1976 Holden LX Torana SL Hatchback

Description

A landmark car in the history of General Motors Holden, the LH Torana was a major step forward for the company, the first time a mid-sized car had been designed and built with Australian conditions uppermost on the design brief. Unveiled in March 1974, the Torana boasted all-new bodywork with bigger dimensions all round and modern, elegant styling. A key to the LH Torana’s success was the extensive choice of engine and transmissions available to customers, including a 1.9-litre four-cylinder, 2.8 and 3.3-litre sixes and two V8s (either 4.2 or 5.0 versions). The Torana underwent a major facelift in 1976, with the introduction of a hatchback variant perhaps the biggest news. Sold in either SL or SS guise, the LX hatchback was equipped with the 3.3-litre six although the bigger V8s were optional. With hatchbacks all the rage in the 1970s, Holden were keen to jump on the bandwagon and even released a unique accessory known as the “Hatch Hutch” that transformed the Torana into a mini camper when fitted. The LX’s interior was completely revised, with a new instrument panel and more supportive seats. The LX was also the first Holden to benefit from Radial Turned Suspension, introduced across the range in March 1977. Relatively few LX hatchbacks were made, with production totalling just 8,527 units prior to the announcement of its successor, the UC Torana, in 1978. The LX Torana is becoming increasingly sought after today, partly due to the rarity – few good ones have survived – and for being indelibly linked to one of the greatest Holden muscle cars of all, the A9X that was so much a part of the Golden Era of Group C racing during the 1970s.