1973 Holden HQ Premier 308 V8 Sedan

Description

Announced in July 1971, Holden's landmark HQ represented a major departure from the outgoing HG model range, being entirely new in just about every department. Built around a perimeter chassis - the first seen on a big Australian car - the HQ featured modern styling, new suspension (with coil springs all round to improve the ride and handling) and improved safety courtesy of the stronger body shell and the use of padding inside. The engines, transmissions and steering were also new and buyers could specify ventilated front disc brakes for the first time. Both sixes (173/202-cid) and V8s (253/308/350-cid) were available, with a choice of transmissions ranging from a 3-speed column shift manual, 4-speed console-mounted manual, 3-speed Trimatic or Turbo Hydramatic 400 automatic. Three distinct models were offered, the Belmont, Kingswood and upmarket Premier - the latter being described by Holden's PR as offering "compact luxury", with the emphasis on better equipment levels. The Premier was distinguished by the quad round headlamps and boasted chrome sill plates, leather-grain vinyl trim (bucket seats were optional), pull-down armrests, walnut dash facia, high-loop pile carpets and flow-thru ventilation system. Options included power steering, power windows, rear stereo speakers and Raydo cloth trim. The Premier proved popular with buyers wanting a fully loaded Holden without the added size of the extended wheelbase Statesman and GM-H's advertising proudly proclaimed ?Drive it once and you won't accept anything else."