1985 Holden Gemini SL/X – Today’s Compact Aussie Tempter

By: James Robinson, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 13.10.2017

This one looks tidy

The RB Holden Gemini is the first iteration of the second generation of a line of small, family oriented cars built by GMH between 1975 and 1986.

The RB series, which was first released in April of 1985, brought with it a number of changes over its predecessors.

Chief among these changes was the switch from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive, as the RB Gemini was based on GMs FWD R platform.

The RB was also the first Gemini not built at Holdens Acacia Ridge plant in Queensland, with production instead taking place at Holden’s Elizabeth plant.

There were two levels of trim spec made available to customers: the SL/E and the SL/X. However, a barebones SL model was made available for fleet sales only.

Power came from an Isuzu ‘4XC1’ 1471cc inline four cylinder motor, and this donk was mated to either a five-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission.

The RB Gemini was not a successful car when it was released into the marketplace, with many crediting the unpopularity of the car with GMH scrapping the Gemini moniker altogether just a year after the RBs production had begun.

This particular RB Gemini is an ’85 SL/X with the three-speed automatic transmission and, according to the seller, the vehicle has travelled an original 113,302 kilometres from new.

The seller adds that the vehicle has only ever had to owners, is always garaged, serviced regularly and is in good condition.

The RB Gemini is $3200 and anyone interested in this compact Aussie classic can view the full listing here.

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