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2015 Shannons Melbourne Summer Classic Auction
Lot
39

1977 Holden LX Torana SLR 5000 Sedan

$42,000

Sold

Specifications

Engine V8, 308-cid
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Body Work Sedan
Colour Papaya
Interior Brown
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Steel disc
Brakes Disc/drum

Description

This lot is no longer available

The legendary SL/R 5000 was a performance package first seen on the LH Torana, effectively replacing the XU-1 as Holden's hero car and became the basis of the L34 homologation specials. The SL/R 5000 package consisted of various cosmetic and mechanical upgrades, including front and rear spoilers and a tuned 5.0 V8 under the bonnet. With the release of the facelifted LX Torana in February 1976, Holden made a few mechanical changes, including the introduction of new anti-pollution gear (an increase in the compression ratio from 9:1 to 9.7:1 on the 5.0 V8 ensured no performance was lost) while the switch to radial tuned suspension in early 1977 radically transformed the Torana's handling. While the new hatchback model garnered much of the public's attention, the SL/R 5000 was again the hero car for Holden - particularly when equipped with one of two V8 engines (either the 4.2-litre or 5.0-litre) - and there was no mistaking the high performance model thanks to the front and rear spoilers, distinctive script and blacked-out paintwork. Inside the SL/R (and its SS hatchback sibling) both came with a silver grey fascia and other unique details. The SL/R 5000's V8 was rated at 250 bhp on the LX Torana, with 320 lbs/ft of torque and could be ordered with the Trimatic transmission as an option and was priced at $6485 at the time of its launch. Holden continued to use the Torana as its frontline race car through the latter half of the 1970s, with the famous A9X option homologating the Salisbury back end with rear disc brakes. Although it failed on the first attempt at Bathurst in 1977, Peter Brock and Jim Richards cleaned up in 1978-79 and Holdens dominated the Australian Touring Car Championship during this period.