1974 Holden LH Torana SL/R 5000 Sedan

Launched in March 1974, the LH Torana was a significant car for Holden on a number of levels. The first Australian designed and built mid-sized sedan, the LH was closer to the new HQ in overall dimensions than the previous LC/LJ Toranas and better suited the local conditions as a result. The new LH was also the first Holden available with the choice of four, six or V8 engines, with all but the Opel-sourced four-cylinder Australian designed and made.  Well received by the critics and public alike, the new Torana was available in several trim levels, from the base ‘S’ model through to the ultimate high performance package, badged the SL/R (which stood for Sport Luxury/Racing). Replacing the outgoing XU-1, the SL/R was fitted with a 3.3 litre six as standard, while buyers looking for more grunt were able to specify either of the two V8s available (4.2 litre or 5.0 litre) and all came with a four-speed manual gearbox as standard. Other SL/R features included a black-outs on the grille, rear panel, rocker panels and door window trims plus front disc brakes and anti-roll bars front and rear as standard equipment. Along with several interior upgrades, the SL/R was also fitted with 13 x 5.5-inch rims. Badged the SL/R 5000 when optioned with Holden’s 5.0 litre V8, the hero model of the Torana range also benefited from front and rear spoilers and decals, while the heavy duty M21 four-speed was the only transmission available. The SL/R package provided the basis of the fearsome L34 homologation specials that dominated touring car racing in the mid-1970s, with the likes of Peter Brock and Colin Bond at the wheel, scoring memorable back-to-back wins at Bathurst in 1975-1976. Priced at $4415 at the time of its release, few genuine SL/R 5000s remain in original condition and survivors are now sought after collectors items.