Restored exterior and interior with factory 253 L32 V8. Seller uncertain if genuine
Commercial vehicles were hot property throughout the 70s, and the big three rode the wave providing customers with the likes of the Ford Sundowner, Chrysler Drifter, and this, the Holden Sandman.
Still enjoying a passionate cult following today, Sandmans in particular are now fetching prices equalling four-door Monaros, and as the cars get rarer and rarer (especially in good original nick), there’s plenty of potential upside to come.
While most Sandmans you see are panel vans, this 1979 HZ Ute might pique your interest on its slightly increased rarity.
The factory 4.2lt V8 (second biggest to the big 5.0) has been rebuilt to original condition, but the original M40 T-bar automatic has been swapped for a Toyota Supra five-speed manual (converted back in the 90s).
The exterior has also been stripped and resprayed, the seller reports that not a lick of rust or bog was found when the car was torn down. The bed was left in original paint as it didn’t need any attention and had never been used as a work truck.
The interior too features new carpets, seats, door cards, as well as a GTS dash and steering wheel.
The car looks to be in good condition, the paint present extremely well in photos, the engine bay looks immaculate, and the interior is free of cracking and tears. The price too, looks quite good!
However, there is one caveat you should be aware of!
The owner states he is not certain whether this is an original Sandman. You might decide the car’s condition speaks for itself if you’re not overly concerned with originality. If you are looking for a genuine Sandman ute, this car could still be worth investigating.
Should it turn out to be a genuine Sandy from factory, it doesn’t look like a bad one to buy.
The car is based in Orange NSW, and is listed for $35,900.
You can check out the full listing here!
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