The LC Torana was the first car in the second generation of Holden Torana’s making its first appearance in show rooms in October 1969. It would replace the original HB Torana, first seen in Australia in 1967.
The LC built on what the the previous model HB had started. The LC was, by many accounts, a massive forward step for Holden.
Available with both a 4 and 6 cylinder engine as well as an automatic transmission. It would be the first Torana sold with a 6 cylinder engine.
The fullsize Holdens shared the same 6 cylinder engines with the Torana. Costs drove this decision originally. It gave the Torana an impressive power to weight ratio, a trait that would follow the Torana.
The LC seemed larger than the previous model. With just under 75 000 produced, it confirmed to General Motors Holden the presence of a viable market for smaller car. It sold alongside the full size Holden HG/ HQ. Popularity began to grow for the Torana namebadge.
The LC Torana won wheels car of the year for 1969. It would be the first Torana to win the prestigious award. 1970 would then see the release of the Torana GTR XU-1, marketed as a performance car and arguably the most iconic of the Torana models.
In February of 1972, the LJ Torana debuted on showroom floors around the country, subsequently replacing the LC Torana. The LJ would then serve as a minor cosmetic upgrade, the main cosmetic upgrades were to model the looks of the iconic full size HQ Holden, arguably the highest selling Holden ever.
LC Torana’s fetch a premium on the second hand market. Original higher spec models, such as the XU-1 are some of the most sought after, and expensive Holdens money can buy.