
dedicated in 1968 at the Milford
Proving Ground.
GM played a role in the 1969 moon
mission by developing guidance and
navigation systems aboard the Apollo
11 spacecraft and later designed and
built the 1971 Apollo 15 lunar roving
vehicle – the first driven on the moon.
Also in 1971 GM pioneered the use
of engines that could run on low lead
or unleaded fuels, was first to offer
an airbag in a production car in 1973
and in 1974 introduced an important
step in emissions reduction with the
catalytic converter.
» 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado Coupe
» 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS
» 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
118
119
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
100 YEARS OF
GENERAL MOTORS
1908 - 2008
» 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans AM
Globalisation 1980 – 1999
In this era, with barriers to
communication crumbling and new
markets opening, GM re-invented
itself as an international operation
focused on innovation and growth and
implemented more change than in the
previous seven decades of its history.
It faced the challenges of
modernisation with a $40 billion, fiveyear capital spending program and in
1982 opened a complex in Zaragoza,
Spain – the largest production
expansion outside North America.
In 1982, GM began joint ventures
with two Japanese companies - Isuzu
Motors and the robotics systems
company Fujitsu Fanuc. In 1984 a
new frontier was forged with the
GM/Toyota joint venture (NUUMI)
to produce a new small car – first of
which was the 1985 Chevrolet Nova.
GM acquired Electronic Data Systems
(EDS) in 1984 and during the next
year added Saturn to its passenger
car divisions and purchased Hughes
Aircraft Company.
In 1986, GM continued to achieve
record sales and revenues, but facing
competitive and global economic
challenges, it took a tough stand on
cost reduction with plant closings,
reductions in salaried employees
worldwide and the phasing out of noncompetitive manufacturing operations.
In 1987, GM’s solar-powered
Sunraycer won the inaugural World
Solar Challenge in Australia.
Earnings in 1989 were the third
highest in GM history despite a
difficult sales environment. On the
global front, GM purchased 50 percent
of Saab Automobile AB of Sweden to
develop, manufacture and market
Saab passenger cars worldwide.
As GM moved into the ‘90s it
changed its approach to design and
manufacturing to eliminate waste and
sought new ways to bring products to
market faster. The Impact, an electric
car prototype designed for efficiency
and high performance was introduced
in 1990 and Saturn released high
value, fuel-efficient cars to compete
against small car imports.
The US automotive industry
sustained unparalleled losses in 1991
and GM faced acute challenges in
its primary North American market.
Plants were idled, work forces
reduced and assets sold.
In 1992 GM reorganised to streamline
its business practices and downsize
North American Operations (NAO).
Difficulties faced were in a sense an
overdue wake-up call. Success had
made it easy to ignore the significance
of change and the signs of potential
future problems, a situation legendary
leader Alfred Sloan warned against in
his 1963 memoirs.
1993 was a watershed year in GM’s
drive to return to profitability and
reassert industry leadership. NAO
achievements included US deliveries
of more than 4.7 million cars and
trucks, more than one million units
ahead of its closest competitor.
In 1994, GM achieved record net
income and all business sectors
reported strong sales and earnings.
GM sales beyond North America
exceeded 3 million units for the
first time in 1995, the same year it
entered a joint venture agreement
with the Shanghai Automotive
Industry Corporation.
The gm.com website launched in 1996
to provide an overview of product
lines (including the EV1 electric car
and Chevrolet S-10 electric pick-up
truck) and services. GM purchased the
Renaissance Center in Detroit for its
new global headquarters and officially
split from EDS.
In 1998, all operations worldwide
were brought together in a single
organisation, GM Automotive
Operations. The Opel Zafira-based
HydroGen 1 fuel cell vehicle was
developed and GM acquired the
HUMMER brand in 1999.
Innovation 2000 – present
The transition to a digital age and
a concern about the environment
became prevalent topics at the turn
of the 21st century As people became
more tech savvy, they also voiced their
concerns about sources of energy and
the state of the planet.
» 2009 Cadillac CTS
In 2001 GM chairman and CEO
Rick Wagoner pushed his global
technology and design teams to
completely ‘rethink, redesign and
reinvent the automobile’. Within
two years, GM had developed two
hydrogen fuel cell concept cars.
The 2002 AUTOnomy, first fuel
cell and by-wire concept designed
around a fuel cell propulsion system,
was followed by Hy-Wire, the first
driveable fuel cell and by-wire vehicle.
HydroGen3 fuel cell prototypes for
a fleet of hydrogen-based cars were
launched in 2003 and America’s first
hydrogen fuelling station - a GM/Shell
Hydrogen partnership – opened in 2004.
The Sequel fuel cell vehicle (300-mile
range) was released in 2005 and the
first hybrid E-85 Saab BioPower model
(now Europe’s best selling E-85 brand)
was released in 2005.
The 2006 Chevrolet Equinox is a fully
functional crossover vehicle, enabled
by GM’s fourth generation fuel cell
propulsion system
GM continues to create innovative
vehicles powered by fuel-efficient
petrol engines, biofuels and hybrid
systems. Among them is the Chevrolet
Volt concept, with a flexible electricity
drive system that allows it to run on
electricity and either E85 biodiesel
and gasoline fuels with an engine – or
hydrogen with a fuel cell.
The E-Flex fuel cell Cadillac Provoq
extends the E-Flex propulsion
system beyond small cars to a
new luxury crossover and a diesel
hybrid vehicle, the Precept concept,
achieves 3 litres/100kms. The 2008
Saab 9-X Hybrid concept has full
flex-fuel capability and is planned
for 2010 rollout.
Today General Motors is
revolutionising the way future
vehicles will be designed, built
and used. By applying advanced
technologies it aims to ensure
that tomorrow’s cars will be
safer, cleaner, more efficient
and minimised as a factor in the
environmental equation.
120
121
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HOME OF THE HOLDEN TURNS 50
The Holden brand name grew up and came of age in South Australia. More than
150 years later, as Holden Vehicle Operations at Elizabeth passes a 50-year milestone,
the family link remains as strong as ever.
While the locations and the output
may have changed – from saddles,
harnesses and carriages in central
Adelaide to Holdens, Pontiacs,
Chevrolets, Vauxhalls, etcetera, up
north at Elizabeth – Adelaide remains
a Holden city through and through.
And as we also commemorate the
60th anniversary of the launch of
the first Holden, the vital role played
by South Australians in its design,
development and manufacture is
celebrated and acknowledged.
1924-1957
In 1924, Holden Motor Body Builders
opened a new production plant in
the Adelaide suburb of Woodville and
became the sole supplier of bodies for
GM vehicles. Soon after, the GM plant
at Birkenhead (Port Adelaide) opened
for business.
» HD production - 1965
Following the formation of General
Motors-Holden’s in 1931 these
plants produced a huge variety
of models, among them Pontiac,
Cadillac, Buick, Oldsmobile,
Chevrolet, Vauxhall and Bedford.
During World War II, the GMH plants
at Woodville and Birkenhead made a
major contribution to the country’s
defence effort, producing aircraft,
army vehicles, boats, ordnance
and munitions.
The Woodville plant also played a key
role in the manufacture of bodies for
the famous 48-215 Holden, released
in 1948.
In 1956, as part of a nationwide plant
expansion plan, GMH purchased land
close to the satellite city of Elizabeth,
north of Adelaide.
» Foundations laid - 1958
» WM in production
» Holden Vehicle Operations, Elizabeth SA
1958 - 2008
Holden consolidated its
Manufacturing Engineering
operations at Elizabeth in 1976 and
inaugurated an $8 million plastics
plant there in 1981.
Production of Vectra sedans and
wagons concluded in 2000 and 2001
saw the six millionth Holden, a VX
Commodore SS, come off the line.
(The seven million milestone will be
reached in the second half of 2008.)
Manufacture of the all-new VE
Commodore sedan range began in
July 2006. It reflected a $532 million
investment in major upgrade works,
including a revamped general
assembly operation.
Holden announced a $2 billion, fiveyear vehicle and engine plant capacity
expansion program in 2002 and in 2003
a third shift commenced at Elizabeth,
employing 1000 extra personnel.
More than a third of all vehicles
currently built at Elizabeth in right
and left-hand drive configurations are
destined for export. Upcoming export
programs will see Holden Vehicle
Operations production expand to
44 models off seven variants.
Foundations for the new Elizabeth
plant were poured at the 290-acre
site, a former dairy farm, in May, 1958
and body hardware plant operations
began the next year.
A $3,000,000 vehicle body assembly
plant opened there in 1962, producing
Holden sedan, station sedan and
Vauxhall bodies to ‘body in white’
stage for shipment to GMH vehicle
assembly plants throughout Australia.
In 1963, the year Queen Elizabeth II
and Prince Philip visited the facility,
new body assembly, paint shop and
trim assembly plants begin operation.
A General Assembly Plant began
operations in 1965, producing the HD
model Holden. In August, assembly
operations covering Bedford, Chevrolet,
Vauxhall and Pontiac transferred from
the Birkenhead plant, which then closed.
A $12 million investment in facilities
upgrades to improve quality and
increase capacity was announced in
1987 and a second shift commenced
at Elizabeth that November.
In 1989, when production ceased
at Holden’s Dandenong (Vic) plant,
Elizabeth became the centre of Holden’s
entire vehicle manufacturing operation.
The five millionth Holden, a VN Calais,
was built there in August 1990.
Production of a second car line (Vectra
sedan and wagon) began in 1998.
Volume export shipments of left-hand
drive Commodores to the Middle East
began in the same year and Statesman/
Caprice-based exports followed in 1999.
The facility underwent a major
revamp in 2004 as part of Holden’s
capital expenditure project. A
restructure announcement in 2005
heralded a production rate revision
and cancellation of the third shift by
year’s end.
Holden-branded vehicles currently
produced at Elizabeth are the Caprice
and Statesman, Calais, Berlina, the
Commodore range of sedans, the
Sportwagon and the Ute.
122
123
40 YEARS OF THE HOLDEN MONARO
Photo Coventry Studios
124
125
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
40 YEARS OF
THE HOLDEN MONARO
1968 was a big year for Aussie drivers. If they were excited when the first Holden V8 arrived
in January, they came close to tap dancing in July when the sensationally stylish HK Holden
Monaro pillarless coupe made its first appearance.
Front page news all over the country,
the Monaro was described by Holden as
“ ...the biggest step we have taken
since the manufacture of the first
Holden in 1948 ...it is indeed the first
sports machine to be designed and
engineered in this country.”
There seemed to be a Monaro for
everyone and drivers tapped into the
excitement as the coupe’s instant
street credibility was soon backed by
unprecedented race and rally success.
Although forty years have passed
since this charismatic sports machine
first came ‘Out To Drive You Wild, the
Monaro legend lives on.
HK Monaro 1968-69
The impact of the first Monaro will
not be forgotten by anyone who
swivelled in the street to watch it go
by or pressed against the showroom
window for a longer look.
A product of a brand new Holden
design studio, the HK Monaro coupe
took a spectacular design direction
that was profoundly influenced by
automotive trends in the USA.
Its striking roofline was modelled on
the front drive Oldsmobile Toronado
coupe, which was the most sensational
US release in 1966 and remains a 20th
Century styling beacon. The Monaro
shared the same rear pillars, which
blend seamlessly into the rear quarter
panels, and an almost constant slope
from rear window to bootlid. Other
Toronado features, like the stylish rear
wheel arch blisters, also worked well on
the more compact Monaro.
Exterior GTS detailing included a tail
panel strip that replicated full-width
tail lights, offset bonnet and side
stripes, cooling slots in the front
guards, stainless steel full wheel
covers and grille blackouts. Inside,
there were new stitch patterns,
ventilated trim, an alloy-spoked
steering wheel and centre console.
There were no less than 19
Monaro engine and transmission
combinations, including the 161 (2.6),
186 (3.0) and 186S sixes as well as 307
(5.0) and 327 (5.4) Chevrolet V8 power.
The HK Monaro was 1968 Wheels Car
of the Year, and a 1968 debut one-two
finish in the Sandown 3-Hour (Roberts/
Watson) for the Monaro GTS 327 was
followed by first (McPhee/Mulholland),
second and third outright in the Hardie
Ferodo 500 at Bathurst, the forerunner
of many Holden enduro victories to
come at Mount Panorama.
HT Monaro 1969-70
Most dramatic change with this
upgrade was a new multi-louvred
plastic grille with a raised centre
section and Monaro black-outs. The
GTS had bold centre bonnet stripes
flanked by bonnet scoops, two-section
tail light, a blacked-out tail panel,
thicker side stripes and black sills.
Wild new colours included Sebring
Orange and Daytona Bronze. A full
set of circular instruments replaced
the console-mounted tacho and strip
speedo, More contoured bucket seats
had optional houndstooth check
cloth inserts.
The HT was first to get the Aussie V8,
initially as a 253 (4.2) The 308 (5.0)
version was introduced as Chevrolet
307 stocks ran out. Chevrolet’s new
350 (5.7) V8 arrived later.
» HK Monaro GTS
126
127
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
40 YEARS OF
THE HOLDEN MONARO
HG Monaro 1970-71
While the more subtle HG mesh
grille revived the simplicity of the first
Monaro, GTS blackouts highlighted the
bold new centre division and surrounds.
The deletion of sill and wheel arch
mouldings and black rocker panels
gave the HG GTS a meaner, sleeker
look. Subtle ‘sidewinder’ stripes that
swooped from the rear pillars to the
front highlighted the flow in the
original Monaro shape. New metallic
colours and the lack of bold bonnet
and boot-lid stripes reflected a clean
custom look and highlighted the 350’s
quad exhausts.
Engine choice was the same as for final
HT models. A new three-speed Trimatic
auto option replaced the Powerglide on
all models except the big 350.
Holden built extra compliance
into the Monaro rear suspension,
boosting GTS 350 long distance
touring capabilities and comfort. The
HG GTS 350 manual, with its crisp
driving feel and Salisbury limited slip
diff, stood as the definitive road car
for several Monaro generations.
HQ Monaro 1971-74
The HQ’s forward-reaching front,
flowing rear lines and pronounced
‘tumblehome’ behind each wheel
gave it a compact, ground-hugging
look, even though it was bigger
than previous models. The separate
recessed grille reflected Euro trends
while the bulging muscle lines above
each wheel arch, the rounded tail and
bumper-mounted rear lights were
straight Pontiac GTO muscle car.
HQ delivered new levels of structural
strength, rough road stability and
grip. Further features included a
more comprehensive safety package,
flow-through ventilation, a demisting
system, integrated air-conditioning, a
new flat dash and slender front pillars
for exceptional forward vision.
Holden sixes were also boosted in size
and there were hefty 10 bolt Salisbury
limited slip differential rear axles on all
V8 models. A new Aussie M21 4 speed
close-ratio gearbox could be ordered
with the local V8, the big Chevrolet
350 V8 scored a new Muncie 4 speed
manual and the 350 was fitted with a
Turbo-Hydramatic 400 auto shift.
Monaro colours came from the ‘flower
power’ palette. They included several
purples, pinks, lime and forest greens,
acid reds, bright blues, silver and gold.
As the HQ went through several phases
over its long model life, the Monaro GTS
coupe was upgraded in 1973 to coincide
with the release of the four door GTS.
HQ Monaro GTS 4 Door 1973-74
The first four door GTS Monaro featured
new contoured front seats, trimmed in
a herringbone pattern. Black SS bonnet
and boot patches were replaced by
louder GTS rally panels on the bonnet
and boot lid. They did the trick; there
was no mistaking the GTS Monaro four
door for any other of the 250,000 HQ
Holdens already on the road.
By this stage, the Monaro GTS 350 –
coupe or four door – became a rarer
beast as more Australian drivers
opted for the home-grown 308 V8.
The final four door HQ Monaro GTS
350 examples still made a fabulous
farewell to the Chevrolet small block
V8 with Salisbury rear axle, Muncie
four speed and 70 series radials.
» HQ Monaro GTS 4 Door
128
129
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
40 YEARS OF
THE HOLDEN MONARO
» HX LE Coupe
HJ Monaro Coupe and 4 Door
1974-76
As a rush of new European models
entered the market and Australians
were presented with a wider range
of choices in general, the HJ Monaro
upgrade had to satisfy a more
demanding enthusiast buyer.
» HJ Monaro GTS Coupe
The GTS offered extra comfort, a sports
instrument panel of its own and greater
emphasis on body detailing to further
distinguish it from other models.
Beefier HJ styling was matched by extrastrength bumpers. The four-headlight
Monaro LS coupe became the new entry
level Monaro and the GTS continued as
a single headlight coupe or four door
sedan. All HJ Monaro coupes retained
HQ rear styling.
More imposing than its predecessor, the
four door GTS featured a blacked-out
grille, bigger wraparound rear lights,
more aggressive side vents and decals.
The first factory front and rear spoiler
options gave the GTS real presence, the
deep rear spoiler and new tail lights
in particular bolstering its sloping
boot line. As the Chevrolet 350 was
de-tuned to meet US anti-pollution
legislation, it no longer made sense as a
premium performance option. Instead,
Holden boosted the compression
ratio of the local 308 to close the
performance gap. The automatic 308
gained the Turbo-Hydramatic 400 from
the previous GTS 350.
HX Monaro GTS 4 Door 1976
The HX arrived in July 1976 as the
Australian automotive industry
concentrated on meeting new antipollution requirements.
There was no Monaro coupe in the
new HX line-up, but the name was
emblazoned on a single, extroverted
GTS four door. Its bright colours, large
GTS decals, colour-keyed mirror and
bumpers, integrated body-coloured
spoiler options and optional bonnet
black-out made it the most distinctive
of all four door Monaros.
A substantial, long distance grand
tourer, it retained the longevity and
built-in toughness of the HQ series
while adding greater comfort and
extra appointments. These included
a new multi-function column stalk
that replaced the floor-mounted
dipswitch, controlling headlight high/
low beam as well as windscreen
wipers and washers.
HX LE 1976
This final coupe was exceptional
and exclusive enough to ensure that
the original Monaro concept had
an appropriate send-off. Although
the limited edition LE (580 units –
» HZ GTS 4 Door
produced at Sydney’s Pagewood plant)
did not carry the Monaro nameplate,
Holden fans regard it as a true
member of the breed.
The LE appeared with gold pin-striping
and lettering over metallic crimson
and sported unique gold-finished
14x7-inch polycast wheels. It came
with a 308, Turbo-Hydramatic and
Salisbury limited slip differential only.
It featured the four headlight (quartz
halogen) HX Premier front and
integrated, colour-keyed front and
rear spoilers. The interior combined
GTS features with a walnut finish dash
fascia and centre console, crushed
velour and cloth trim. Equipment
included power windows, power
steering, power aerial, integrated air
conditioning, heated rear window,
quadraphonic eight track cartridge
player and tinted windows.
HZ GTS 4 Door 1977
Like the LE coupe, the HZ GTS 4-door
did not wear a Monaro badge.
The HZ brought remarkable
advances in ride and handling with
the introduction of Radial Tuned
Suspension, delivering a Holden that
tamed local road conditions better
than any before it.
Radial Tuned Suspension had its
biggest impact on the GTS, which with
a mesh grille, subtle body stripes and
detailing on optioned-up versions,
revived aspects of the HG Monaro GTS.
A four-headlight nose, body colour
front and rear spoilers and bumpers
and sports wheels also helped to make
it more of a stand-alone package in the
Monaro tradition.
The GTS came standard as a 4.2 V8,
but you could add the 5.0 litre, power
steering, plaid cloth seats, limited
slip diff, electric windows and airconditioning. Rear disc brakes were
standard, seven inch polycast wheels
or spoked wire wheels were optional.
The HZ GTS was ranked by many
as Australia’s premier performance
car, a position that was consolidated
in May 1978 when the 5.0 litre V8
became standard.
130
131
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
40 YEARS OF
THE HOLDEN MONARO
» VZ Monaro CV8Z
New Millennium Monaro
1998 - 2005
Coupe Concept
The new millennium Monaro was
sensationally unveiled as an unnamed ‘coupe concept’ at the Sydney
International Motor Show in 1998.
The striking two-door sports coupe
was finished in blue/black, with a
cobalt leather trimmed interior. It had
a 2+2 seating configuration and was
99mm shorter than the Commodore
sedan. It was also appreciably lower
and in profile showed off accentuated
body curves, a raked roofline,
extended door, elongated glass areas
and a stylishly abbreviated tail.
1999
Holden announced that a coupe
model was now an integral part of
the company’s product planning.
V2 Monaro 2001
The coupe made the transition from
concept to Monaro reality in just
22 months and was shown as a
production vehicle at the 2001 Sydney
International Motor Show before
being sent to showrooms.
A true four-seater sports machine, it
was distinguished by sleek, expressive
styling, a vibrant colour palette
matched to individually tailored
interior finishes, innovative seating,
leading safety technology and luxury
sports car vehicle dynamics.
The product of a $60 million
investment, it was designed and
validated ‘virtually’, using Simultaneous
Math Based Process technology, which
considerably reduced turn-around time
and expense.
Two variants, CV8 and CV6, offered
Gen III V8 and Supercharged V6
performance respectively. Both had
driver, passenger and side airbags,
anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and
traction control. Leather trim was
standard, contoured front seats were
eight-way power adjustable and an
electric slide, fold-forward system
allowed ready access to rear seats.
The structural rigidity of the coupe body
and inherent stability of its lowered
stance supported the Monaro’s supple
ride quality and solid on-road feel.
Monaro Series II 2002
The updated Series II version offered
fresh interior styling treatments: a
new instrument panel with binnaclestyle clusters and multi-function
digital displays and a new steering
wheel design. In addition, body
structure refinements combined
with powertrain improvements to
offer better-than-ever build precision,
performance and safety.
2003
A special edition Monaro CV8-R
offered additional features and added
value. The Series III CV8 Monaro,
powered by a new high-output GEN
III 5.7 litre V8 engine, produced peak
power of 245kW @ 5,600rpm. The CV6
model was discontinued.
HSV displayed its Monaro-based
Coupe 4 concept at the 2003 Sydney
Motor Show. Powered by HSV’s high
output 5.7 litre 270kW LS1 V8, it was
Australia’s first locally produced all
wheel drive coupe.
The Monaro-based Chevrolet SS
Lumina Coupe (LHD) was launched in
the Middle East.
2004
A Vauxhall Monaro (RHD) based on
the HSV GTO was launched in the
UK in March. The British embraced
the concept of an affordable, high
output Aussie coupe along with all
the Australian jokes they could find.
Notably, Top Gear named Monaro
Best Muscle Car for 2005 with TV
presenter Jeremy Clarkson declaring
his love for the car.
The VZ Monaro, latest edition of
Australia’s most popular sports car,
boasted the most substantial upgrade
since its debut.
Its 5.7 litre 260kW Gen III V8
developed 500 Nm of peak torque, on
call over a wider rev range. Powertrain
refinements delivered a more forceful
launch feel, more mid-range torque
and a sharper sports character,
balanced by an upgraded braking
system. The performance boost was
advertised by a base note V8 burble,
broadcast via big-bore 95 millimetre
dual exhausts.
Its muscular new look was pointed
up by aggressive styling cues such as
twin bonnet scoops, strong front facia
graphics and an exclusive vivid blue
exterior finish called Turismo.
Last Hurrah - 2005
Australia’s undisputed 21st Century
sports car hero and international
ambassador, the Holden Monaro was
farewelled late in 2005.
A special edition CV8Z model marked
the final chapter in a remarkable
success story. The modern Monaro
beat all comers as the nation’s best
selling sports car.
The coupe was also an international
car, selling in the United States, United
Kingdom, the Middle East and New
Zealand under various brands and
appearing in movies and television
series. It wore four GM brands on four
continents and sold almost six times
as many cars as were first planned. Of
more than 47,000 coupes built, about
three-quarters were exported.
CV8-Z declared its presence with an
all-new orange-based metallic colour
called Fusion. It had a Holden By
Design sunroof, black bonnet scoop
accents, machined and embossed 18inch five-spoke alloy wheels, modified
rear lamps and gunmetal chrome
CV8-Z badging.
132
133
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
STATESMAN AND CAPRICE:
FLAGSHIPS OF THE FLEET
The first long-wheelbase Holden luxury cruisers – the Statesman Custom and Statesman De
Ville - were launched in July 1971 as part of the landmark HQ Series. The Caprice nameplate,
synonymous today with top-of-the range prestige status and spectacular global sales success,
dates from 1974.
HQ Series 1971 -1974
The all-new Statesman was built
on the 114-inch (2895mm) wagon
wheelbase and set apart by a twopiece grille and high wrap-around tail
lamps. Buyers could opt for one of
three V8 engine choices or six-cylinder
performance. The top-range Statesman
De Ville had bold styling cues, a black
vinyl roof, reclining bucket seats,
padded steering wheel, variable ratio
power steering and a 308 cubic inch V8
with Trimatic transmission.
HQ Statesman De Ville
price at release: $4660
HJ Series 1974-1976
The Caprice nameplate was
established with this series in
November 1974. The V8 Statesman
Caprice and Statesman De Ville had a
vertical grille, with chrome over-riders
for Caprice, modified rear quarter
panels, new boot lid and tail lamps.
Transmission was three-speed TurboHydramatic, brake system was self
adjusting rear hydraulic drums, power
assisted front discs. Features included
air conditioning, imported leather
trim, laminated windscreen, heated
rear window, power windows and
intermittent wiper control.
HJ Statesman Caprice
price at release: $12,400
HX Series 1976-1977
The HX Statesman De Ville and
Statesman Caprice were further
refined and offered upgraded
equipment. Grilles went back to the
horizontal, there were new wheel
covers, more substantial bodyside
mouldings. Sole powerplant was
the 5.0 litre V8. Statesman Caprice
introduced Delco anti-lock rear drum
brakes and central locking.
HX Statesman Caprice
HZ Series 1977-1980
There were three V8 variants in the HZ
range: Statesman De Ville, Statesman
Caprice and a limited edition Statesman
SL/E (1979). Design changes included
a bolder grille; instrument facias with
rosewood and walnut woodgrain
finishes. Leather seat trim came
standard on Caprice, De Ville had air
conditioning, AM/FM radio and central
locking. All had new Radial Tuned
Suspension and four-wheel disc brakes.
HZ Statesman Caprice
WB Series 1980-1985
Holden discontinued mainstream
sedans and wagons following the
VB Commodore introduction but
continued production of Statesman
De Ville and Statesman Caprice
models. WB series sheet metal was
all new except for front doors and
engine hood and the design featured
a ‘sixth’ window. Interiors received
a major re-design, with new dash
facia, instruments and seating. Series
II models (1983) brought upgraded
equipment, including a digital radio/
cassette, electric mirrors and trip
computer for Caprice. Powerplants
were XT5 sixes and V8s, the Blue
engines released with VC Commodore.
WB Statesman Caprice
1985 – 1989
Statesman/Caprice models were
phased out of production early in
1985. There were no long wheelbase
sedans produced until after the
VN Commodore, released in 1988,
provided suitable base architecture.
» WB Statesman Caprice
134
135
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
VQ Series 1990 – 1991
Holden’s new-generation V8 flagships,
now simply called Statesman and
Caprice, had a 2826mm wheelbase
stretched 4mm over the VN wagon.
Styling differentiation included a
grille integrated into the engine hood,
new front fascia and ‘all glass’ C
pillar treatment. The VQ was the first
locally manufactured large car to offer
independent rear suspension. Caprice
was the most expensive Holden to
date, due in part to a new luxury car
sales tax. Equipment listings included
climate control air conditioning,
power steering, power windows and
multi-speaker sound systems.
VQ Statesman
price at release: $39,950;
Caprice price at release: $56,650
VQ Series II 1991 – 1994
Upgrades included new bumper
fascias, gas bonnet struts, new
instrument graphics and seat belt
height adjusters. ABS was standard
on Caprice, optional on Statesman.
Statesman could be optioned with
a front bench seat and column auto
shift, as well as a 3.8 litre V6. Further
additions were speed-sensitive power
steering, power-adjustable front seats
with memory, rear spoiler, 10-stack
CD player and leather-wrap steering
wheels. A 180kW HSV V8 was optional.
Interiors were plusher, with all-new
dash facia, instrument cluster and
switch gear and steering-wheel
mounted audio controls. Suspension
geometry was revised, brakes
upgraded, electronic four-speed auto
transmission introduced.
VQII Statesman V6
Caprice price at release $59,390
There were three versions in this
series and limited edition models
included Greg Norman Statesman
International and 50th Anniversary
specials. Series I Statesman was
awarded “Best Luxury Car under
$50,000” by the NRMA and RACV.
The ECOTEC V6 powerplant was
supplanted at Series II (1996) by a
165Kw Supercharged V6, optional on
both models.
VR Series 1994 – 1995
The extensively upgraded VR
Statesman and Caprice were
equipped with driver’s side airbags.
Front seatbelt webbing clamps and
centre rear lap/sash belt were among
other safety-related additions.
VR Statesman V6
Caprice V6 price at release $58,750
VS Series 1995 – 1999
VS Caprice V8
price at release:$65,310
WH Series 1999 – 2003
The VT-based WH Statesman and
Caprice sat on an extended 2939mm
wheelbase, boasted all-new exterior
and interior design and significant
engineering advancements. The
series introduced the Generation III
5.7 litre alloy V8 and was the first
specifically designed for LHD export.
Suspension systems had standard
rear self-levelling; traction control was
standard along with driver, passenger
and side impact airbags. Added items
were cornering lamps, approach and
exit lamps, heated exterior mirrors
and remote deadlock control.
WH Statesman Supercharged V6
Caprice V8 $69,920
» 1990 VQ Series
136
137
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
WK Series 2003 - 2004
WL Series 2004 – 2006
WM Series 2006
The two flagships were clearly
differentiated as a Euro sports
character was created for Caprice and
a more formal character retained for
Statesman. Caprice had a high-output
245kW V8, 17-inch alloys and twin
screen DVD system. Styling changes
included a fresh rear quarter design,
new sixth window shape, engine
hood and decklid, exclusive projector
headlamps. There was new seating,
new cockpit design, a multifunction
digital display, six-disc in dash CD and
rear park assist was standard.
Upgrades included a highperformance 3.6 litre Alloytec 190
V6 engine with five-speed auto
transmission and Active Select and the
a high output 250kW V8 on Caprice.
ESP® was standard on Alloytecpowered models, complemented
by corner brake control, electronic
brake assist and electronic brakeforce
distribution. Both offered LED tail
lamp technology, a first for a locallybuilt vehicle. Caprice was equipped
with front park assist and a tyre
pressure monitoring system.
Confident, global designs, the new
generation WM Statesman and
Caprice were more distinctively styled
than ever. Their powerful proportions
were characterised by a stretched
silhouette, a wide stance and flared
wheel arches. Exclusive major interior
design aspects included differently
contoured twin-stitched leather
seating for each model.
WK Statesman ECOTEC V6
Caprice V8 $72,990
WL Statesman V6
Caprice V8 $74,390
DaimlerChrysler AG.
Safety technologies benchmarked
against leading luxury brands and
major engineering programs delivered
a stiffer body structure and vastly
increased advanced strength steel
usage. New Linear Control Suspension
increased primary ride control
attributes and isolation qualities;
engine choices were Gen IV 6.0 litre
270kW V8 and Alloytec High Output
3.6 195kW litre V6.
Equipment included visual front
and rear park assist, auto rainsensing flat blade wipers, Bluetooth
mobile phone connectivity, Tri-zone
electronic climate control, premium
audio systems. Caprice offered BiXenon headlamp technology, 18”
wheels, three-screen DVD and tyre
pressure monitor.
WM Statesman V6
Caprice V8 $69,990
The major market for Holden’s long
wheelbase cars is the Middle East.
Since 1999, Holden has shipped more
than 97,000 long wheelbase sedans
to export markets in the Middle East,
China, South Korea and New Zealand.
In addition, the Holden Statesman
and Caprice have been the bestselling locally built prestige vehicles
each year since 2000.
» WM Holden Caprice
138
139
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
THE HOLDEN UTE: GENUINE
AUSSIE AUTOMOTIVE ICON
Our society has changed dramatically since the first Holden Ute hit the road in 1951.
The boomer babies of the era are grandparents and Generations X, Y and Z march to
the beat of different drums.
It’s reassuring to know that the more
some things change the more others
remain the same, because through it
all the lure of the Ute has remained
as strong as ever. It prevails as an
enduring symbol of hard work and a
laidback lifestyle, regarded by many as a
definition of the essential Australia.
Up-shifting through almost 60
years of continuous development,
the Holden Ute has evolved in step
with our social history, moving
from workhorse to show pony, from
tradesman’s transport to two-door
sports machine with a practical edge.
The utility concept is an Australian
original and it’s been with us in one
form or another for more than 80 years.
Our romance with the coupe utility (to
qualify for the description, it should
be based on a sedan equivalent and
have a load bed integral with the
cabin), began in the mid-1930s, when
several manufacturers made their
own versions.
General Motors-Holden’s built coupe
ute bodies for Bedford, Chevrolet
and Vauxhall. It also constructed
Chevrolet utes to Army specifications
as part of a mammoth World War II
manufacturing effort.
With primary industry prospering
and demand for the coupe utility
expanding, it was only a matter of time
before the first Holden Ute, derived
directly from Australia’s Own Car,
made its entrance in January 1951.
They called it the 50-2106 Coupe
Utility – and it was destined to blow all
of its rivals, Chevrolets and Vauxhalls
included, into the weeds.
The formula was right from the word
go: affordable, versatile, good-looking,
rugged and durable.
Just like the 48-215, the new Holden
Ute could cruise all day at 65mph (105
km/h), take steep hills in its stride
and return remarkable overall fuel
economy figures of 30 miles per gallon
(9.4l/100km). Not only that, buyers
discovered, you could use it to round
up the sheep.
Successive models, from the muchloved FJ onwards, went on to make
their own colourful and characterfilled contributions to the enduring
legend that is the Holden Ute.
Today’s Holden Ute remains linked
to its heritage by the lion emblem
it proudly displays and by the same
attributes of versatility, reliability and
great driveability.
» 50-2106 Coupe Utility
140
141
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1951 50-2106 (FX) Ute
A go-anywhere workhorse, the first
Holden Ute was light, strong and
surprisingly fast. Cheaper than its
rivals, it was the answer to a farmer’s
prayer and an urban businessman’s as
well. A 7000-strong waiting list built
up for it before the end of the first year.
The brochure pointed out that a high
power-to-weight ratio meant drivers
could “ feel the punch and power of
that 6-cyl., 21h.p. engine that carries
your loads over the toughest hills...gives
you performance challenging anything
on the road...” The clincher? “Holden
is designed for Australia and built in
Australia... The result is a vehicle you will
be proud to own.”
1953 FJ Ute
Beloved of restorers, modifiers and
street machiners, the FJ Ute was a
face-lifted version of the 50-1206.
Mechanically almost identical (a
new design differential and axles
were added in ’54), it sported that
unmistakable, era-defining chrome
grille and stylish monogrammed
hubcaps. There was a bigger choice
of exterior colours and the luxury of a
pull-down sunvisor on the passenger
side. The FJ Ute benefited from the
introduction of tubeless tyres in early
’56 and from mid-1956 was fitted
with the FE’s more powerful engine.
1957 FE Ute
The ‘new look’ FE Ute had a lower and
sleeker Australian-designed body,
although its engine, gearbox and
differential were basically unchanged.
It had wrap-around tail/stop lights,
rear ‘bumperettes’ and a spare tyre
accessible via a fold-down rear flap.
Like the sedan, it featured the first
one-piece curved windscreen, allnew dashboard, improved steering,
better ride and handling, 13” wheels,
upgraded brakes and a 12-volt
electrical system. Panel van variants
were now based on the station wagon.
1958 FC Ute
A part of the golden Holden era when
domestic sales topped 50 per cent
of the market, the FC Ute continued
to deliver the winning formula
of performance, durability and
unbeatable value for money. A minor
facelift and upgrade with largely
identical specifications – distinguished
by the letters H-O-L-D-E-N across the
front of the bonnet, replacing the FE’s
winged emblem – the FC delivered a
smoother level of performance.
1960 FB Ute
The American-influenced FB ushered
in a fresh new body design matched to
the FE/FC floor pan and mechanicals.
It had a wraparound windscreen, full
width grille, lowered bonnet line and
lower load height, more headroom
and a deep-dished steering wheel, but
missed out on the FB sedan’s finned,
classically chrome tail light assembly as
it retained the previous model Ute’s rear
end styling. Mechanical improvements
included an engine upgrade that
delivered more power and torque.
1961 EK Ute
While EK introduced Holden’s first
automatic transmission and electric
wipers, commercial versions like the
basically unchanged Ute and its panel
van variant remained steadfastly
three-speed manual (column shift, no
synchro on first). Parking lights were
incorporated in the top grille bar, a
new air intake located forward of the
windscreen. Total sales of the Holden
Coupe Utility climbed past 150,000 in
this era.
» FJ
» FE
1962 EJ Ute
179 engine and manual transmission
from early 1964. From early 1965, EH
Utes were fitted with upgraded HD
model brakes and HD wheel trims.
Released six months after the all-new
sedans, the EJ was advertised as the
“ Holden Half Ton Utility. Right out
ahead in good looks …the only utility
specifically designed for Australia .. full
headroom in the cabin for three sixfooters...” It was the first Ute to offer
automatic transmission and seat belt
anchorages. While the original Grey
engine and drivetrain were carried
over, it benefited from a major brake
upgrade and significantly improved
ride and handling.
1963 EH Ute
The Ute variant of the fastest-ever
selling Holden retained the EJ rear end
but was powered by new six-cylinder
engines. The standard 149 Red
engine and bigger 179 were 33 per
cent and 53 per cent more powerful
respectively and more fuel efficient.
Buyers could order their Ute with the
1965 HD Ute
The HD Ute had a completely new
body and was the largest yet. Its load
compartment was longer and broader,
the rear tailgate opening wider. Like the
sedans, it had curved side glass, wider
seating and a new dash facia design.
It used the new sedan tail lamps and
wraparound rear fenders. There was a
choice of three engines, including the
powerful twin carburettor X2 version
of the 179; new two-speed Powerglide
auto transmissions, an alternator, new
ball joint front suspension and optional
front disc brakes.
1966 HR Holden Ute
The HR had softer front end styling,
parking lights located in the grille and
» EH
a new ‘Magic Mirror’ colour range.
Rear styling was unchanged, except
for a nameplate scripted on the
tailgate. Engine capacities increased
to 161 and 186 cubic inches, the
smoother 186S replaced the X2; a
four-speed, all-synchro manual and
limited slip diff were optional. There
was soft-feel seating in Sadlon vinyl,
optional power steering, power disc
brakes. A safety upgrade delivered
seat belts, padded sunvisors, exterior
mirror, shatterproof interior rear
view mirror, reversing lights and
windscreen washers.
1968 HK Ute
Advertised as ‘Bigger all round!’
and ‘Stronger all through!, the New
Generation HK Ute offered more load
capacity and a longer, wider, deeper
load area. Available in Belmont and
Kingswood versions, it also had a
longer wheelbase, wider track, bigger
brakes, bigger wheels and stronger
suspension. Buyers could choose
between three six-cylinder engines and
an imported 5-litre V8. Among options
were bucket seats, air conditioning,
deluxe heater/demister, ‘Superlift’ rear
shocks, limited slip diff, heavy duty
radiator, battery and air cleaner.
1969 HT Ute
The face-lifted HT Belmont and
Kingswood Utes boasted ‘48 big
changes for the better’. They were
distinguished by a new plastic
grille, revised tail light cluster, new
instrument panel with built in
tachometer option. Improved ride
and handling and a quieter ride came
courtesy of a wider track, new rubber
suspension bushings, new sub-frame
suspension and engine mounting
and lighter steering. Engine choices
included Australian V8s and manuals
had synchromesh on all forward gears.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1970 HG Ute
Final version of the big-selling HK/HT
body style, the HG had a finer mesh
grille (chrome for the Kingswood)
with a centrally mounted Holden lion
symbol and was the last with quarter
vents on the side windows. It offered
five Australian-built engines and the
option of a new locally built Trimatic
3-speed automatic. V8s had improved
disc brakes. Post-July ’71 Utes had more
powerful HQ-type 173 and 202 engines.
1971 HQ Ute
The totally new HQ Belmont and
Kingswood Utes were built on the
longer (114”) wagon and Statesman
wheelbase and were the first to have
a full length chassis frame and steel
load floor. They delivered lowerprofile styling, more load capacity
and the full raft of HQ engineering
innovations, while retaining rugged
leaf spring rear suspension.
A Sandman Ute, with mainly SSderived interior and exterior features,
was introduced in January 1974.
1974 HJ Ute
The HJ range represented a major
refinement of the long-running HQ
series. Front end styling was totally
new, the grille (with new Holden lion
logo) more pronounced, bumpers
more protruding. Rear styling was
carried over. Upgraded interiors
featured full foam seating, a new dash
with revised two-outlet ventilation
system and strip-style speedo. All
engines had cable-type throttle
control and passenger ride suspension
was optional.
1976 HX Ute
A major change with this series was
the introduction of low-emission
versions of each engine to meet new
Australian Design Rule 27A.
For the first time, drivers had fingertip
control of wipers, washers, indicators
and headlight beam via a stalk
mounted on the steering column.
The Sandman ‘recreational’ Ute and
its panel van variant, well promoted
and with plenty of appeal for younger
Holden buyers, sold very well.
1977 HZ Ute
The fourth revision of the body style
that began with HQ, this range was
distinguished mainly by its egg crate
grille with headlights separate, new
badging and hubcaps. It had Radial
Tuned Suspension (RTS) for improved
handling, and better brakes. These
and modifications – such as up-rated
springs and shock absorbers, rear
anti-rollbars and upgraded front bars
– gave it a sportier feel. Sandman Ute
had a 4.2 litre V8, power steering and
trip meter as standard.
1980 WB Ute
The last of this line, the WB series Utes
had new front panels, grille, headlight
treatment and distinctive large tail
light clusters. Initially, the Kingswood
had a unique grille and headlamps,
but later in 1980 all commercials
shared it.
GTS-type instruments were optional
following the demise of Sandman;
new-style bucket seats standard on
the Kingswood. Powerplants were
the 3.3 litre six and optional 4.2 litre
V8 Blue engines introduced earlier
with VB Commodore. WB Utes ceased
production late in 1984.
» HX Kingswood Ute
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1990 VG Ute
Product of a $10 million budget and
three years of development by a small
team of dedicated Holden designers
and engineers, the VG Ute was given a
hero’s welcome. Styling, mechanicals
and wagon wheelbase were VN
Commodore-derived. Features included
a bucket/bench seat, four-wheel
discs, coil springs all round and power
steering. The S model had bucket
seats, limited slip diff, tachometer,
15” wheels, custom tonneau cover,
optional 5.0 litre EFI V8.
1992 VP Ute
This Ute shared the VP family model
coding and had headlights and larger
turn lenses wrapping into the front
guards, a full-width acrylic grille with
low air intake, a central circular badge
on the bonnet’s leading edge and
small blinker repeaters on the front
guards. Handling and ride quality were
improved and the 3.8 litre V6 was
smoother and quieter. Power steering
was standard.
1993 VR Ute
A major upgrade, the VR had a new
front end design, twin port grille, new
headlights and tail lights and flared
wheel arches. The dash and instrument
cluster were all-new and among
comfort and security features were an
electronic door/ignition key and remote
central locking. V6 power output was
lifted; front suspension revisions and
a wider track gave improved road feel
and better turn-in, front brakes were
upgraded. The S Ute had cruise control
and optional driver airbag.
1995 VS Ute
Identified by a silver-highlighted grille
surround, the long-running VS Ute
(Series I, II and III) brought a major
ECOTEC V6 engine upgrade. It gave
a 13 per cent increase in power and
reduced fuel consumption by five per
cent. Brakes and auto transmission
were improved, 15” wheels were made
standard, driver and passenger airbags
were optional. The Ute SS made its first
appearance as a limited edition special.
2000 VU Ute
The first completely new Ute in ten
years combined class-leading driving
dynamics with the flexibility of a
working vehicle. Its integrated sports
styling was highlighted by flowing,
rounded lines and a ‘snap lock’ flushfitting tonneau cover.
Uniquely, the three-model range was
equipped with IRS, complemented by
passenger car levels of performance,
comfort, safety and refinement.
Stronger-bodied and bigger inside and
out it offered greater cargo carrying
capacity than before and a V6 auto
dual fuel petrol/LPG option.
2002 VY Ute
This range adopted a stronger ‘face’ and
more angular lines. Interior treatments
were all new, chassis dynamics better
than ever. It gained ‘twilight sentinel’
automatic headlamps, high feature
Blaupunkt audio systems and roadspeed sensitive intermittent wipers.
Passenger airbags were introduced on
SS Ute, its Gen III V8 boosted to 235kW.
2003 VY Crewman
Holden introduced the crossover fourdoor Crewman in 2003. It was the first
passenger-derivative crew cab, seating
three people in the back seat, and the
longest Holden produced, measuring
5305mm tip to tail. Half monocoque,
half chassis frame, the Crewman
employed a torque arm system from
One Tonner to ensure its durability and
strength. A longer, wider all wheel drive
version called the Crewman Cross 8
followed in October the same year.
» VR Ute
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
2004 VZ Ute
With styling cues that accentuated
width across the front, the VZ offered
performance upgrades. V6 utes had
six-speed manual transmission,
increasing towing range by 30 per cent.
ABS-equipped models offered improved
braking performance and all gained
power windows, cruise control and ‘drive
by wire’ electronic throttle control. Each
model had unique air intake openings
inserts, bumper facias and contrasting
headlamp bezels. SS versions featured
fender vents, twin horizontal optic fibre
parking lamp treatments and fog lamps.
2005 VZ Crewman Cross 8
and Cross 6
» Crewman Cross 8
Available for the first time was a
V6 version of the all wheel drive
Crewman called Crewman Cross 6. In
VZ form, Crewman Cross 8 gained a
power and brake upgrade, electronic
throttle control, climate control and
revised four-speed auto. Major visual
changes included new front fascia
design, twin spear sculpted hood and
flared black wheel arches.
2007 VE Ute
The muscular VE successfully
integrated sports car performance,
ride and handling and load-carrying
practicality. It took the legend to a
new level with more features, more
usable interior space, greater storage
flexibility and performance. With
signature raked bodyside and flared
wheel arches, it radiated authoritative
stance and poise. It was the first
locally produced ute to offer Electronic
Stability Program (ESP®) as standard.
All models sported larger wheels,
tyres and brakes. The Ute SS V married
270kW V8 power with 19” wheels,
dual zone electronic climate control,
Bluetooth phone connectivity, alloy
pedals and a premium audio system.
DaimlerChrysler AG.
» VE Holden Ute
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HOLDEN TORANA: 1967 - 1980
» LC Torana
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
In the early 1960s, as Australian car buyers were offered an ever-increasing choice of makes and
models, Holden diversified its offerings beyond the hugely popular full-sized family cars that had
so far dominated the market.
Holden’s first small car entrant
was the UK-designed four cylinder
Vauxhall Viva HA, introduced in 1964.
The UK connection continued with the
launch in 1967 of the two-door Torana
HB, a close cousin to the Viva HB.
Although the Torana nameplate was
based on an Aboriginal word meaning
‘to fly’, the two-door, four-cylinder
1200cc original didn’t do much to live
up to the promise the name implied.
However, successive models ensured
the Torana name would come to
mean much more than that to the
hundreds of thousands of Australians
who owned one new, got hold of
one second-hand, who passed one
carefully down through the family,
who raced one, rallied one, rolled one;
who hotted one up; who restored one
or two or three and who watched in
awe as the little battler with a big
heart killed giants on the motorsport
circuits of the seventies.
The 1969 Torana LC is regarded by
many as the first real example of the
breed. Classified as small/medium size
(the LC designation stands for ‘light
car’), it introduced traditional Holden
six cylinder power to the range, which
offered two and four-door sedan
configurations and several four- and
six-cylinder engine variants. Included
was a GTR sports model.
In 1970 a racing version, the GTR X-U1
option, was introduced - created by
the Holden Dealer Team’s Harry Firth
to do duty in place of the Monaro GTS
350. It was powered by a 186 cu in
(3.05 litre) straight six, fed by triple
Stromberg side draught 1.5 inch CD
carburettors – a first in any Australian
built production car. Other features
included front brake disc rotors from
the larger Monaro GTS 350 (machined
to fit inside the smaller wheels) the
larger tandem brake booster, 17 gallon
fuel tank, exhaust headers (from the
previous ‘X2’ and ‘186S’ engines) twin,
chrome tipped exhaust tail pipes, a
front air dam and bobtail spoiler.
One month after the XU-1 launch,
Holden revealed the futuristic, wedgeshaped Torana GTR-X two-seater
sports concept, which featured the
same high-performance engine.
The 1972 Torana LJ picked up
features and refinements from the
landmark Holden HQ series released
in 1971 and the model line-up
remained four-cylinder two-door
Torana 1200 sedan (subsequently
increased to 1600 and finally 1760cc),
two and four-door Deluxe sedan and
six-cylinder Torana S (two and four
doors), SL four-door, GTR (2 door) and
production option GTR XU-1.
There was a broad choice of engines,
from a 56hp four to the 190hp 3.3
litre (202 cu in) six which powered the
XU1, assisted by increased-diameter
triple CD Stromberg side draught
carburettors. A locally produced four
speed manual transmission replaced
the previous Opel-sourced sourced unit.
The ultimate Torana GTR XU-1,
released in September 1972 and now
boasting 190hp (142kW), was piloted
to victory in the Hardie-Ferodo 500
(Bathurst 1000) at Mt Panorama by
a young Peter Brock. That day, speed,
reliability, agility and a brilliant driving
performance created two enduring
Aussie heroes.
The 1974 Torana LH all-Australian
medium car was released a month
after the short-lived TA Torana fourcylinder series. The LH range was one
of few in the world to offer buyers to
choice of four, six and eight cylinder
engines; with the six proving most
popular. Bigger and roomier than
previous models, it capitalised on
Torana strengths: good power to
» 1970 L J Torana GTR XU-1
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
weight ratio, good handling, solid
build and durability.
Performance kings were the V8powered SL/R 5000, identified by
decals, air dams front and rear and the
seriously professional SL/R 5000 L34
option package, intended for
the racetrack.
In 1975, the V8 Torana was the
weapon of choice for most top touring
car drivers, and as a privateer Peter
Brock led a Holden demolition team
over Mount Panorama. The Torana
L34 took the top three podium
placings and every one of the class
D (3110cc – 6000cc) race finishers
was a Torana. Back on the Mountain
in 1976, the trusty Torana L34 once
again dominated the Great Race with
a 1-2-3 finish.
The 1976 Torana LX added a smart
3-door hatchback style to the 4-door
model line-up. The SS version could
be optioned with a 5.0 litre V8 engine.
The six and eight cylinder Toranas
received Radial Tuned Suspension in
mid-1977 and later that year came
what most consider to be the most
sought-after Torana of them all.
to the front disc brakes. The rear
floor panel pressing was new to
accommodate the new rear axle
assembly and the wider rear wheels
on the race cars and steering gear was
directly chassis-mounted.
five out of the six podium placings.
Remarkably, Brock and his A9X set a
new lap record on the final circuit of the
1979 race and beat the second-placed
car by six laps - not a bad farewell for a
car with nothing left to prove.
The A9X option was introduced to
homologate improvements for the
touring car circuit and was available
on SL/R 5000 and 5.0 litre SS models
built from 1977 onwards.
Engine and gearbox were the standardissue 5.0 litre V8 and M21 four-speed
manual, although race versions were
fitted with a Borg-Warner Super T-10
four speed. More A9X additions were a
heavy-duty radiator, thermo-controlled
electric engine fan, HX alloy front brake
assemblies and a new master cylinder
with integral proportioning valve.
Deletions (race machines are spartan)
included the radio and centre console.
The Torana UC introduced in March
1978 was the last of the line. It offered
a range of improvements, among
them more aerodynamic styling, major
changes to front end sheet metal,
rectangular headlights and an upgraded
interior. The Salisbury differential was
introduced with UC, RTS was further
refined and rear disc brakes were
optional. No V8 or sports-oriented
models were offered. This series, which
included the Sunbird, was phased out in
the early 1980s.
This great road and racing car
developed 220hp/164kW (road
version) using roller rocker valve
gear, four-wheel disc brakes, front
and rear spoilers and wider 14inch alloy wheels. Further extras
included a strong Holden Salisburytype differential, revised suspension
geometry, L34-type wheel arch flares
and a large rear-facing bonnet scoop
which fed cold air to the carburettor.
Front spoiler ducting drew cool air
While the Torana A9X did not win
at its 1977 Bathurst debut (victory
went to the Moffat/Ickx Falcon XC),
glory years followed in 1978 and 1979,
when Peter Brock and Jim Richards
blitzed all comers and the A9X filled
» 1976 LX Torana SS Hatchback Coupe
1969
1970
1998
1999
2000
2000
2001
2002
2002
2004
2004
2004
2005
2008
HURRICANE
TORANA GTR-X
COUPE CONCEPT
YGM1
ECOMMODORE
SANDMAN
UTESTER
CROSS8
SSX
SST
PROJECT MARILYN
TORANA TT 36
EFIJY
COUPE 60
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
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HOLDEN CONCEPTS
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HOLDEN CONCEPTS
Concept cars characterise everything that is exciting about the creative process in automotive
design. Spanning almost 40 years, these remarkable Holden concept vehicles are striking
illustrations of their designers’ desire to put unique interpretations on current trends and to
set new styling directions. From the Hurricane to the Coupe 60 they have helped to create a clear
and strong vision of what Holden is and where it intends to go.
» 1970 Torana GTR-X
» Hurricane cockpit
» Holden Hurricane - Lang Lang proving ground, 1969
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HOLDEN CONCEPTS
» Coupe Concept
» Sandman
» ECOmmodore
» Sandman interior
» Cross 8
» SSX
» Torana TT36
» SST custom pickup
» Project Marilyn
» Torana TT36 interior
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HOLDEN CONCEPTS
» Efijy
» Coupe 60
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HOLDEN EXPORTS
Through the 1940s the plan by General Motors-Holden’s (GM-H) to develop
and build ‘Australia’s Own Car’ had always included an export strategy.
The export of manufactured
products was also integral to Federal
Government policy. At the 1948
launch of the 48-215 (FX) Holden
at Fishermans Bend, Victoria, Prime
Minister Ben Chifley addressed
assembled guests and an Australiawide radio audience:
» Four-cylinder engine is crated for export
“ I am not here on a political but on
a national mission to thank General
Motors-Holden’s Ltd on behalf of
the Commonwealth. I already view
with pride the possibilities of Holden,
not only in its own country but also
for export to countries beyond our
borders, to other peoples in the Pacific
and South East Asia. ”
GM-H Managing Director, Harold E.
Bettle, concurred:
“ We believe that after increasing our
volume to the point where it will satisfy
domestic demand, we can export
Holden cars and utilities to many
other countries of the world, and thus
establish Australia as an export source
for automobiles, along with the United
States, England, Canada and some
European countries.”
As it turned out, domestic demand
for the new Holdens created waiting
lists which stretched out for years.
Export plans were put on hold as
GM-H worked to lift production rates,
invested millions in plant expansion
programs and developed new models
(Holden Ute, 1951; FJ Holden, 1953).
By 1954, the time had come.
“ Export has always been part of
the plan for manufacture of the
Holden in Australia and, although
production is still some months behind
demand, GM-H believes it is in the
national interest to begin and develop
exporting. The Company also believes
that the Australian public will support
its action because of the importance
of export in the future development of
the industry in this country …”
(1954 GM-H Annual Report).
In the space of six years, Australia
had moved from a position of
dependence on automotive imports
to that of an exporter of locally
manufactured vehicles.
Today, in managing the country’s
largest and longest-running
automotive export program,
Holden has sent more than 780,000
vehicles and four million engines
around the world.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» CKD FJ shipment to NZ
» FC - Fiji
» EK - South Africa
» EH - Hong Kong
1954
1958
1963
1966
» GM-H commenced export operations in late November with a small initial shipment
of FJ sedans to New Zealand. At year’s end the total stood at a modest 321.
» The number of markets rose to 24 and distributors appointed in Ceylon (Sri
Lanka), Indonesia, Goa and Mauritius. Import quotas and exchange restrictions
continued to bite.
» Dealers and distributors with Holden franchises operated in 59 export
territories; 10,798 Holden units were exported.
» The addition of Taiwan and Libya increased export markets to 63.
1964
»G
M-H began a new stage of its export program by sending torque converter
automatic transmission components to Vauxhall in the UK and Opel in Germany.
» 2346 Holden units were exported and the cumulative total passed 10,000.
» A record number of 13,963 Holden units was exported to 61 territories.
» 15,114 Holden units exported.
1959
» “In addition, sets of components for 1680 vehicles were shipped to South Africa
and substantial quantities of automotive parts and accessories were sold
throughout the GM-H export world.” (GM-H Annual Report 1966).
» The 100,000th export Holden (Australian content more than 95 per cent), was
produced at Holden’s Pagewood NSW plant.
» “The Holdens are here. And cheering news it is, too!” (GMNZ News, December 1954).
1955
»1
341 FJ Holdens were exported to New Zealand.
» NZ Government import restrictions stopped plans for larger monthly shipments.
» Exports totalled 3049.
» Ten years after Holden began its export operations, more than 62,000 units
had been shipped overseas, earning Australia an estimated £34.5 million ($69
million) in exchange. GM-H reported the amount of foreign exchange resulting
from Holden exports in 1964 alone was £7.675 million ($15.35 million).
1956
1960
1965
» The first Completely Knocked Down (CKD) Holden packs were exported for
assembly by GMNZ.
» Left-hand drive (LHD) production of the FB Holden began and the initial LHD
shipment went to Hawaii. For the first time Australia earned US dollars from
the sale of a locally made car. 10,672 Holden units exported.
» Exports increased by 41 per cent to 19,369, another record year.
» “ …the Australian car has become well and favorably known and demand far
exceeds availability.” (GM-H Annual Report 1955).
»C
ompletely built up Holdens were exported to new markets in Thailand,
Malaya and North Borneo.· 2193 Holden units exported.
1957
»M
arkets were added to a total of 17. Distributors appointed in Hong Kong, Fiji,
Cook Islands, Samoa, Tahiti, Sudan, Aden and East Africa.
» 4431 Holden units exported.
» Offshore assembly of Holden commercial vehicles began with exports of CKD
Holden Utes to Indonesia and South Africa.
1962
» Markets stood at 46 territories, embracing New Zealand, South, East and West
Africa, Middle East, South-East Asia, Pacific, West Indies and south eastern Europe.
» Total exports of Holden spare parts and accessories were valued at £11 million
($22 million).
» The 1966 GM-H Annual Report noted: “The modern styling of the HD Holden
has permitted Holden to obtain greater penetration in foreign markets in
competition with vehicles manufactured in many other countries … Furthermore,
Holden provides the means of exporting not only the components that are
manufactured in the GM-H plants, but the parts and components procured from
a great many Australian suppliers who provide the needs for Holden production.
Many of these suppliers would be unable, by themselves, to find an overseas
market for the individual components they supply to GM-H.”
1967
» Exports of the Holden Torana began.
» CKD Holden packs were assembled at plants in New Zealand, South Africa,
Indonesia, Trinidad, the Philippines and Pakistan.
1968
» In the 20th year of Holden vehicle production, an all-new HK range which
included Monaro and Brougham models increased export opportunities and
14,364 units were shipped abroad.
» Exports of nodular iron castings to Vauxhall in the UK commenced.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» HK shipment
» HG - Thailand
» Torana export assembly 1969
» HQ Holdens awaiting export.
1969
1972
1978
1982
» The first Australian-built V8 engines were shipped to assembly plants in South
Africa, New Zealand and Malaysia.
» Holden export earnings increased by 44.2 per cent to $64.1 million. Unit sales
rose by 9116 to 33,488. Holden Torana exports (LJ model) peaked at 11,637
units, mostly CKD packs.
» Launch of the all-new Commodore model range.
» The number of 1.6 litre Family II four cylinder engines exported to Europe and
South Africa topped 125,000.
» Completely built up V8 models were among total exports of 13,447 units.
1970
» Total export revenue rose to $42 million, almost double the 1968 figure,
bringing the cumulative value of GM-H exports since 1954 to $217 million.
» Seven plants, in New Zealand, South Africa, Trinidad, Pakistan, Malaysia,
Indonesia and the Philippines, now assembled Holden vehicles from Australianmanufactured components.
» General Motors established regional headquarters of the GM Overseas
Operations Division in Australia.
» Export sales of built-up and CKD units totalled 7171.
1979
» Shipments of built-up and CKD Camira models commenced (the Camira
wagon was sold in Britain as the Vauxhall Cavalier Estate).
» Strong demand for Commodore and Sunbird models in New Zealand.
1973
» Vehicle export sales increased to 11,670 units.
» 9000 sheet metal component sets exported to Daewoo, South Korea.
» Vehicle exports rose by 23.5 per cent.
» The Federal Government announced an export credits program from 1982.
1983
» The HQ became the ‘most exported’ Holden model range.
1980
» Built-up and CKD shipments reached a record 41,181 units, representing 25 per
cent of Holden’s total annual production.
» Exports of WB model Statesman and Caprice commenced.
1974
» A new era of engine exports with the commissioning of a $300 million engine
plant at Port Melbourne. Family II four-cylinder engines produced there were
shipped to the UK and Germany.
» GM-H expressed concern about the longer term effects of the revaluation of
the Australian dollar and threats to government export incentives.
» The cumulative value of 20 years of GM-H exports exceed $472 million.
1971
» Exports totalled 32,587 units; revenue was $74.1 million.
» The HQ Holden range began production in July and immediately increased
penetration in export markets. Good demand was reported for the new Statesman
and other V8 models; six cylinder Torana sales increased in South East Asian markets.
» Inflationary conditions and withdrawal of export incentives pointed to a
further decrease in export demand.
» Holden vehicles were shipped to 73 export territories. A significant proportion
of the year’s total of 24,372 export units comprised CKD packs.
1975 - 77
» Major export markets affected by oil crisis.
» Export sales dropped, remaining static at about 7500 units annually.
1981
» Vehicle exports totalled 12,258 units.
» Territories included New Zealand, the largest market; Indonesia, Trinidad,
Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Bangladesh, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Papua New
Guinea, Sri Lanka and Zambia.
» Commodore assembly commenced in Indonesia.
» GM-H became Australia’s foremost exporter of manufactured goods with
export sales of more than $189 million.
» Exports of vehicles, engines, components and accessories accounted for 15.7
per cent of total sales. 149,172 Family II four cylinder engines shipped to West
Germany, the UK, South Africa and New Zealand.
1984
» GM-H continued as Australia’s top exporter of manufactured goods with
export sales in excess of $200 million.
» Vehicle exports totalled 10,871 units; Family II four cylinder exports, 143,684.
1985
» Engine exports totalled 193,072; vehicle exports 5799.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» Export VTs in production
» Chevrolet Omega - Brazil
» Chevrolet Caprice - Dubai
» Shipment preparation at Elizabeth
1986 - 90
1994
1998
2000
» Engine exports continued to dominate. 209,846 Family II four cylinder engines
were exported in 1987. More than 100,000 of these were shipped to Daewoo
Motor (South Korea).
» HEC produced the two millionth Family II four-cylinder export engine. Its
operations generated more than $1 million in export revenue each working day.
» Holden announced an intention to return to volume vehicle exports.
1995
» Shipments of left-hand drive (LHD) Holden Commodores to the Middle East
began in June and to Brazil in the third quarter.
» Exports increased by 37 per cent, positioning Holden as outright leader in
automotive exports.
» The one millionth Holden Family II four-cylinder export engine was produced in 1988.
» HEC became Holden Engine Operations (HEO) and was Australia’s largest
exporter of manufactured automotive components.
» Shipments to Asia Pacific markets of Australian-built Vectra sedans and
wagons commenced.
» Vehicle exports, primarily to New Zealand, totalled 5485 units.
» Vehicle exports totalled 9744 units. Total Holden export revenue: $548m.
1997
» HEO exported 151,233 Family II engines and earned annual export revenue
of $311 million.
» Shipments of SS Commodores to South Africa, Namibia and Botswana commenced.
1999
» Engineering services generated $80 million export revenue.
» Production of three millionth Family II export engine – a 2.0 litre four-cylinder
double overhead cam Family II engine shipped to Opel, Germany. Other
markets included South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Indonesia, UK, Poland, US,
Belgium, Egypt and South Africa.
2001
» Engine export revenue (1981-1999) totals $4 billion.
» 150,555 four-cylinder engines exported to South Korea, Japan, Taiwan,
Indonesia, United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Belgium, Egypt,
South Africa and Brazil.
» The VL Commodore (17,042 units) and all-new VN Commodore (15,114 units)
model ranges lifted vehicle export sales.
» In 1990 General Motors-Holden’s Automotive and Holden’s Engine Company
recorded export revenue figures totalling $290 million.
1991
» Holden’s Engine Company (HEC) marked ten years of Family II four-cylinder
exports, which had earned an estimated $1.9 billion in export revenue.
» Export engine number 1.5 million was produced in June.
» Vehicle exports dropped to 2217 units.
1992
» HEC Family II engines powered a range of vehicles in a variety of markets:
the Vauxhall Carlton, Cavalier and Astra (UK), Opel Omega, Vectra and Astra
(Germany) and several models for Daewoo (South Korea).
» Engine exports totalled 168,874
» A record high of 248,136 four-cylinder engines exported to a global customer
base that included South Korea, US, Japan, UK, Indonesia, Egypt, Germany,
South Africa, Taiwan, Poland and Belgium.
» HEO generated more than $2 million in export earnings each working day.
» The new generation VT Commodore range, designed to compete in worldwide
markets, was released.
» With its formal establishment as the GM Product Engineering Centre for the
Asia Pacific region, Holden began to export engineering services.
» First shipments of LHD Holden Statesman (Chevrolet Caprice) to Saudi Arabia,
Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain.
» Vehicle exports surged to 22,965 units, an increase of 235 per cent.
» Engine exports of 191,815 units generated $350 million in export revenue.
» Chevrolet Lumina (Commodore) sedans and wagons and Chevrolet Caprice
sedans (Statesman/Caprice) were top-selling GM models in the Middle East.
» Chevrolet Caprice exports exceeded domestic Statesman/Caprice sales, making
this the first locally produced model to sell in higher volume offshore.
» Vehicle exports totalled 29,198; engine exports totalled 264,942 units.
» Combined exports earned $1.16 billion.
» Vehicle exports totalled 28,784.
» Engineering services, providing specialist services to GM programs in the Asia
Pacific region and Europe, earned $60.6 million export revenue.
» A ‘turning of the turf’ ceremony was held at the site of Holden’s new Global V6
engine plant to be built at Fishermans Bend, Victoria.
170
171
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» Chevrolet Caprice Royale - Middle East
» Chevrolet Lumina - Thailand
» 2010 Pontiac G8 sport truck
2002
2004
2007
» Holden announced a $2 billion investment in capacity expansion over five
years; much of the expenditure aimed at servicing export markets.
» Holden confirmed a long-wheelbase sedan based on the WL Statesman would
be exported to GM Daewoo, South Korea, from early 2005.
» New export market for VE sedans announced– SS Commodore to be sold in the
US as Pontiac G8
» Plans announced to export Monaro coupes to the United States, where they
are to be sold as Pontiac GTO.
» Monaro exports to the UK commenced in February.
» Exports to Korea of WM Caprice-based model and Global V6 engine exports to
China confirmed.
» First Monaro export program to the Middle East confirmed, starting 2003.
» Holden announced plans to boost capacity at its Global V6 engine plant to a
designed maximum of 240,000 engines a year.
2008
» Exports to China of a Statesman/Caprice-based model (Buick Royaum)
announced in December.
» 1000th Ute exported to South Africa
» Holden achieved exports of $1096 million, representing 18.4 per cent of
Holden’s total revenues.
» Vehicles and components earned $903.5 million with 31,737 vehicles exported.
Engines and components earned $150.5 million with 94,559 Family II four
cylinder engines exported. Engineering services earned $41.9 million.
2003
» Plans announced to export Holden Commodore to Thailand and Malaysia as
Chevrolet Lumina.
» Pontiac G8 prototype unveiled at Elizabeth
» Vauxhall Monaro in London
» Chevrolet Caprice Royale named Saudi Arabia’s Car Of The Year.
» Vehicle exports of 52,372 units set all-time record.
2005
» Four millionth export engine, a 2.8 litre Turbo V6, shipped to Sweden in November.
» 198,649 Family II and Global V6 engines exported.
» USA Monaro (Pontiac GTO) shipments commenced in final quarter.
» Vehicle exports of 60,518 set an all-time record.
» GM division Vauxhall confirmed that it would start importing the Monaro.
2006
» Vehicle exports of 36,069 units were the second highest on record to 1973.
» First VE Commodore and WM Statesman/Caprice models shipped to Middle
East, South Africa, Brazil and New Zealand in September.
» Holden’s $400 million V6 engine plant commissioned in November.
» 137,078 Family II four-cylinder engines exported to six global markets; first V6
engines exported to GM de Mexico.
» The Chevrolet Caprice was named 2006 Autocar Middle East ‘Best Luxury Car’
in December.
» Pontiac G8 goes on sale in the US
» Plans announced for US export of Pontiac GXP high-performance sedan and
Holden Ute-based Pontiac G8 sport truck.
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THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
YearExports
YearExports
YearExports
YearExports
1954 321
1969 13,447
1984 10,871
1999 22,965
1955 1,341
1970 23,992
1985 5,799
2000 29,198
1956 2,193
1971 24,372
1986 3,562
2001 28,784
1957 4,431
1972 33,488
1987 15,009
2002 31,737
1958 2,346
1973 41,181
1988 4,541
2003 36,069
1959 3,409
1974 32,587
1989 9,230
2004 52,372
1960 10,672
1975 7,540
1990 4,974
2005 60,518
1961
6,956
1976 7,593
1991 2,217
2006 46,074
1962
6,305
1977 7,694
1992 4,952
2007
1963 10,798
1978 7,171
1993 2,952
1964 13,693
1979 11,670
1994 4,916
1965 19,369
1980 6,685
1995 5,545
1966 15,114
1981 12,258
1996 5,508
1967 11,187
1982 12,862
1997 2,600
1968 14,364
1983 6,914
1998 9,744
36,534
» 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP
174
175
» Holden MD Harold Bettle (in hat) inspects a Grey engine destined for the first Holden
HOLDEN ENGINE MANUFACTURE 1940-2006
176
177
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
HOLDEN ENGINE MANUFACTURE
1940-2006
General Motors-Holdens was the first company in Australia
to mass produce internal combustion engines.
ENGINES OF WAR
In 1940, with the outbreak of World
War II and subsequent isolation from
US and European supply sources,
plans for a foundry and engine shop
at the GMH Port Melbourne site were
accelerated to support the war effort.
The new foundry produced a wide
range of cast components, among
them cylinder heads and engine
blocks for the GM-designed 165hp
Gray Marine diesel unit, the same
engine that later powered Normandy
landing craft on D-day. More than
1300 Gypsy Major aero engines
and spares and four-cylinder radial
engines for naval torpedoes were also
built at Fishermans Bend.
» Gypsy Major aero engine
At war’s end, GMH had acquired many
of the skills and capabilities required
to turn its attention to automotive
engine manufacture, and funds were
injected into upgrading plant facilities
in preparation.
THE GREY ENGINE
Full-scale manufacture of the first
Holden engine commenced at Port
Melbourne in the second half of 1948.
The six cylinder, 2.15 litre, 45kW Grey
engine, so named for the colour of its
painted block, powered Australia’s first
mass-produced car, the Holden 48-215.
producing two new and more
powerful six cylinder Red engines.
They were the 2.45 litre ‘149’ and the
2.95 litre six cylinder ‘179’, introduced
with the EH model range.
With a shorter stroke and larger
bore, they operated with a higher
compression ratio and featured such
advancements as seven bearing
crankshafts, hydraulic valve lifters,
external oil pump and filter.
Noted for its torque performance,
high cruising speed, exceptional fuel
economy and durability, the overheadvalve Grey engine continued, with
minor engineering changes, to power
successive Holden models through the
1950s and early ‘60s.
Over their long life, the Red
engines benefited from numerous
re-engineering programs and the
application of new technologies to
improve performance and
fuel efficiency.
THE RED ENGINE
Production of Holden’s Red engines
ceased in 1980.
In June 1963, a newly completed
£11,000,000 engine plant began
operations at Port Melbourne,
» The Grey engine - displayed at 1956 Melbourne Motor Show
178
179
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1940-2006
In 1964, GMH instituted a $20 million V8 engine design and development project
in response to a strong national push for a locally produced ‘bent eight’.
THE FIRST AUSTRALIAN V8
» 1989 - first fuel-injected V8
Five years later, a new engine facility
at Fishermans Bend began producing
two versions of the new Aussie V8 –
the ‘253’ and ‘308’. The engines made
their debut with the 1969 HT Holden
series, after the 308 was exhibited in
the mid-engined Holden Hurricane
concept car. More than 541,000
Holden V8s were built over a 30year period, a record of longevity
comparable to that of the venerable
Chevrolet V8.
The Holden V8 powered every
mainstream model from the HT
to the VT Commodore, not to
mention 70s model Toranas. It
was successively re-engineered to
embrace such advances as unleaded
fuel and multi-point fuel injection
and constantly refined to produce
escalating levels of power and torque.
The ‘unleaded’ version was introduced
in 1986 and the fuel-injected 5.0 litre
V8, at 165kW the most powerful
mass-produced Australian engine to
date, went into production in 1989.
In addition, the plant had the capacity
to produce specialised units like the
‘Group A’ for racing homologation.
Over the years, Holden V8s also found
their way into open-wheeler racers,
trucks, boats and 4WD vehicles,
among other applications.
The last locally-built Holden V8 came
off line in June 1999. It was replaced by
the Gen III 5.7 litre alloy V8, developed
by General Motors Powertrain.
THE FAMILY II FOUR CYLINDER ENGINE
In 1979, GMH invested $300 million
in a high volume four-cylinder engine
plant and foundry at Fishermans
Bend. It began producing GM’s
compact, lightweight and fuel
efficient ‘Family II’ Camtech engine in
1981, with two thirds of the projected
peak annual production of 300,000
units destined for export.
Production of 1.6 litre Family II engines
to power Holden’s new front-wheel
drive ‘J car’, the Camira, began in 1982
and by 1983 the Fishermans Bend
four-cylinder plant had produced
its 250,000th engine. Engine and
component exports helped to elevate
GMH to the position of Australia’s
major exporter of manufactured
goods in 1983, when almost 150,000
Family II engines were shipped out of
the country.
A further $67 million investment
in plant upgrades and re-tooling
preceded the start of production
of the second generation Family II
engine in 1985, when unit exports
topped 193,000.
» First V8 engine
» Holden employees with the three-millionth four cylinder engine, September 1997
» Engine export 4,000,000 - a V6
1986 saw the reorganisation of
General Motors-Holden’s into two
GM subsidiary companies – Holden’s
Motor Company (HMC) and Holden’s
Engine Components Company (HEC).
In 1995, HEC announced a $200
million investment boost over a
two-year period to support the
introduction of four valve, double
overhead camshaft (DOHC)
technology, foundry modernisation
and capacity expansion.
to 25 per cent more powerful and
15 per cent more fuel efficient than
their predecessors.
The following year, HEC passed
the one million Family II engine
production milestone and exports
to Korea commenced, assisting the
achievement of the one millionth
export engine milestone in 1988.
HEC produced its two millionth export
engine in 1994. By that stage the
company was generating more than
$1 million in export revenue every
working day and servicing a global
customer base. Component sales
in raw and machined iron castings
accounted for $30 million annually,
and HEC plant and foundry had the
capacity to produce 335,000 four
cylinder, 110,000 V6 and 26,000 V8
engines per annum.
Later that year, HEC became today’s
HEO (Holden Engine Operations)
following its re-integration into
Holden manufacturing operations,
poised to make a key contribution as
GM moved to develop its operations in
the Asia Pacific region.
The three millionth Family II four
cylinder engine was produced in
1997, when HEO shipped out more
than 260,000 engines and earned
export revenue of $450 million. The
three millionth export milestone was
reached in 1999.
In 2000 – when the foundry poured a
record 50,000 tonnes of metal – HEO
shipped 264,942 engines, earning total
export revenue of $447 million. In 2002,
HEO engines and components earned
$150.5 million dollars in export revenue.
In 2004 and 2005, Holden Family II
four-cylinder engines were exported
to South Korea, China, Thailand, South
Africa and South America.
2007 export customers included GM
Europe, GM Thailand, GM Daewoo,
Shanghai GM and GM South Africa.
In mid-2008, GM Holden confirmed
that after a long and successful life,
the Family II engine would cease
production at Fishermans Bend in the
final quarter of 2009.
THE BLUE ENGINE
With the launch of the VC Holden
Commodore in 1980 came a new
range of six and eight cylinder
engines painted GM blue. Upgraded
to XT5 specifications, they were up
Six-cylinder features (2.85 and 3.3
litre) included a new 12-port head,
new manifolding, a two barrel
carburettor and electronic ignition.
The 4.2 litre and 5.0 litre V8s benefited
from new heads, inlet manifold,
electronic ignition and a four-barrel
carburettor for the 4.2 litre V8.
In 1984, a new 3.3 litre EFI engine was
introduced with VK Commodore and
the 4.2 litre V8 ceased production.
Also available was a 3.3 litre six with
electronic spark timing and air injection.
Production of Blue six cylinder
Holden engines ceased in 1986
with the introduction of the VL
Commodore, powered by a Nissansourced 3.0 litre unit.
180
181
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
1940-2006
In 1986 Holden chose a U.S. designed and developed Buick V6 engine for the upcoming
next-generation VN Commodore, due for release in mid 1988.
» Global V6 production
THE V6 ENGINE
Following an intensive engineering
program, assembly of the V6
commenced at Port Melbourne
early in 1988.
The 3.8 litre, 127kW, EFI V6 – a fuel
efficient, light, compact, torque
performer – was localised to suit
Holden requirements, a process
which included fitment of an
Australian- developed electronic
engine management system.
In 1995, a $9 million investment saw
the original unit replaced by a radically
revised second generation ECOTEC V6.
Utilising low friction technology for
improved performance, it was smaller,
lighter and more fuel efficient.
Assembly of a 165kW Supercharged
V6 variant commenced in 1996.
» Prototype V6 is lowered into VN Commodore engine bay
With the VX Commodore debut in
2000, normally aspirated V6 engine
power was increased and fuel economy
further improved. HEO employees
celebrated production of the millionth
V6 engine one month later.
vehicle range, beginning with the VZ
Commodore, Calais and WL Caprice and
Statesman models released in August
2004. They also powered Holden’s six
cylinder export vehicle variants.
The 3.8 litre ECOTEC V6 benefited
through the years from a continuing
series of refinements carried out to
improve operating smoothness,
per formance, economy and
exhaust emissions.
The ‘clean sheet’ Global V6 engine
family was created by GM to fulfil its
strategy to build a new generation of
sophisticated, high-feature six cylinder
engines for worldwide application
in premium and high-performance
vehicles. One of the prime objectives
was to create a highly flexible
platform from which a matrix of costeffective variants could be developed.
It ceased production in August 2004.
THE ALLOYTEC V6
Production of Holden’s all-new Alloytec
and Alloytec 190 Global V6 engines
began in June 2004 at a new $400
million engine plant in Port Melbourne.
The new Alloytec engines replaced
the ECOTEC and Supercharged V6
right across the Holden V-car-based
passenger and light commercial
From the program’s inception in
1999, teams of Holden product and
manufacturing engineers worked
as part of a multi-national GM
team to develop the Global V6. They
contributed a wealth of rear wheel
drive powertrain experience to make
certain that everything required for
the Australian Alloytec variant was
included in the initial charter.
The unique development and
localisation of the Alloytec V6 took
place on both sides of the Pacific and
consumed more than 200,000 staff
hours and 143 experimental engines
and required 60 specific tests.
Because the Alloytec engine design
included so many high-tech features,
its electronic engine and transmission
control systems needed to be equally
advanced. The critical task of calibrating
Alloytec engine software and all its
technologies for local conditions and
driving patterns took two years and
the talents of 15 specialist Holden
engineers. More than 7000 variables
were required for the calibration – five
times more than ECOTEC.
The program involved frequent test
trips to extreme climate and altitude
» Alloytec - coil on plug ignition
» Alloytec High Output 195kW
locations in Australia, Europe and the
USA as well as hundreds of thousands
of proving ground kilometres and a
rigorous emissions testing schedule.
For increased efficiency, the High
Output Alloytec V6 is equipped with
variable cam phasing on exhaust as
well as inlet camshafts.
The Alloytec engine is a lightweight
V6 of all-aluminium construction and
3.6 litre displacement, operating with
advanced double overhead camshafts
and four valves per cylinder.
A micro hybrid design 32-bit capacity
engine control unit, one of the most
powerful currently available for
automotive use, dictates every aspect
of engine operation. Electronic throttle
control effectively coordinates drivers’
intentions with the actions of various
powertrain control components.
Electronically controlled and
hydraulically actuated, continuously
variable cam phasing brings outstanding
camshaft operational flexibility.
A dual stage variable intake manifold
facilitates greater torque at low to
medium engine speeds and increases
power at high speed.
Three 3.6 litre Alloytec V6 engines are
produced: a 180kW version, a High
Output 195 kW version and a 175kW
LPG variant.
182
183
» Mark Skaife HRT VY Commodore V8 Supercar HOLDEN IN MOTORSPORT
Photo Dirk Klynsmith
184
185
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
Almost as soon as the first 48-215 Holdens began appearing
on Australian roads, men began racing them.
» Group Nb historic racing - 1980s
Post-war legends like Dick Shaw,
Jack Meyers and Ray Long wheeled
their ‘Humpies’ around circuits long
gone from active service: Mount
Druitt, Caversham, Fishermans Bend,
Templestowe, Gnoo Blas and the like.
The crowds flocked to see them take
on the foreign Peugeots, Customlines,
Zephyrs, Fiats and Morrises. A rivalry
and a tradition of sedan racing in
Australia was born.
Soon enough, the 48-215 was joined
on the circuits by the FJ, then in the
mid-50s by the FE.
They were raced by the likes of Stan
Jones, Leo Geoghegan, John French and
many, many, others. The attractions
of the Holdens as racing vehicles
were many and familiar. They were
relatively simple, strong and offered
a good return in terms of horsepower
for your dollar. Famous tuning names
like Repco, Waggott and Perfectune
developed around the Holden.
Australian racing and many of them
used Holden power and components.
And with no unified national rules for
sedan racing in the 1950s, the sky was
the limit.
The end of the decade saw the
introduction of Appendix J regulations
to cover sedan racing nationwide and
the establishment of a single-race
Australian Touring Car Championship.
At one stage Leo Geoghegan’s Humpy
boasted streamlining and underbody
fairing, which pre-dated groundeffects technology by 20 years.
It wasn’t only on tar where the
Holdens made their mark. In 1953,
Jones and fellow racing legends Lex
Davison and Tony Gaze drove a 48-215
to 64th place overall in the Monte
Carlo Rally.
The 50s was also the era of the Redex,
Ampol and Mobilgas round- Australia
trials, and Holden scored its share
of success despite some strong
international opposition, particularly
from Volkswagen. It was also an era
where home-built ‘specials’ littered
In 1960 an endurance race for
production cars called the Armstrong
500 was held at Phillip Island and
by 1963 the race had transferred
to Bathurst. This was the decade
in which the popularity of tin tops
gradually usurped the position of
open-wheel race cars as the country’s
pre-eminent form of motor sport.
Holden played a crucial role in that
development. This was the era of
the EH 179, the HD X2 and the great
Monaro, with drivers like Norm
Beechey, Brian Muir and Spencer
Martin. It was also the era of the
» Bathurst 1968
Supercar, with Ford and Holden going
head to head with GT Falcon versus
Monaro GTS.
The privateer Monaro of Bruce
McPhee and Barry Mulholland scored
Holden’s first victory on the mountain
in 1968. McPhee drove the entire race
(with the exception of one lap, to
satisfy regulations) and was content
to play a waiting game and allow the
others to destroy themselves. And
destroy themselves they did. The
unexpected victory was to be the start
of a love affair between Holden and
the Great Race at Mount Panorama
that continues to this day.
» 1956 Mobilgas Trial
» 1970 Ampol Trial
Courtesy Chevron Publishing
186
187
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
» 1979 Round Australia Repco Trial
» VX Commodores - Season 2002
HOLDEN VICTORIES IN THE BATHURST 1000
1997 VS Commodore Larry Perkins/Russell Ingall
COMMODORE BATHURST 1000 RECORD
1998 VS/VT Commodore Craig Lowndes
1968 HK Monaro GTS 327 Bruce McPhee/Barry Mulholland
1999 VT Commodore Greg Murphy/Steven Richards
First Bathurst race: 1980 (VC Commodore)
2000 VT Commodore Mark Skaife
1969 HT Monaro GTS 350 Colin Bond/Tony Roberts
2000 VT Commodore Garth Tander/Jason Bargwanna
Total Bathurst 1000s
26
2001
VX Commodore Mark Skaife
1972 LJ Torana XU1 Peter Brock
2001 VX Commodore Mark Skaife/Tony Longhurst
Total Bathurst victories: 17
2002 VX Commodore Mark Skaife
1975 LH Torana L34 Peter Brock/Brian Sampson
2002 VX Commodore Mark Skaife/Jim Richards
Second placings: 12
2006 VZ Commodore Rick Kelly
1976 LH Torana L34 Bob Morris/John Fitzpatrick
2003 VY Commodore Greg Murphy/Rick Kelly
Third placings: 12
2007 VE Commodore
Garth Tander
1978 LX Torana A9X Peter Brock/Jim Richards
2004 VY Commodore Greg Murphy/Rick Kelly
Total podium placings: 41
1979 LX Torana A9X Peter Brock/Jim Richards
2005 VZ Commodore Mark Skaife/Todd Kelly
1980 VC Commodore Peter Brock/Jim Richards
1982 VH Commodore Peter Brock/Larry Perkins
1983 VH Commodore Peter Brock/Larry Perkins/John Harvey
1984 VK Commodore Peter Brock/Larry Perkins
1986 VK Commodore Allan Grice/Graeme Bailey
1987 VL Commodore Peter Brock/David Parsons/Peter McLeod
1990 VL Commodore Win Percy/Allan Grice
1993 VP Commodore Larry Perkins/Gregg Hansford
1995 VR Commodore Larry Perkins/Russell Ingall
1996 VR Commodore Craig Lowndes/Greg Murphy
REPCO ROUND AUSTRALIA RELIABILITY TRIAL
1979 VB Commodore (1st 2nd 3rd ), Peter Brock/Noel Richards/Matt Phillip,1st
MOST SUCCESSFUL HOLDEN DRIVER AT BATHURST 1000
HOLDEN VICTORIES IN THE AUSTRALIAN
TOURING CAR/V8 SUPERCAR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Peter Brock (9 wins, 27 starts)
1970 HT Monaro GTS 350 Norm Beechey
MOBIL 1 ROUND AUSTRALIA TRIAL
1974 LJ Torana XU1 Peter Brock
1995 1975 LH Torana L34 Colin Bond
1978 LX Torana A9X Peter Brock
Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series
1979 LX Torana A9X Bob Morris
2002
VX Commodore Paul Dumbrell
1980 VB Commodore Peter Brock
2007
VZ Commodore Tony D’Alberto
1994 VP Commodore Mark Skaife
1996 VR Commodore Craig Lowndes
BATHURST 24 HOUR
2002 Monaro CV8 Steven Richards/Garth Tander/
Cameron McConville/Nathan Pretty
2003 Monaro CV8 Peter Brock/Greg Murphy/
Todd Kelly/Jason Bright
VR Commodore Ed Ordynski/Ross Runnalls
188
» V8 Supercar Champion Garth Tander: HRT VE Commodore Photo Dirk Klynsmith
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
SPA FRANCORCHAMPS 24 HOURS RACE (BELGIUM)
NZ V8 SPRINT SERIES
1986 VK Commodores King’s Cup teams prize, Moffat/Harvey/Brock
1996 1987 VL Commodore First in class, fourth outright, Moffat/Harvey
VR Commodore Greg Murphy
NZ V8 SUPERCAR ROUND
WORLD TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP - FIRST ROUND (MONZAG ITALY)
2001 VX Commodore Greg Murphy
1987 2002 VX Commodore Greg Murphy
2003 VY Commodore Greg Murphy
NEW ZEALAND TOURING CAR SERIES
2004 VY Commodore Jason Bright
1982 2005 VZ Commodore Greg Murphy
2006 VZ Commodore Mark Skaife
WELLINGTON 500 STREET RACE (NEW ZEALAND)
2007 VE Commodore Rick Kelly
1986 VK Commodore Brock/Moffat
2008 VE Commodore Garth Tander
1987 VK Commodore Brock/Moffat
VL Commodore VH Commodore Moffat/Harvey
Brock/David Oxton
PUKEKOHE (NEW ZEALAND)
1986 VK Commodore Harvey/Neil Lowe
1987 VK Commodore Perkins/Denny Hulme
189
190
191
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
PETER BROCK 1945 - 2006
When motor racing legend Peter Brock was killed while competing in the Targa West Rally
in Western Australia on 8 September 2006, Holden lost a favourite son.
Peter Brock was a fine ambassador
for the Holden brand for almost 40
years as a racing car driver and tireless
community advocate. He leaves an
indelible mark on the history of the
company and in the hearts of the
thousands of Australians whose lives
he touched.
Known as ‘Peter Perfect’ and ‘King of
the Mountain’ for good reason, Peter
Brock achieved a record unchallenged
by any other driver in the history of
Australian motor racing.
Charismatic and consummately
professional, he won many accolades
but will be best remembered for his
mastery of Australia’s annual Great
Race at Bathurst, a touring car circuit
regarded as one of the most difficult
in the world.
Peter Brock’s work as a road safety
advocate was recognised with an
Order of Australia medal in 1980.
He retired from full time motor racing
in 1997 and in the same year set up
the Peter Brock Foundation, a project
supporting a range of community
programs which placed a particular
emphasis on disadvantaged youth.
Peter was a sought-after motivational
speaker. He regarded his appointment
as athlete liaison officer for the
Australian team at the Sydney 2000
and Athens 2004 Olympics as a major
career highlight.
Career Highlights
» Bathurst 1000 Winner – nine times
1972, 1975, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1982,
1983, 1984, 1987
» Scored six pole positions for the
Bathurst 1000 – more than any
other driver. Made Bathurst debut
in 1969 for the Holden Dealer Team
and had a total of 32 starts in the
Bathurst 1000.
» Was to have had his last Bathurst start
for the Holden Racing Team in 2004
but co-driver Jason Plato crashed out
before Brock took the wheel.
» Sandown 500 winner – nine times:
1973, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979,
1980, 1981, 1984
» Scored nine pole positions for the
Sandown 500 – more than any
other driver.
» Australian Touring Car Champion:
1974, 1978 and 1980.
» Runner-up in the Australian Touring
Car Championship five times – 1973,
1979, 1981, 1984 and 1990.
» Most pole positions in Australian
Touring Car Championship
history – 57.
» Held the record of the most round
wins (37) in the history of the
Australian Touring Car/V8 Supercar
Championship Series. HRT’s Mark
Skaife tied the record in 2006.
» 1979 Round Australia Reliability Trial
winner in the Holden Commodore’s
competitive debut
» Runner-up in the 1977 Spa 24 Hour
classic in Belgium. Winner of the
Index of Performance.
» 2003 Bathurst 24 Hour Winner in a
Holden Monaro with Greg Murphy,
Todd Kelly and Jason Bright.
» Competed internationally in
the European Touring Car
Championship, Le Mans 24 Hour
and Goodwood Festival of Speed.
»R
ated second among the top 20
touring car drivers of all-time
by UK magazine ‘Motor Sport’,
February 2005.
192
193
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
FAMILY MODELS
PRODUCTION BREAKDOWN
MODEL SERIES
VOLUME PRODUCTION COMMENCED TOTAL NUMBER PRODUCED
DOMESTIC BUILT–UP EXPORT COMPLETELY KNOCKED DOWN
48-215 1948 120,402 120,402 0
0
FJ 1953 169,969 167,441 2,528 0
FE 1956 155,161 148,586 2,831 3,744
FC 1958 191,724 187,055 1,946 2,723
FB 1959 174,747 161,939 3,256 9,552
EK 1961 150,214 143,362
2,574
4,278
EJ 1962 154,811 145,566 3,797 5,448
EH 1963 256,959 236,266 7,181 13,512
HD 1965 178,927 157,946 6,521 14,460
HR 1966 252,352 228,542 7,723 16,087
HK 1968 199,039 183,094 5,001 10,944
HT 1969 183,402 162,144 5,849 15,409
HG 1970 155,787 132,418 5,129 18,240
HQ 1971 485,650 398,802 14,558 72,290
HJ 1974 176,202 166,301 949 8,952
» No. 1 Holden comes off the line - 1948
194
195
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
FAMILY MODELS
MODEL SERIES
HX 1976 110,669 103,812 593 6,264
HZ 1977 154,155 144,078 1,749 8,328
VB 1978 95,906 92,445 629 2,832
VC 1980 121,807 108,645 586 12,576
WB Statesman & Caprice 1980 60,231 58,827 204 1,200
VH 1981 141,018 126,089 739 14,190
VK 1984 135,705 119,909 346 15,450
VL 1986 151,801 134,795 4,322 12,720
VN 1988 215,180 200,066 6,684 8,430
VQ Statesman & Caprice 1990 9,396 9,208 188 0
VG Ute 1990 5,690 5,178 512 0
VP 1991 111,770 105,965 5,805 180
VR 1993 165,262 156,564 8,698 0
VS 1995 277,774 263,885 13,889 0
VT 1997 303,895 270,467 33,428 0
WH Statesman & Caprice 1999 62,436 22,489 39,947 0
VX 2000 211,125 177,204 34,021 0
VY 2002 241,909 206,092 35,817 0
WK Statesman & Caprice 2003 23,877 7,410 16,467 0
VZ 261,238
226,151
35,087
0
WL Statesman & Caprice 2004 50,893 5,993 44,900 0
VE 2006 Still in production
WM Statesman & Caprice 2006 Still in production
2004 196
197
THE HOLDEN HERITAGE
TORANA/SUNBIRD PRODUCTION
MODEL SERIES
HB (1) May 1967 16,318 15,969 349 0
HB (2) Sept 1968 20,243 19,950 289 4
LC
Sept 1969 74,627 71,277 2918 432
LJ Feb 1972 81,813 70,176 1819 9818
LH May 1974 70,184 60,539 258 9387
TA May 1974 11,304 9275 13 2016
LX Dec 1975 65,977 62,110 123 3744
UC Feb 1978 53,008 46,495 225 6288
GEMINI PRODUCTION
MODEL SERIES
» HB Torana
» TG Gemini
» JB Camira
» Vectra production
CAMIRA PRODUCTION
MODEL SERIES
JB July 1982 85,725 79,420 150 6155
JD Oct 1984 36,953 36,842 111 0
JE Mar 1987 29,129 26,226 743 2160
VECTRA PRODUCTION
TX Feb 1975 43,099 4397 2
0
TC Dec 1976 17,256 17,255 1
0
TD Mar 1978 42,396 42,396 0
0
MODEL SERIES
TE Sept 1979 70,567 70,562 5
0
JS TF Feb 1982 28,326 28,325 1
0
TG Mar 1983 24,675 23,535 0
1140
RB May 1985 16,263 16,261 2
0
1998 21,687 15,832 5855 0

60 Years Anniversary Edition - PDF - media.gm.com

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