Original 1956 Ford Fairlane V8 – A True American Time Capsule

This remarkably original 1956 Ford Fairlane is a genuine survivor, powered by a 292 Y-block V8 and still retaining much of its original paint, interior, chrome and mechanical equipment.

Aussie Garage caught up with Jason at Cleveland Spares in Melbourne to check out this huge left-hand-drive American classic.

A Remarkably Original Ford Fairlane

Originally purchased in Colorado, USA, the Fairlane has been carefully preserved rather than completely restored.

Under the bonnet is the original-style 292 Y-block V8, complete with an oil-bath air cleaner, generator, points ignition and Thunderbird engine badging.

Only essential maintenance has been carried out over the years, including a replacement radiator, thermo fan, exhaust, front shock absorbers and carpet.

The Original AM Radio Still Works

One of the coolest features is the factory valve-operated AM radio, which incredibly still works.

Inside, you’ll also find the original-style dashboard, steering wheel and trim, while outside the huge chrome bumpers, hubcaps and two-tone styling capture everything we love about 1950s American cars.

Fairlane Highlights

• 292 Y-block V8
• Original two-tone styling
• Original interior and dashboard
• Working factory AM radio
• Four-wheel drum brakes
• Thunderbird engine badging
• Original-style Ford hubcaps
• Extensive ownership and service history
• Carefully preserved and regularly driven

Watch on Aussie Garage

Check out the full Aussie Garage episode as we explore this incredible 1956 Ford Fairlane V8 at Cleveland Spares in Melbourne.

Would you keep this Fairlane exactly as it is, or give it a few tasteful upgrades? Let us know in the comments!

#FordFairlane #1956Ford #ClassicFord #ClassicCars #AussieGarage #AussieGarageTV #Ford #Classiccars

The post 1956 Ford Fairlane Time Capsule – Even the AM Radio Works! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

This beautifully restored Holden LX Torana Hatchback has a story unlike most classic cars.

Owner Kim bought the Torana as a rusty wreck and started a complete restoration. But during the engineering and licensing process, he discovered something completely unexpected.

The Torana had been reported stolen in Victoria in 1984.

Thankfully, the original owner was found and the issue was resolved. Kim could then finish the restoration and get the Torana back on the road.

A Classic Holden With Modern Upgrades

Originally an SL with a 202 six-cylinder and automatic transmission, the Torana is now powered by a Holden 308 V8.

It’s backed by a BorgWarner T5 five-speed manual, making it a great old-school V8 cruiser.

Kim has also added several upgrades to make the car easier and more enjoyable to drive.

These include:

• Holden 308 V8
• T5 five-speed manual
• 17×10 rear and 17×8 front hotwire wheels
• BMW 3 Series power steering
• A9X-style front brakes
• Rear disc brakes
• VN Commodore differential
• Truetrac centre
• Air conditioning and heating
• Digital Speedhut gauges
• 2.5-inch stainless exhaust with X-pipe

The classic Torana SS-inspired styling keeps the car looking old-school, despite the modern improvements.

And Kim isn’t finished yet.

A 355 stroker V8 is planned for the future.

More Classics in the Collection

We also check out some of Kim’s other projects.

There’s a very rusty one-owner 1973 Datsun 240Z, an HX Holden panel van, a nearly 100-year-old Ford Model A and a beautiful Jaguar Mk2.

There’s certainly no shortage of future projects!

A Warning for Classic Car Buyers

The Torana’s unusual history also provides an important lesson.

If you’re buying a classic car or restoration project, always check the full chassis or VIN number before spending money on the build.

Kim discovered the Torana’s stolen history during the restoration. Fortunately, everything could be resolved, but it could have been a very different outcome.

Would You Fit the 355?

Kim’s Holden LX Torana is now a great combination of classic Australian styling, V8 power and modern comfort.

The big question is what comes next.

Would you leave the 308 V8 exactly as it is, or fit the planned 355 stroker?

Let us know in the comments.

Follow Aussie Garage for more classic cars, muscle cars, restorations, workshop tours and Australian automotive stories.

#LXTorana #Torana #SSHatch #Holden #HoldenTorana #AussieGarage

The post He Restored This LX Torana—Then Discovered It Was Stolen! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Modified Land Rover Defender TD5 Gets a Bangin’ Headlight Upgrade

Rich’s 2002 Land Rover Defender TD5 is built for serious four-wheel driving and camping, but there was one part of the build letting it down—the headlights.

The Defender was already fitted with aftermarket LED headlights, but their light output simply wasn’t good enough.

After winning the Aussie Garage and Bangin’ Headlights Christmas giveaway, Rich brought the Defender in for an upgrade to a set of Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights.

Traditional Looks, Modern LED Performance

The Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights are designed for enthusiasts who want better lighting without giving their vehicle an overly modern appearance.

They feature:

• Classic glass-lens appearance
• Slim headlight housing
• Warm-white LED light
• Australian right-hand-drive beam pattern
• Simple plug-and-play installation

The traditional design is a great match for the Defender, keeping its classic 4WD appearance while providing a much-needed lighting upgrade.

Old LEDs vs Bangin’ Traditional 7

George demonstrates how easy the headlights are to install before putting them to the test.

Using the workshop wall, we compare Rich’s old generic LED headlights directly against the new Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights.

The comparison shows why choosing the right LED headlight is about more than simply brightness. A good beam pattern helps put usable light where the driver actually needs it while reducing unnecessary glare.

This Defender TD5 Is Far From Standard

While the headlight upgrade brought Rich into the workshop, we couldn’t leave without checking out the rest of his impressive modified Land Rover Defender TD5.

The TD5 turbo-diesel engine has been modified to produce approximately 220 hp and 500 Nm of torque.

It also features an impressive list of off-road upgrades, including:

• Adjustable airbag suspension
• Front and rear winches
• Front and rear lockers
• Beadlock wheels
• Rock sliders
• Upgraded and sound-deadened interior

It’s a Defender that’s been built to actually get out there and be used.

Built for Camping and Touring

Rich has also transformed the Defender into a capable camping and touring setup.

A custom camping canopy and storage system provides plenty of room for equipment and recovery gear, while an onboard water tank and shower awning make longer trips much more practical.

Combined with the extensive off-road modifications, it’s an impressive all-round touring package.

A Better Headlight for a Serious Defender

The Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights finish the Defender off nicely, providing modern LED lighting while retaining the traditional round-headlight appearance.

For classic 4WDs and other vehicles running 7-inch round headlights, they’re an option worth considering if you want improved lighting without losing that old-school look.

Watch the full Aussie Garage feature to see the installation, the old-versus-new headlight comparison and a closer look at Rich’s seriously modified Defender TD5.

#LandRoverDefender #BanginHeadlights #AussieGarage #DefenderTD5 #LandRover #HeadlightUpgrade #LEDHeadlights #4x4Australia #Modified4x4 #OffRoadAustralia

The post The Headlight Upgrade Car Guys Have Been Waiting For appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

After more than three decades apart, original owner Ken has been reunited with the 1978 Holden HZ Sandman he purchased brand new.

Now owned by Matt, this beautifully restored Atlantis Blue panel van still has its original number plates, books and purchase receipt.

However, it is the stories behind the Sandman that make it truly special.

An Australian Adventure Vehicle

Ken used the Sandman as both a work vehicle and a long-distance tourer.

During his ownership, it travelled to Bathurst, Sydney, Coral Bay and Kalbarri. Ken slept in the back, drove it through sand dunes and enjoyed countless adventures across Australia.

It was never treated as a show car. It was built to be used—and Ken certainly made the most of it.

Period Modifications

Ken also made several modifications to the Sandman during his ownership.

These included aircraft landing lights, a Turbo 350 automatic transmission and a locked differential.

Each modification became another part of the vehicle’s unique history.

Powered by a Holden V8

Under the bonnet is Holden’s 4.2-litre V8, better known as the 253.

Hearing that familiar V8 sound again brought back plenty of memories for Ken. The highlight of the reunion came when he climbed into the passenger seat and experienced the Sandman on the road once more.

More Than a Classic Holden

This 1978 Holden HZ Sandman is more than a beautifully restored panel van. It is a piece of Australian motoring history filled with road trips, adventures and personal memories.

Thanks to Matt, the Sandman’s history has been preserved for future generations to enjoy.

A massive thank you to Ken, Matt and Evan for helping Aussie Garage bring this incredible story together.

If you love Holden Sandmans, classic panel vans and genuine owner stories, subscribe to Aussie Garage for more Australian automotive features.

Which classic car from your past would you love to be reunited with? Tell us in the comments.

Visit the Aussie Garage website for more videos, automotive stories and merchandise.

#HoldenSandman #HZSandman #Holden #PanelVan #AussieGarageGet

The post He Bought This Holden HZ Sandman New in 1978—Now He’s Reunited With It! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Some classic cars are special, but this 1978 Holden HZ Sandman is something else.

In this episode of Aussie Garage, Phil catches up with Matt to explore his beautifully restored Atlantis Blue Holden HZ Sandman. Bought new in 1978, this iconic panel van has an incredible history, including a chance encounter that led Matt to reconnect with the original owner’s family.

We take a close look at the Sandman’s 253 V8, factory features, interior, restoration and award-winning presentation, while Matt shares the story behind one of Australia’s most desirable Holden panel vans.

The story doesn’t end there. In the next episode, we join Matt as he meets the original owner for an emotional reunion that every Holden fan will want to see.

If you love Holdens, Sandmans, Australian muscle cars, classic panel vans or survivor cars, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Would you keep the original 253 V8 or swap in a 308? Let us know in the comments!

Show Us Your Ride

Own a vintage, classic or muscle car?

If you’re in Western Australia, Aussie Garage would love to feature your pride and joy. If you’re interstate, get in touch anyway—we’re expanding our filming around Australia and would love to add your car to the list.

#Holden #Sandman #HZSandman #HoldenHZ #ClassicCars #AustralianMuscle #HoldenV8 #PanelVan #ClassicHolden #AussieGarage

The post 1978 Holden HZ Sandman Survivor! Original Owner Found After 48 Years appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

If you love traditional hot rods, this 1929 Ford Model A Hot Rod is one you won’t want to miss.

Featured on Aussie Garage at Cleveland Spares, Sam’s Model A combines timeless styling with classic hot rod performance. Finished in black with subtle red pinstriping, a striking custom red interior and powered by the legendary Flathead V8, it perfectly captures the spirit of traditional hot rodding.

Built to Drive

Unlike many show cars, this Model A is regularly driven to hot rod events across Australia. Sam shares the story behind the build, its imported steel body and why getting out on the road is what owning a classic hot rod is all about.

In This Video

• 1929 Ford Model A Hot Rod walkaround
• Flathead V8 engine
• Imported steel body
• Custom red interior
• Traditional pinstriping
• Sam’s ownership story
• Road trip and event highlights

Watch the Full Feature

Whether you’re into Ford Model A Hot Rods, Flathead V8s, vintage Fords or classic American cars, this feature is packed with inspiration.

A huge thank you to Cleveland Spares and Sam for sharing this incredible traditional hot rod with Aussie Garage.

The post You’ll Love This 1929 Ford Model A Hot Rod | Flathead V8 Powered! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

If you love classic Ford Falcons and Australian muscle cars, this Ford XY GT Replica is one you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Aussie Garage, we visit Motivation Garage and Cleveland Spares to check out a beautifully restored Falcon finished in the iconic Yellow Glow colour. Under the bonnet is the legendary 351 Cleveland V8, paired with a tough Top Loader four-speed manual gearbox, delivering the raw performance and feel that made the XY GT a legend.

Built to Capture the Original GT Spirit

With genuine XY GT Falcons now extremely valuable, high-quality replicas have become a popular way to enjoy the look, sound, and feel of this iconic Australian muscle car.

Marcus from Motivation Garage walks us through the build, explaining the restoration process and the attention to detail required to achieve authentic GT styling.

What You’ll See in This Build

In this workshop tour, we take a closer look at:

• 351 Cleveland V8 engine
• Iconic Yellow Glow paintwork
• GT-style body and interior
• Top Loader four-speed manual gearbox
• Ford 9-inch differential
• Restoration tips and insights
• Cleveland Spares parts supply
• Motivation Garage workshop

Keeping Classic Fords on the Road

Cleveland Spares continues to support classic Ford enthusiasts with quality parts for restoration and maintenance, helping keep these Australian icons alive.

Combined with the craftsmanship of Motivation Garage, this XY GT Replica shows what’s possible when the right parts and passion come together.

Final Thoughts

Whether you dream of owning a genuine Ford XY GT or a well-built GT Replica, this Falcon proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy one of Australia’s greatest muscle car legends.

A big thank you to Marcus from Motivation Garage and the team at Cleveland Spares for giving Aussie Garage an up-close look at this incredible build.

Would you choose a genuine XY GT or a high-quality GT Replica? Let us know in the comments!

#FordXY #XYGT #FordFalcon #351Cleveland #AustralianMuscle #ClassicCars #FordAustralia #MuscleCars #AussieGarage #ClevelandSpares #MotivationGarage #GTReplica #ClassicFord #CarRestoration #FordV8

The post This XY Falcon GT Replica is an Absolute Head Turner! | Motorvation Garage appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Jeremy takes us through the history of the van, its famous airbrushed artwork, its tough burnout setup and the work completed to bring it back mechanically and electrically.

A Legendary Australian Panel Van

VANTASY is more than just a burnout car. It is a well-known part of Australia’s panel van and custom car history.

Australian panel vans became hugely popular during the 1970s and 1980s, with owners adding custom paint, murals, detailed interiors and high-performance engines.

VANTASY continues that tradition with its unmistakable artwork and aggressive burnout setup.

The artwork featured on the van is shown for automotive history and educational purposes. It reflects a particular era of Australian custom car styling and is not intended to offend or promote inappropriate content.

Blown Small Block Chevy Power

Under the bonnet is a blown small block Chevy running on methanol, built to make serious power and destroy tyres.

The engine is backed by a tough Powerglide transmission and a Ford 9-inch differential.

This is a proven combination for burnout competition, providing strong power, simple gear changes and reliable wheel speed.

Jeremy explains that building a burnout car is not only about horsepower. The engine must also survive high RPM, extreme heat and limited airflow while the car is surrounded by tyre smoke.

Methanol Burnout Engine Setup

Methanol is commonly used in high-powered burnout and racing engines because it offers strong cooling properties and resistance to detonation.

However, methanol engines require careful tuning and regular maintenance.

The fuel system must supply a much greater volume than a petrol setup. Methanol can also contaminate engine oil and absorb moisture, making frequent inspections and oil changes important.

Oil Control and Engine Reliability

Oil control is one of the biggest challenges in a burnout car.

As the car changes direction, oil can move away from the pickup inside the sump. Even a short drop in oil pressure at high RPM can cause serious engine damage.

A correctly designed sump, effective baffling and regular oil checks help protect the engine.

Cooling is also critical. Burnout cars operate at high RPM while moving slowly, so there is very little natural airflow through the radiator.

The entire cooling system must be designed to work under extreme conditions.

Diff Gearing and Burnout Performance

Differential gearing has a major effect on how a burnout car performs.

The correct ratio must suit the engine’s power, tyre size, transmission and desired wheel speed.

A shorter ratio can help the engine reach its power range quickly, while a taller ratio may provide more wheel speed. The combination must allow the driver to maintain RPM without overstressing the engine.

Burnout Car Safety

Burnout cars combine high horsepower, spinning tyres, extreme heat and reduced visibility.

Important safety equipment may include:

• Roll cage
• Racing harnesses
• Fixed-back competition seat
• Fire extinguisher or suppression system
• Electrical isolation switch
• Fuel shut-off system
• Tailshaft loop
• Driver helmet and safety clothing

Safety requirements vary between events, so owners should always check the current rules before competing.

Inside the SSAR Workshop

While visiting SSAR, we also looked around the workshop and checked out several impressive builds.

The workshop included tough Holden projects, street cruisers, burnout cars, LS engines, Holden 355 strokers and a Hemi build.

It was a great example of the variety found in Australian performance workshops, from classic V8 builds to modern engine conversions.

Is VANTASY Australia’s Most Iconic Burnout Van?

VANTASY combines Australian panel van history with modern burnout performance.

Its 1971 HG Panel Van body, famous artwork and blown methanol small block Chevy make it instantly recognisable.

There have been many legendary burnout cars in Australia, but few have the same history, appearance and personality as VANTASY.

Let us know in the comments:

Is VANTASY one of the most iconic panel vans in Australian burnout history?

Thanks to SSAR

A massive thank you to Jeremy and the team at SSAR — South Street Auto Repairs for welcoming Aussie Garage into the workshop and giving us the opportunity to get up close with VANTASY.

Make sure you check out SSAR and support the businesses helping to build and preserve Australian automotive culture.

Show Us Your Ride

Do you own a vintage, classic, custom or muscle car with an interesting story?

Aussie Garage is looking for vehicles and owners to feature.

Those based in Western Australia can contact us about arranging an interview. We are also collecting contacts from other parts of Australia for future filming trips.

Watch the full episode, subscribe to Aussie Garage and share the video with another automotive enthusiast.

We’ll see you in the garage.

#VANTASY #SSAR #BurnoutCars #HGPanelVan #Holden #BlownChevy #AustralianMuscle #PanelVan #CarCulture #WorkshopTour #AussieGarageTV

The post Australia’s Most Iconic Burnout Van! VANTSY Up Close appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

In this episode of Aussie Garage, we visit Art Tech Suspension in Melbourne to meet Arthur and check out his beautiful 1965 Ford Mustang convertible.

This Mustang is a genuine factory triple black California car. It is finished in Raven Black with a black interior and black convertible roof, giving it a timeless classic look.

While the body and interior have been kept mostly original, the car has been upgraded where it matters. The suspension, brakes, engine, transmission and differential have all been improved to make it more reliable and enjoyable to drive.

A Classic Mustang Built to Enjoy

Under the bonnet is a classic 289 Windsor V8.

The engine has been upgraded with improved heads, a camshaft, manifold and a Holley 600 carburettor. It is not a wild race car, but a well-sorted cruiser built to be enjoyed on the road.

With the roof down and the V8 running, this is exactly what classic Mustang motoring is all about.

Inside Art Tech Suspension

Arthur has almost 40 years of experience in steering and suspension.

Through Art Tech Suspension, he works on classic cars, muscle cars, drag cars and modern vehicles. His focus is on helping owners get their cars sitting, steering and handling the way they should.

An Amazing Automotive Man Cave

Arthur also shows us through his impressive workshop and man cave.

The place is packed with automotive memorabilia, including vintage service station items, model cars, signs, collectables and an old telephone box.

One of the standout pieces is a penny-farthing bicycle dating back to the 1880s, adding even more history and character to the workshop.

Watch the Full Episode

A huge thank you to Arthur for welcoming Aussie Garage into Art Tech Suspension and sharing his Mustang, workshop and story with us.

If you love classic Mustangs, muscle cars, workshop tours and real car stories, make sure you watch the full episode.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Aussie Garage, hit the notification bell and share the video with your friends to help grow the community.

#FordMustang #Mustang #ClassicCars #ClassicMustang #AussieGarageTV #ManCave #MuscleCars

The post Inside One of Melbourne’s Coolest Automotive Man Caves! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

In this episode of Aussie Garage, we return to Cleveland Spares in Victoria to catch up with Cass and Rob and check out two very special builds.

The first is a Mk2 Ford Cortina sleeper with a Cleveland V8. The plan is to remove the drag-car look, fit standard-style wheels, add a flat bonnet and make it look like a basic old Cortina.

But underneath, it will be hiding the Cleveland V8 that was previously used in Rob’s XC Falcon. From the outside it will look grandpa-spec, but once it starts, everyone will know it is something very different.

A Historic 1923 Ford T-Bucket

We also take a look at an incredible steel-bodied 1923 Ford T-Bucket.

Originally built in Victoria in 1968, this hot rod was pulled apart and stored away for decades. It has now been pieced back together using most of its original parts.

The car still features its Ford Y-block engine, three-speed Top Loader, nine-inch diff and chrome suspension components.

It is a great example of Australian hot rod history being saved and brought back to life.

Cleveland Spares Keeps Classic Fords Alive

Cass and Rob also share updates from Cleveland Spares, including their growing parts range, local cruise nights and classic Ford projects.

Cleveland Spares is more than just a parts supplier. It is a place that supports classic Ford owners, restorers and enthusiasts who want to keep these old cars on the road.

A massive thank you to Cass, Rob and everyone who brought their vehicles along for another great day of filming.

Watch the Full Episode

Watch the full Aussie Garage episode to see the Cleveland V8 Cortina sleeper, the 1923 Ford T-Bucket and more from Cleveland Spares.

Follow Cleveland Spares here:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php

Aussie Garage brings you classic cars, muscle cars, workshop tours, owner stories, event coverage and more from Australia’s automotive community.

Subscribe to Aussie Garage on YouTube and join the Aussie Garage family.

#FordCortina #CortinaV8 #Cleveland #HotRod #ClassicFord #AussieGarageTV

The post V8 Cortina Sleeper Build & Forgotten 1960s Hot Rod! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.