Holden Torana I (HB) photos

Debuting in May 1967, the first-generation Holden Torana (HB series) marked General Motors-Holden's serious entry into the burgeoning Australian compact car segment, replacing the fully imported Vauxhall Viva HA. Taking its name from an Australian Aboriginal word meaning 'to fly', the HB initially arrived as a two-door sedan directly adapted from Britain's Vauxhall Viva HB, showcasing contemporary 'coke-bottle' waistline styling. Mechanical motivation came from a durable 1.2-litre (1159 cc) overhead-valve four-cylinder petrol engine producing 56 bhp, paired with a four-speed all-synchromesh manual transmission. Recognizing domestic consumer demand, Holden engineers designed a unique four-door sedan body variant in late 1968, which significantly expanded the car's commercial appeal. That same year saw the debut of the enthusiast-oriented Brabham Torana option pack, featuring twin Stromberg carburetors, distinct side striping, and a sportier exhaust. Available in standard, S, and upmarket SL trims, the HB series firmly established the Torana moniker across Australia and New Zealand before evolving into an entirely domestic, multi-cylinder platform.