History
The LH Torana was a significant car for Holden on several levels. It was the first Australian designed and built mid-sized sedan, closer in size to the new HQ than the previous, smaller LC/LJ Toranas, and better suited the local conditions as a result. Well received by the critics and Australian public alike when launched in March 1974, the new Torana was available with an extensive choice of engine, transmission and trim levels. Topping the model range was a performance derivative known as the SL/R (which stood for Sport Luxury/Racing) intended to replace the XU-1. Fitted with a 3.3-litre six as standard, buyers looking for more grunt were also 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. The sporty SL/R package consisted of a blacked-out grille, rear panel, rocker panels and door window trims, plus front disc brakes, anti-roll bars front and rear. There was also a more upmarket interior as standard with a sports steering wheel and full instrumentation. On the ultimate V8-engined SL/R 5000 version there were also front and rear spoilers fitted. This SL/R 5000 package formed the basis of the fearsome L34 homologation special that went on to win Bathurst and numerous Touring Car events in the mid-1970s, with the likes of Peter Brock and Colin Bond at the wheel. Few original SL/R manuals have escaped unmodified over the years, many of them being turned its L34 replicas, thus ensuring original examples like this 3300cc-engined example on offer here are rare.
