Classic Australian Cars

Australia has been the birthplace for many classic cars. It’s a country with a rich automotive history, producing some iconic and hugely popular models over the course of the last century. So here’s a quick look at just a few of the great vehicles that have made their way out of Australia of the years.

Holden Monaro

When you think of Australian cars, Holden will be the first name most people come up with. The company has been operational for over 150 years and has manufactured cars since 1908. Whilst there have been a number of changes within the company during this time, the quality of their vehicles has always remained the same.

One of their most famous models was the Holden Monaro. Over the years it has developed iconic status, leading to a number of generations and copycat efforts. However, the first Monaro rolled off the production line way back in 1968, with the original HK, and even had a brief revival at the start of the new century.

Throughout its many facelifts, this attractive coupe has always been a favourite of motoring enthusiasts in Australia and around the world.

Chrysler Valiant Charger

Created by Chrysler Australia, the Valiant Charger was (initially at least) a no-nonsense muscle car that was the envy of enthusiasts throughout the 1970’s. Whilst later models lost a little of the early lustre, the original VH was something of a revelation and offered a classic appearance with exceptional performance.

The Valiant Chargers were also the model of choice for the Chrysler Australian touring car series, giving you some indication of their speed. This motor sport heritage and attractive design have helped it to become an Australian classic, which is still widely sought after today.

Ford Falcon GT

Pre-dating the Valiant Charger, Ford Australia began developing the legendary Falcon GT in 1967. Another muscle car with an equally strong reputation, this also comes with a strong racing history, having achieved a 1-2 finish at the Bathurst in 1967 and achieving further victories – including a notable win in 1971. As well as offering exception speed and torque, Falcons featured a design that was very much of its time, yet remains distinctive to this day.

In 2007, a car collector purchased a 1971 Falcon GTHO Phase III for $750,000! Still a record for this type of vehicle in Australia, it shows the enduring affection that these racing-designed muscle cars are held in, despite their relatively short run.

Holden Torana

For the final car in this little list, we have another offering from Holden – the massively popular Torana.

Like most other classic vehicles, the Holden Torana underwent a number of changes and updates during its 12 year run from 1967 to 1979. The very first model was loosely based on the Vauxhall Viva, a British classic in its own right. It wasn’t long before they produced a sport version though, introducing the Brabham in 1968.

Primarily though, the Torana remained a 4 door sedan, with occasional 2 and 3 door models being added to the range. Tens of thousands were manufactured throughout the 70’s for the second and third generation vehicles, including the HB, LJ and TA. As with all good things, production on the Torana finally came to an end in 1979. However, it has since become an integral part of Australian motoring heritage; as shown when Peter Brock’s 1974 championship winning Torana sold for $500,000 in 2006.

Of course, these represent just a handful of the amazing cars to have come out of Australia over the past century though and no doubt there will be more to come in the future too. Whilst each one is entirely unique, they will always share the common bond of sharing the same national heritage.