Revolutionary Comeback: The Holden Hero is Getting a Futuristic Revamp That Will Blow Your Mind!
- Replies 10
The Holden Torana, a name that evokes a sense of nostalgia and pride among Australian car enthusiasts, is poised for a thrilling resurgence. However, before you get too attached to the name, let's clarify that this isn't your grandfather's Torana. Queensland businessman and racing aficionado Andrew South is steering this classic into the 21st century, but with a twist – it won't bear the legendary Torana moniker.
Under the banner of his Drive South venture, South is leveraging Australia's low-volume manufacturing laws to breathe new life into the spirit of the Holden LX Torana – the last to roar with V8 power. The project, which is a nod to the past yet firmly planted in the future, aims to craft a vehicle that pays homage to the original while surpassing it in every conceivable way.
The Drive South Hatch, as it's been christened, is set to be a marvel of modern engineering. Imagine a bespoke aluminium chassis paired with composite bodywork, a combination that promises to be not only cost-effective but also stronger and lighter than the steel-bodied original. This isn't just a car; it's a testament to the evolution of automotive technology.
For those who remember the Torana's glory days, including its consecutive Bathurst 1000 victories in 1978 and 1979 with Peter Brock and Jim Richards at the helm, the Drive South Hatch is set to reignite that winning spirit. It's designed with the enthusiast in mind, featuring an integrated roll cage and side impact protection, making it a perfect fit for amateur motorsport enthusiasts who crave a slice of history with their adrenaline rush.
Under the bonnet, the Hatch will house a beastly General Motors Performance-supplied LS3 V8 crate engine, echoing the powerhouses that propelled HSV into the limelight in the late 2000s and the VF Series II Commodore. With a formidable 320kW of power and 580Nm of torque, this car is not just a tribute – it's a force to be reckoned with.
Drivers will have the choice between a six-speed manual (Tremec TR6060) or a six-speed automatic (6L80) transmission, channeling power to the rear wheels through a robust Ford 9-inch limited-slip differential – a significant step up from the Torana's original 'Banjo' differential.
The Hatch doesn't just perform; it looks the part too, with Koya forged aluminium wheels and Wilwood four-piston brake calipers. The suspension system is a symphony of double-wishbone and coilovers at the front, with a multi-link axle at the rear, ensuring a ride that's both exhilarating and refined.
Step inside, and you'll find a cockpit that seamlessly blends classic appeal with contemporary luxury. Drive South promises a digital instrument display, a Kenwood infotainment system, wireless phone charging, and a reverse camera. Leather Recaro seats, air conditioning, power steering, and power windows complete the modern amenities, ensuring that this car is as comfortable as it is captivating.
With an anticipated price tag of around $250,000, the Drive South Hatch is positioned as a premium offering, reflecting the value of a well-preserved original LX Torana Hatch. And for those with a penchant for classic Fords, Mr. South has hinted at plans to recreate iconic Ford Falcons, though details remain under wraps.
For more information on this ambitious project, car enthusiasts can visit the Drive South website. This initiative follows in the footsteps of international efforts like the British firm MST, which has successfully brought the Ford Escort back to life as the MST Mk1 and MK2.
The Torana nameplate may have been discontinued in 1979, with its Sunbird sibling following suit in 1980, and while Holden toyed with the idea of a revival with the TT36 concept in 2004, it never materialized. But now, thanks to Andrew South and Drive South, the spirit of the Holden hero is set to make a groundbreaking comeback.
So, buckle up, members of the Seniors Discount Club, because the Holden hero is not just returning – it's being revolutionized. What are your thoughts on this modern twist to a classic legend? Share your memories of the original Torana and your hopes for this new iteration in the comments below!
Under the banner of his Drive South venture, South is leveraging Australia's low-volume manufacturing laws to breathe new life into the spirit of the Holden LX Torana – the last to roar with V8 power. The project, which is a nod to the past yet firmly planted in the future, aims to craft a vehicle that pays homage to the original while surpassing it in every conceivable way.
The Drive South Hatch, as it's been christened, is set to be a marvel of modern engineering. Imagine a bespoke aluminium chassis paired with composite bodywork, a combination that promises to be not only cost-effective but also stronger and lighter than the steel-bodied original. This isn't just a car; it's a testament to the evolution of automotive technology.
Queensland businessman and racer Andrew South plans to modernise the iconic Holden LX Torana using aluminium and composite materials. Credit: Car Expert
For those who remember the Torana's glory days, including its consecutive Bathurst 1000 victories in 1978 and 1979 with Peter Brock and Jim Richards at the helm, the Drive South Hatch is set to reignite that winning spirit. It's designed with the enthusiast in mind, featuring an integrated roll cage and side impact protection, making it a perfect fit for amateur motorsport enthusiasts who crave a slice of history with their adrenaline rush.
Under the bonnet, the Hatch will house a beastly General Motors Performance-supplied LS3 V8 crate engine, echoing the powerhouses that propelled HSV into the limelight in the late 2000s and the VF Series II Commodore. With a formidable 320kW of power and 580Nm of torque, this car is not just a tribute – it's a force to be reckoned with.
Drivers will have the choice between a six-speed manual (Tremec TR6060) or a six-speed automatic (6L80) transmission, channeling power to the rear wheels through a robust Ford 9-inch limited-slip differential – a significant step up from the Torana's original 'Banjo' differential.
The Hatch doesn't just perform; it looks the part too, with Koya forged aluminium wheels and Wilwood four-piston brake calipers. The suspension system is a symphony of double-wishbone and coilovers at the front, with a multi-link axle at the rear, ensuring a ride that's both exhilarating and refined.
Step inside, and you'll find a cockpit that seamlessly blends classic appeal with contemporary luxury. Drive South promises a digital instrument display, a Kenwood infotainment system, wireless phone charging, and a reverse camera. Leather Recaro seats, air conditioning, power steering, and power windows complete the modern amenities, ensuring that this car is as comfortable as it is captivating.
With an anticipated price tag of around $250,000, the Drive South Hatch is positioned as a premium offering, reflecting the value of a well-preserved original LX Torana Hatch. And for those with a penchant for classic Fords, Mr. South has hinted at plans to recreate iconic Ford Falcons, though details remain under wraps.
For more information on this ambitious project, car enthusiasts can visit the Drive South website. This initiative follows in the footsteps of international efforts like the British firm MST, which has successfully brought the Ford Escort back to life as the MST Mk1 and MK2.
The Torana nameplate may have been discontinued in 1979, with its Sunbird sibling following suit in 1980, and while Holden toyed with the idea of a revival with the TT36 concept in 2004, it never materialized. But now, thanks to Andrew South and Drive South, the spirit of the Holden hero is set to make a groundbreaking comeback.
.png){kind=icon}
