1978 HOLDEN HZ GTS SEDAN

LAST OF MODEL – L31 308 V8 – M21 4 SPEED – SURVIVOR CAR WITH BOOKS - FACTORY BROADCAST SHEET

A highly original and increasingly scarce late 1978 Holden HZ GTS Sedan, presented here as a genuine survivor example with matching-numbers driveline and exceptional supporting documentation. Showing just 93,604 kilometres from new and accompanied by its original log books, owner’s manual and factory broadcast sheet, this car sits firmly in the upper tier of preserved Australian muscle. Delivered new through a Holden dealership in Gympie, Queensland, its history includes long-term ownership and periods of careful storage, which have played a significant role in its authenticity today. Acquired by the current owner in 2018 and maintained in climate-controlled conditions since, it represents an honest and unrepeatable example of the final Kingswood-based GTS era — complete, documented and highly collectible.

DRIVELINE

At its core is the original, matching-numbers Holden L31 5.0-litre (308ci) V8 — a defining engine of the era, delivering the torque-rich performance and unmistakable character expected of late-1970s Holden muscle. The engine has is believed reconditioned by prior ownership and presents today in a clean, factory-style engine bay, with all fluids refreshed prior to recommissioning. It is paired with the highly desirable factory M21 four-speed manual transmission, offering an engaging and authentic driving experience, with power delivered through the original Salisbury rear end with 3.36 ratio. Factory power steering, power-assisted brakes and air conditioning further enhance usability, making this a classic that remains genuinely enjoyable in modern conditions.

EXTERIOR

Finished in its original Palais White paint, the exterior presents with the honest patina and character expected of a true survivor approaching five decades of age. The body remains largely untouched and retains its factory form, offering a rare opportunity to either preserve its originality or undertake cosmetic restoration if desired. Correct GTS features remain intact, including front and rear spoilers, optional headlight protectors and body protector strip. The car sits on restored factory GTS wheels fitted with period-style red-striped tyres, completing a highly authentic and era-correct presentation.

INTERIOR

The interior retains its factory black GTS trim and presents as a highly original and well-presed cabin. Key features include the correct GTS dashboard, bucket seats, centre console and GTS steering wheel, all contributing to a genuine period driving environment. Condition throughout is remarkably well preserved, reflecting careful long-term ownership. The boot area remains equally authentic, retaining its original-style rubber mat and correct GTS spare wheel, further reinforcing the integrity and completeness of the vehicle.

SUMMARY

Representing the final evolution of Holden’s traditional V8 sedan platform, the HZ GTS holds a significant place in Australian motoring history. This example stands apart as a true survivor — matching numbers, believed original paint, low kilometres and supported by rare factory documentation including its broadcast sheet. Independently inspected by ICAARS, its authenticity is further reinforced. In today’s market, where originality and provenance are paramount, cars of this calibre are increasingly difficult to find. A compelling opportunity to secure a highly original HZ GTS — equally suited to preservation, enjoyment, or as a benchmark reference example of Australian muscle.