A Rare Find in Papaya

Matt has owned the Sandman for around 18 months, and while he’s already done plenty to make it his own, he’s got even bigger plans for the future. The standout feature is its colour – Papaya, a rare shade that was only ever released on the HX Sandman and the LX Torana. The paint remains from the previous owner and is still in great condition, though Matt is keen to give it a fresh respray down the track.

Modern Muscle Under the Bonnet

While the Sandman was known for its classic Holden engines, this one packs a modern punch. Under the bonnet sits a 6L LS2 paired with a 6-speed gearbox, sending power through a 9-inch diff – all fitted by the previous owner. Matt has since tidied up the engine bay, making it look just as good as it drives. One clever touch is the shifter – Matt managed to graft the original T-bar onto the modern setup, a subtle but stylish nod to the Sandman’s heritage.

Blending Old-School with Subtle Upgrades

Inside, the van keeps much of its original charm with the classic GTS dash, though Matt has fitted upgraded gauges for better functionality. The rear has been neatly paneled out and carpeted, giving it a clean, finished look without losing its vintage appeal.

The wheels are a modern twist too – billet knock-offs designed to resemble GTS rims. Matt has blacked out sections of the rims to really emphasize the GTS styling, tying the whole look together perfectly.

Built to Cruise

Matt has built plenty of cars over the years, but with the Sandman, you get the sense he’s ready to slow things down and just enjoy the ride. And honestly, there’s no better car for cruising than a Holden Sandman.

We had a fantastic day hanging out with Matt, talking cars, and hitting the road in this Aussie classic. It’s always special to bring cars like this to our audience – vehicles that aren’t just machines, but rolling pieces of Australian history.

Thanks for cruising with us, and stay tuned for more incredible builds from the Aussie car scene.

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The post Matt’s HX Holden Sandman Panel Van – A True Aussie Icon appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

The HJ Premier: A Masterclass in Restoration

First up is Jarrod’s beautifully restored HJ Premier. With a vision of bringing this car back to its original glory, Jarrod and his dad meticulously sourced authentic parts and made use of what they had when necessary. This factory one-off build boasts:

• Tuxedo Black Paint: A flawless, glass-like finish that is absolutely stunning.
• 308 Motor with Turbo 400 Gearbox and Salisbury Diff: True to its factory specifications.
• GTS Wheels: Adding a touch of sporty elegance.
• Interior Features: A woodgrain dash, long-grain seat covers, and door trims, all true to the original design.

The level of detail in this restoration is remarkable. From sourcing the correct hoses and brackets to achieving a finish that exceeds factory standards, the result is truly concourse-level quality. It’s often said that cars didn’t leave the factory looking this good—and this HJ Premier proves it.

The Mustang: A Teenage Dream Realized

The next gem in Jarrod’s collection is a classic Mustang with a unique backstory. Jarrod purchased this car at just 14 years old, and with his dad’s help, they rebuilt it into the immaculate vehicle it is today. Key highlights include:

• BA Falcon-Inspired Blue Paint: A striking color that gives this classic a modern twist.
• Factory Configuration Engine with Chrome Enhancements: A subtle blend of originality and flair, featuring a freshened-up engine with some added bling.
• GT Grill and Wheels: Enhancing the car’s sporty aesthetic.
• Interior Charm: Chrome knobs, a long speedo, and matching blue-painted interior metal create a cohesive and stunning look.

Adding to the Mustang’s allure is its fascinating history. This car was involved in a bank robbery in the United States, making it a fantastic conversation starter and a unique piece of automotive lore.

What’s Next?

While these two vehicles are undoubtedly impressive, there’s still one more car in Jarrod’s collection that we’ll reveal next week. Stay tuned for the next episode to discover the final piece of this incredible trio.

Thank you for joining us today on Aussie Garage. Jarrod and his dad’s dedication to their craft and shared passion for classic cars is truly inspiring. Don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for more incredible car stories!

The post Jarrod’s Stunning Car Collection: A Passion Shared Between Father and Son appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.