V8 and five-speed makes for an interesting package.
HG Holdens were in a bit of a no-mans land for collectors for many years, but seem to have come back with a vengeance in recent years.
The range was introduced to the market in 1970 in sedan, wagon, van, utility, coupe and Brougham with several levels of trim. Two straight sixes and three V8s were offered locally, while a third 2.1lt six was available in export models. The king of the eights was the 350 (5.7lt).
The full engine range was:
Sixes
130ci – 2.1lt (export only)
161ci – 2.6lt
Eights
253ci – 4.2lt
308ci – 5.0lt
350ci – 5.7lt
Four transmissions were offered: a three and four-speed manual, or a two or three-speed auto (Powerglide and Trimatic).
They’ve been popular for resto mod projects over the last six or seven years, partly because the base cars were relatively cheap to buy.
Just as important is the huge range of parts available and the fact the range lends itself well to some pretty wild mix and match ideas – particularly on the mechanical front.
Former Unique Cars mag Editor Greg Leech undertook an HG Premier as a project some years ago and you can read about it here.
Meanwhile we were a bit taken with this ute which, though carrying a pretty solid price tag, presents particularly well. The combination of a 253 powerplant and five-speed manual (out of a Supra) should be a good drive.
Located in Victoria, the price is $30,000.