When the Holden HG was released – Australia in 1970

H Series Home

HG Holden

Cost of a new HG

  • Base sedan models started at approximately $4,500–$4,700. Higher spec models such as the Monaro or the Brougham would command a premium brand new as well as on the second hand market.
  • The HG featured subtle styling refinements over the HT, improved suspension, upgraded interiors, and expanded performance options like the Monaro GTS 350
  • The HG Holden was one of the least visually changed cars seen in the Holden line up. Many people cannot tell it apart from the previous model HT Holden.
  • It was a practical yet stylish car, appealing to families and enthusiasts alike
  • Although not as collectible or well known as some of the other earlier Holden models, the HG Holden would establish itself as one of the most reliable early Holden models
  • The HG was the model before the HQ Holden.

Average wage

  • Average weekly wage: about $70–$75
  • Average annual wage: roughly $3,640–$3,900

Average house price

  • Around $15,000–$16,000

Price of petrol

  • About 13 cents per litre

Prime Minister

  • John Gorton (Liberal Party)

Population of Australia

  • About 13 million people

Top-grossing movie

  • Love Story, Patton

Top song

  • Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel topped Australian charts

Significant world event

  • Vietnam War continued to influence politics and society
  • Apollo 13 mission captured global attention

Popular TV / radio in Australia

  • Homicide, Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, Bandstand, and variety shows
  • FM radio expanded, shaping youth music culture

Significant Australian news story

  • Industrial growth, suburban expansion, and rising car ownership dominated headlines
  • The HG Holden reflected Australia’s demand for stylish, reliable, and high-performance family cars

Interesting comparisons

  • The HG Holden cost roughly 1.4–1.5 years’ average wages, making it slightly more premium than the HT
  • The average house cost about 4–4.5 years’ wages
  • Filling a ~45L tank cost roughly $5.85–$6
  • A week’s wages could buy roughly 540–550 litres of petrol
error: Content is protected !!