Australian Car Spotters Guide - 1978 |
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Also see: Chrysler Valiant Car Reviews and CM Valiant Specifications |
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The last re-styling and packaging of the 1971 VH design was to be seen in the CM Series Valiant – unfortunately this would also be the last of the prestigious lineage of Valiant’s that had graced our shores since 1962’s introduction of the “R” series. Chrysler had always been the weaker of the “Big Three”, and the first to succumb to the might of Japanese mimickers. Our loss was their gain – and with the CM Series the Valiant would pass into lore as one of the most robust, solid performing and elegantly beautiful cars to ever grace Australian highways. |
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Also see: Ford Falcon XK to XC Car Reviews and Falcon XC Specifications |
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The GS and Fairmont hardtop models remained in the Falcon XC lineup, although they
were rather more subdued than previous iterations. A new grille
was used, and the Fairmont version also gained the handsome
rectangular headlights. However the interior was rather more refined, and in being
so lost a little of the sportiness one had come to expect
from a hardtop.
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Also see: Holden Gemini Car Reviews and TD Gemini Specifications |
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The Gemini was being upgraded and released as a new
model in quick succession in the late 1970's. Just 3 years
after its initial release the 3rd model was introduced
as the TD. The most noticeable visual change was the introduction
of more attractive and up-market looking square headlights.
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Also see: Holden Torana Car Reviews and UC Torana Specifications |
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The UC was unfortunately the last model in the Torana
lineup. The most obvious changes over the previous model
LX were in the front end re-styling, which featured
a new grille and rectangular headlights. Modifications
were also made to the tail-lights and interior, the
latter offering increased room and superior appointments. Undeniably a more handsome car than the model it replaced,
Holden decided that the UC would never be fitted with
a V8. While many were left mourning the demise of the
LX, the decision to drop the V8 from the options list
enabled Holden engineers to make structual modifications
significantly reducing body weight. This in turn led
to improved performance and economy. |
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Also see: Holden Commodore Car Reviews and Holden VB Commodore Specifications |
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The VB Commodore of 1978 was to replace the aging
HZ model, an update of the model line first introduced
with the HQ Holden in 1971. The base level Commodore
came with the 2.8 ltr. 6 cylinder motor coupled to
a 4-speed manual transmission. Engine options available
at the time of introduction included the 3.3 liter
6 cylinder and 4.2 liter V8 engines. You could also
upgrade to a Tri-Matic auto, corded cloth interior,
power steering and air conditioning.
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