1973 Holden HQ sedan - today's tempter

By: Guy Allen, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 08.03.2017

First-gen sedan needs a make-over

HQ sedan looks like it's all there but could use a little love.

There is a school of thought out there that says of the entire HQ to HZ series, the original is the prettiest and, arguably, the best-looking Holden sedan of all time. Big call?

Style issues aside, it was undeniably successful, with something over 485,000 cars produced. They included sedans, wagons, coupes, utilities (including a cab-chassis) and panel vans. Plus there was a loong-wheelbase Statesman luxury car.

Engine choices were straight sixes or V8s ranging from 173ci (2.8lt) through to 350ci (5.7lt). Manual (three or four-speed) and auto transmissions (three-speed) were offered.

They even gained some modest export success as the Chevrolet Kommando in South Africa.

For many, their main exposure to the model would be via the HQ race series, which was set up as a low-cost category with strict eligibility rules. It's fair to say the racing has always been spectacular, given how close the competition is.

The car we're looking at here is in the ACT and looks like it might be the basis for a resto. There is some rust showing up, which would need to be assessed carefully and the paint is tired.

It's owner indicates that the mechanical side of things is looked after.

Modifications seem few, with the most noticable being the Statesman seats in the front row.

The owner warns, "Without wanting to offend, I would rather not engage with anyone wanting to reminisce about their fathers uncles brothers cousins GTS four door or LS Monaro.  I am not a Holden fanatic and am in no rush to sell.  As a consequence I will be unmoved about any offers from the advertised price." How much? $9000

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