Holden Caprice I (HJ/HX/HZ/WB) gallery (1974–1985)
The first generation of Holden's flagship long-wheelbase luxury sedan, offered under the Statesman Caprice nameplate.
The first-generation Holden Caprice (initially badged as the Statesman Caprice) was introduced in October 1974 with the HJ series to represent the pinnacle of Australian luxury motoring. Built on a generous 2896 mm long wheelbase shared with full-size Holden station wagons, it featured a dominant chrome grille, distinctive front styling, and an opulent interior fitted with plush velour or Connolly leather. The mechanical package included Australian-made 4.2-litre and 5.0-litre Holden V8 engines, alongside the imported Chevrolet 5.7-litre 350 cubic-inch V8, paired with GM Tri-Matic or Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmissions. The HX update in 1976 adapted to stricter emissions, while the 1977 HZ series introduced Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS), transforming vehicle dynamics. The final WB iteration (1980–1985) introduced a redesigned six-light greenhouse and modernized squared styling. The vehicle was sold across Australia and New Zealand, with exports to South Africa.
