When the Holden LJ Torana was released – Australia in 1972

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LJ Torana

Cost of a new Holden LJ Torana

  • Base models started at approximately $3,200–$3,400
  • The LJ Torana featured updated styling, improved suspension, and more powerful engine options including the 6-cylinder variants
  • Optional features included air conditioning, upgraded trim, automatic transmission, and sportier performance packages
  • It targeted young families and enthusiasts seeking a compact, practical car with sporty appeal
  • The LJ Torana was sold alongside the very popular HQ Holden.

Average wage

  • Average weekly wage: about $130–$140
  • Average annual wage: roughly $6,760–$7,280

Average house price

  • Around $19,000–$20,000

Price of petrol

  • About 40 cents per litre

Prime Minister

  • William McMahon (Liberal Party until December), then Gough Whitlam (Labor Party)

Population of Australia

  • About 13.8 million people

Top-grossing movie

  • The Godfather

Top song

  • American Pie by Don McLean topped Australian charts

Significant world event

  • End of the Vietnam War escalating, political change in Australia with the Whitlam government elected
  • International focus on economic development and social reform

Popular TV / radio in Australia

  • Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, Homicide, The Don Lane Show
  • FM and AM radio, along with television, shaped popular culture

Significant Australian news story

  • Political transition with Gough Whitlam becoming Prime Minister

Interesting comparisons

  • The LJ Torana cost roughly 0.5 years’ average wages
  • The average house cost about 3 years’ wages
  • Filling a ~50L tank cost roughly $20 AUD
  • A week’s wages could buy roughly 325–350 litres of petrol
  • The LJ Torana represented early-1970s trends: compact, sporty, and practical vehicles appealing to young drivers and families
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