1972 Holden LJ GTR XU1 Torana
HIGHLIGHTS: – Genuine XU1 Torana – NZ Delivered car from new – Same family owned since 1988 – Factory Chateau Mauve with black interior – Rebuilt 3300cc six cylinder engine with triple carbs – Correct XU1 head rebuilt for unleaded – M21 four speed manual transmission – 13” Globe wheels – Only 58,900 miles from new – Inspected by ICAARS
This 1972 Holden LJ GTR XU1 Torana is a neat example of a legendary Aussie muscle car. The XU1 made its name in racing and represented a change in philosophy from the big displacement V8 sedans to a smaller, lighter and more nimble but still powerful 6 cyl. The risk paid off with the ‘Giant Killer’ XU1 taking a win at Bathurst in 1972 at the hands of Peter Brock. Since then, these little cars have been highly sought after by collectors and enthusiast.
This particular car was built in November of 1972 from GMH’s Elizabeth plant in Adelaide. It was built as an Export model and sent to New Zealand to be sold new with the car being first registered in NZ during March of 1973. The car was purchased by the father of the current owner in 1988 who was a well-known mechanic, race car tuner and driver during the 60/70’s. At the time he was head mechanic to Paul Fahey and Ralph Emson who were professionally racing works Holden Torana XU-1’s in New Zealand. During this role he became an expert in XU1 Toranas. When he purchased the vehicle, it had done just over 57,000 miles and it remained in his car collection until he passed away after a long illness in 2006. The car was inherited by his son who is the current owner and exported to Perth, WA in 2006. In 2008 the car was placed in Whiteman Park Motor Museum in Perth, initially on a 6-month loan, it remained there until late 2022. During this time the vehicle was removed for general servicing and small runs to ensure it wasn’t left sitting.
In the late 90s – early 2000s the XU-1 was repainted in its original colour of Chateau Mauve to fix up some minor scratches it had gained over the years. The car has the correct XU1 black outs, decals, fluted guards and front and rear spoilers. The paint presents well in general but does show some minor signs of age around the car. The car sits on a set of factory style 13” Globe wheels.
The interior of the car is also very well presented in a factory style without any obvious signs of modification. The black vinyl on the seats and door trims are in good condition. The black provides a nice contrast to the exterior and the original gauge cluster shows only 58,900 miles from new.
Under the bonnet you will find a neatly detailed engine bay. In the middle lives a period correct 3300cc six cylinder engine which was rebuild and freshened with new rings and seals. Importantly, the correct cast number XU1 Specific head remains in place with hardened valve seats to suit unleaded fuel. He also rebuilt the carbs at the same time. The engine is paired to a factory four speed manual transmission and power is fed to the rear wheels through the factory diff.
This is a very neat and low milage example of a rare and iconic Aussie muscle car. The car has been independently inspected for authenticity by ICAARS. These cars don’t come up for sale very often so be sure to register and bid if you want to see this one parked in your garage.
FOR REGISTRATION ASSISTANCE PLEASE CALL 0403 935 488 SEVEN82MOTORS Classics, Lowriders & Muscle Cars are based on the Gold Coast, Queensland and offer some of the most sought after cars in Australia.
PLEASE CALL LOCKY MCCANN WITH SALES ENQUIRIES ON 0403 935 488
IMPORTANT: Vehicle information is provided to us by the consignee. We do everything we can to qualify the best cars in the Australian market to represent on consignment for private sellers however, they are still old cars and we can’t capture everything in the photos, we don’t drive them any significant distance and can’t know everything about them. It is the responsibility of the buyer to have thoroughly inspected the vehicle, and to have satisfied themselves as to the condition and value and to purchase based upon that judgement solely. Vehicles may have been sitting for some time and it is suggested that to protect your investment, you allow to change fuel, oil, fluids, filters and inspect brakes prior to use. All vehicles are sold under standard auction conditions, consignment and auction vehicles are sold as is, without registration unless otherwise stated and there is no cooling off period or warranty expressed, written or implied. All sales are final. Independent inspections are welcome and strongly encouraged to help with your decision making.
Located at 2 Palings Court, Nerang on the Gold Coast. Inspections by appointment during auction and public openings/viewing as advertised.
