Cost of a new HR
- Base sedan models started at approximately $3,200–$3,300
- The HR featured subtle yet modernised styling, improved interior space, updated suspension, better brakes, and refined mechanicals
- The main emphasis on the upgrade from the HD Holden to the HR was safety. Changes included a collapsible steering column, shatterproof glass, webber style seatbelts and padded sunvisors. The cars styling was also softened. It would be the first Holden update with safety as the main point of emphasis.
- It remained a practical, stylish, and reliable family car, appealing to suburban families and young professionals
- The HR would be one of the best selling Holdens of all time despite not being on the production line for as long as some of the other top sellers. It was partly a case of being a good car but also the timing in the Australian new car market.
Average wage
- Average weekly wage: about $38–$40
- Average annual wage: roughly $1,976–$2,080
Average house price
- Around $8,500–$9,000
Price of petrol
- About 7 cents per litre
Prime Minister
- Harold Holt (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
- About 11.5 million people
Top-grossing movie
- A Man for All Seasons, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Top song
- Yellow Submarine / Eleanor Rigby by The Beatles topped Australian charts
Significant world event
- Vietnam War involvement escalated; social and political change was accelerating globally
- Space race milestones and cultural shifts influenced media and consumer expectations
Popular TV / radio in Australia
- Skippy the Bush Kangaroo, Homicide, and Bandstand were widely watched
- Radio continued to be important for music and news, especially in regional areas
Significant Australian news story
- Suburban expansion, rising car ownership, and industrial growth dominated headlines
- The HR Holden reflected consumer demand for modern, comfortable, and reliable family vehicles, solidifying Holden’s market leadership
Interesting comparisons
- The HR Holden cost roughly 1.5 years’ average wages, keeping it within reach for middle-class families
- The average house cost about 4.5–5 years’ wages
- Filling a ~40L tank cost roughly $2.80
- A week’s wages could buy roughly 540–550 litres of petrol