THE STORY Manufactured by Holden from 1967 to 1980, the Torana has a rich history in Australia.
It is largely thought that “Torana” was derived from the Aboriginal word for “flight” meaning “to fly”.
Originally introduced in May of 1967, the first model was a mildly updated version of the HB series Vauxhall Viva. It had a two-door body, 12-inch wheels and a four-cylinder engine.
Successive generations of the model saw the model improve and grow in terms of size, engine and performance. In 1974 Holden released the LH Torana as a 4-door family car available in 4, 6 or 8 cylinder engines.
Top of the tree was the mighty SL/R 5000 (Sport Luxury/Racing) that was fitted with the Aussie-built L31 5.0 litre (308ci) V8 engine. This power plant put out 240 HP and had a top speed of 208 kmph. The car had a 4-barrell Rochester Quadrajet carburettor, an M21 4-speed manual gearbox (automatic optional), limited-slip differential and sat on 13-inch sports steel wheels.
Only 1,705 examples of the LH version were produced between 1974 and 1975 and this model is one of Australia’s most celebrated muscle cars. It became the blueprint for Holden’s track dominance at Bathurst with the subsequent L34 upgrade that came in 1975.
THE CAR A stunning, genuine Holden Torana SL/R 5000 that was produced in Melbourne in the 11th month of 1974.
An original number’s matching car that is designated 8VD69 with the following compliance verification: • L31 5 litre (308) V8 with engine prefix code starting in HT • M21 4 speed manual gear box • GU7 LSD rear differential • Metallic paint 567-15944 (Deauville Blue) • Trim 19X Rainer Herringbone body-cloth insert
The current owners purchased the vehicle from Victoria in 2013 and immediately embarked on an extensive restoration which lasted three years.
The original engine was rebuilt with NOS parts and the following work was done: • Chemically cleaned, balanced and blue printed • Polished and ported • Custom flat-top pistons (APC) installed • Crane cam and lifters installed with a triple row timing chain • Electronic ignition (dash fully upgraded to accommodate) • High torque starter motor • Original four-barrel carby rebuild (now fitted with a Holly carburettor for street driveability) -the original Quadrajet carburettor goes with the car • Flywheel balanced • High flow – low cavitation water pump fitted • Option of 2-piece exhaust manifold was fitted • Original “big nut” brake cylinder fully restored • Multi row fins were fitted to the original sized radiator to reduce overheating • Factory SL/R 5000, L34 manifolds were also fitted
The vehicle has travelled less than 600 km since the engine was rebuilt and it is fresh and powerful to drive.
The car was also resprayed in its factory correct and highly desirable metallic Deauville Blue. The seat belts were renewed (rear passenger seat belts lengthened), the gauges and dash were refurbished and new tyres were fitted at end of the restoration.
It has also been treated to a new hood liner, new rubbers and seals, replacement of the interior seats and new door cards and carpets.
This car retains its original front lower spoiler and rear boot spoiler. It has its original SL/R 5000 trim and fittings.
Only the windscreen and SL/R steering wheel are not original (original wheel was snapped). The factory AWA Pressmatic radio is believed to work but is not connected.
This SL/R 5000 comes with 4 x Jellybean 13” wheels and corresponding wheel nuts and tyres, original distributor, original jack, original air filter and a brand-new genuine Holden oil filter that is still in its wrapping.
Built to keep – not to sell. Personal circumstances are forcing this regretful sale.
A beautiful example of a rare and genuine Holden LH SL/R 5000.
