1979 Holden HZ Sandman replica – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 26.03.2020

Well-executed Sandman replica with rebuilt 308 and gearbox, fully restored

The HZ generation of Holden represented the last of the traditional large-sized Lions.

Dynamically, the car was transformed thanks to those magical three letters, ‘RTS’ – or Radial Tuned Suspension – which tamed much of the notorious understeer that befell preceding generations.

The lineup was given a shakeup, with the Belmont name dropped and a more luxury-oriented Kingswood SL introduced. Statesmans, Sandmans, Premiers as well as utilities and of course the Monaro GTS Sedan rounded out the range.

This 1979 HZ ute began life as a factory L31 5.0lt V8 and M41 T400 auto example, but has since been extensively rebuilt into a very neat Sandman replica.

Under the restored body sits a rebuilt 308 and reconditioned gearbox. The brakes have been overhauled and power steering added. The seller describes the car as "mechanically like new".

The interior is said to be all-new as well; including seats, door trims, carpet, console lid and selector, as well as GTS steering wheel and dash.

Overall, it’s a very well-presented cruiser, and would suit someone after a characterful classic to enjoy, and perhaps not concerned with 100% originality.

Listed for $27,000, the seller says: "you could not build this car for the price [he] is selling".

The HZ Ute is based in New South Wales, and you can check out the full listing here!

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