On today’s episode of Aussie Garage, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Gavin to talk about his beloved LC Holden Torana S. This car has a rich history and plenty of character, and Gavin’s love for keeping it original makes it a standout in the world of classic cars.
The Story Behind the LC Holden Torana
Gavin purchased his LC Torana in 2019 during the peak of the Covid pandemic through a friend. The car came as you see it today, with most of its charm intact but featuring a few mechanical modifications. What sets this Torana apart is its untouched, original paint, which proudly shows its patina on the bonnet and sides. It’s never been restored or repaired, and Gavin intends to keep it that way.
This Torana’s journey began when it was first purchased new by a gentleman in Tuart Hill from Shacks Holden in Fremantle. After his passing, it was handed down to his granddaughter, and over the years, it changed hands a few times before Gavin’s friend bought it unlicensed. After getting it back on the road, his friend sold it to Gavin, who initially wasn’t looking for a Torana but couldn’t pass up the deal. He had been chasing a four-cylinder steel-bumper car to suit his budget, but the Torana won him over.
A Passion for Cars
Gavin’s love for cars began early, with matchbox cars fueling his imagination as a child. By the time he got his license at 17, he was hooked on owning modified cars and has always had something unique in his collection to cruise around in.
Keeping It Original
While many people have asked Gavin if he plans to restore his Torana, he’s firm in his decision to keep it as-is. “The vehicle is only original once and never again. I want to leave it as is,” he says. This philosophy aligns with his passion for preserving the car’s history.
Gavin has the Torana’s original numbers-matching engine safely stored on a stand in his garage, verified through Holden Historical Services. For now, though, he’s running a modified 202 engine, which features a Blue Engine bottom end and a Red Engine top end, bored out 60 thousand to create a 208 engine. It’s paired with a 390 Holley 4-barrel carburetor, pacemaker extractors, and a mild exhaust system. Despite the engine modifications, the rest of the driveline remains stock, maintaining the car’s originality.
A Step Back in Time
The interior of Gavin’s Torana is like stepping into a time capsule. Everything from the seats to the door cards and dash is original. Gavin has added a couple of gauges for temperature and oil pressure to monitor the engine’s performance, but these were installed in a way that allows for easy removal without damaging the interior, just in case he ever decides to sell the vehicle.
A Nod to History
One unique detail of Gavin’s Torana is the reproduction Shacks Holden sticker on the rear window, created by Stick This Decals in South Australia. Gavin had part of the original sticker left on the car and sent it to Jason at Stick This Decals to replicate. While it may not be an exact match to the original dealer sticker, it looks fantastic and adds a nostalgic touch to the car.
A Car Worth Celebrating
Gavin’s LC Holden Torana is a stunning example of originality and passion. It’s not just a car—it’s a piece of history that tells a story of its previous owners and Gavin’s dedication to preserving its legacy.
Thanks, Gavin, for sharing your ride with Aussie Garage and giving us a glimpse into your world of classic car enthusiasm. This LC Holden Torana is truly a gem, and we’re honored to feature it.
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