1973 Holden HQ Premier 5.0 V8 Sedan

Announced in July 1971, Holden's HQ represented a radical departure from the outgoing model range and was entirely new in almost ever y way. Built around a perimeter chassis - the first seen on a big Australian car - the HQ featured modern styling, new suspension with coil springs all round to improve the ride and handling, better passive safety through the use of padding inside and stronger panels outside. The engines, transmissions and steering were also new and buyers could specify ventilated front disc brakes. Both sixes (173/202-cid) and V8s (253/308/350-cid) were available, with a choice of transmissions ranging from a 3-speed column shift manual, 4-speed console-mounted manual, 3-speed Trimatic or Turbo Hydramatic 400 automatic. Three basic models were offered, the Belmont, Kingswood and luxury Premier - the latter being described by Holden's PR as offering "compact luxury" with the emphasis on interior appointments. The Premier was distinguished by the quad round headlamps and boasted chrome sill plates, leather-grain vinyl trim (bucket seats were optional), pull-down armrests, walnut dash facia, high-loop pile carpets and flow-thru ventilation system. Options included power steering, power windows, rear stereo speakers and Raydo cloth trim. The Premier was certainly a popular choice for those seeking a little luxury and Holden's advertising proudly proclaimed "Drive it once and you won't accept anything else."