1971 Holden LC GTR Torana Coupe

Description

The LC Torana was introduced in October 1969 as a substantial revision of the HB, turning what had essentially been a re-badged Vauxhall Viva into a truly Australian car. Available with both four and six-cylinder engines (the bigger-engined models had a longer 100-inch wheelbase) and in two or four-door body styles, the new Torana was a particularly handsome design. The LC Torana was awarded Wheels magazine's coveted Car of the Year prize for 1969 and quickly became the bestselling car in its class. Trim levels included the S and SL, while for the more sporting driver there was the new GTR model. Available as a two-door only, the GTR utilised Holden's more powerful 161-cid six with a two-barrel Stromberg carburettor, new cylinder head, twin exhaust manifolds, a revised air cleaner and other modifications resulted in maximum power of 125 bhp at 4800 rpm. As a package, the GTR was the Torana equivalent to the 186S GTS seen on the Monaro and similarly added a four-speed Opel-sourced manual gearbox, front disc brakes plus heavy-duty suspension, including a front anti-roll bar. Priced at $2,778, the GTR pack also consisted of full instrumentation, unique wheel covers, a wood-rimmed steering wheel and a range of bold colours. Just 1,176 LC GTRs were made and few survive today, making this one of the rarest and most collectible Torana variants.