The Holden LX Torana, produced from 1976 to 1978, represents one of the most iconic eras of the Torana line. Building on the LH’s success, the LX introduced modernized styling, enhanced comfort, and expanded performance options. With options ranging from practical sedans and wagons to high-performance SL/R 5000 coupes, the LX Torana catered to a wide variety of buyers—from families to muscle car enthusiasts.
LX Torana Body Styles
The LX Torana was offered in several body styles:
- 2-door coupe
- 4-door sedan
The SL/R 5000 and A9X are the most sought-after today, thanks to their performance pedigree and limited production numbers.
LX Torana Trim Levels
1. Holden LX Torana Sunbird
Overview
The Sunbird trim was designed for practicality and affordability.
Engine Options
- 1.9L inline-4 (1868cc)
- 2.85L inline-6
- 4.2L V8
- 5.0L V8
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual (column shift)
- 4-speed manual (floor shift, limited to sedans/coupes)
- 3-speed automatic (optional)
Features
- Basic interior with bench seats
- Steel wheels with hubcaps
- Manual drum brakes
- Minimal chrome or trim features
2. Holden LX Torana S
Overview
The S trim added comfort and aesthetic improvements over the Sunbird.
Engine Options
- 1.9L inline-4 (1868cc)
- 2.85L inline-6
- 4.2L V8
- 5.0L V8
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual (floor shift)
- 3-speed automatic
Features
- Improved upholstery and trim
- Optional AM/FM radio and heater
- Chrome exterior accents
- Better suspension components for ride comfort
3. Holden LX Torana SL
Overview
The SL trim offered a sportier feel without the full performance hardware of the SL/R 5000.
Engine Options
- 1.9L inline-4 (1868cc)
- 2.85L inline-6
- 4.2L (253) V8
- 5.0L (308) V8
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual (floor shift)
- 3-speed automatic (optional)
Features
- Bucket seats and sport-oriented interior
- SL badging and exterior trim enhancements
- Optional alloy wheels
- Upgraded suspension and brakes for better handling
4. Holden LX Torana SL/R 5000
Overview
The SL/R 5000 was Holden’s top-performance variant and a legend among muscle car enthusiasts, particularly in the GTR coupe form.
Engine Options
- 5.0L (308ci) V8 – high-performance with racing heritage
- 4.2L (253ci) V8 – occasionally fitted in early coupes
Transmission Options
- 4-speed manual (floor shift)
- 3-speed automatic (rare)
Features
- SL/R 5000 badging and racing stripes
- Heavy-duty suspension and upgraded brakes
- Alloy wheels and full interior enhancements
- Bucket seats with racing-inspired trim
- Limited production numbers, especially the GTR models, make this trim highly collectible
LX Torana Engines Explained
The LX Torana continued Holden’s tradition of offering versatile engines. It was one of the very few cars worldwide to be available as a 4, 6 and an 8 cylinder:
- Inline-4 engines
- Economical
- Cheap to run and maintain
- Inline-6 engines
- Reliable and smooth
- Suitable for sedans, wagons, and vans
- V8 engines (253 & 308)
- SL and SL/R models featured V8 engines for muscle car performance
- 308ci V8 in SL/R 5000 GTR coupes produced legendary power and is highly sought after
- Strong aftermarket and racing support
Buying an LX Torana: Key Considerations
- Rust: Inspect sills, wheel arches, floor pans, and tail sections carefully
- Engine authenticity: Verify if the V8 matches the SL/R trim
- Transmission choice: Manuals preferred by collectors; automatics were less common in high-performance models
- Body style rarity: SL/R 5000 GTR coupes are the most collectible
- Interior condition: SL and SL/R trims have upgraded interiors that impact value
LX Torana vs LH Torana
The LX Torana refined the LH platform with sharper styling, updated interiors, and enhanced performance options. The introduction of the SL/R 5000 GTR solidified the Torana’s place in Australian muscle car history, with more advanced suspension, brakes, and V8 tuning over the LH.