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.

The Aussie Garage crew recently caught up with Ann and Anton to check out their impressive new custom-built shed and their latest restoration project – a largely original 1979 Holden VB Commodore.

After completing their HQ One Tonner build, the pair were ready for a new challenge. Their goal is to restore the VB the old-school way, keeping as much of its original character as possible while tackling rust repairs, mechanical work and period-correct styling.

A Shed Built for Classic Cars

The new workshop is every enthusiast’s dream, featuring a huge shed extension, a brand-new 4-post hoist and plenty of room for future projects. It’s also packed with automotive memorabilia, vintage tools and family treasures that make the space truly unique.

More Than Just a Commodore

During our visit we also checked out:

• A future Holden 253 V8 engine build
• Ann’s beautifully restored 1970 Honda QA50 minibike
• Rare automotive and family memorabilia
• Future plans for a Holden Statesman restoration

Keeping Holden History Alive

What makes this project special is the focus on preserving a classic Australian car rather than heavily modifying it. Ann and Anton are passionate about keeping Holden history alive and building cars their own way.

We’re looking forward to following the progress of this Holden VB Commodore restoration as it comes back to life.

Question for Holden Fans

Would you keep the original Holden six-cylinder engine or swap in a V8?

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The post Holden VB Commodore Resto | Aussie Couple Build Dream Shed & Classic Cruiser Project appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.