Introduced in October 1977 and running through to 1980, the HZ Holden built upon the HX platform with meaningful mechanical upgrades rather than major styling changes. Most notably, the HZ introduced Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS) — a significant leap forward in handling, ride comfort, and braking stability.
HZ Holden Model Range Overview
The HZ Holden range was available in:
- Sedan
- Wagon
- Utility
- Panel Van
- Coupe (Monaro – final appearance)
- Long-wheelbase luxury sedan (Statesman)
Trim levels included:
- Base (Standard)
- Belmont
- Kingswood
- Premier
- Monaro
- Statesman / Statesman DeVille
- Utility & Panel Van variants
HZ Base (Standard)
Description
The Base HZ was aimed at government and fleet buyers, focusing on durability and simplicity.
Engine Options
- 3.3L inline-six (202 cu in)
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual (column shift)
- Optional Trimatic 3-speed automatic
Key Features
- Vinyl bench seating
- Minimal exterior trim
- Rubber floor coverings
- RTS suspension (standard across HZ range)
Buyer Notes
Base models are scarce today and often overlooked, making them appealing budget entry points into classic Holden ownership.
HZ Belmont
Description
The Belmont continued as the value-focused trim, commonly used by fleets but also sold to private buyers.
Engine Options
- 202 inline-six
- 4.2L V8 (253 cu in)
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- Optional Trimatic automatic
Key Features
- Basic interior trim
- Chrome bumpers and grille
- Front disc brakes standard
Buyer Notes
V8 Belmonts are uncommon and desirable for their sleeper appeal.
HZ Kingswood
Description
The Kingswood was the most popular HZ variant and the backbone of Holden sales.
Engine Options
- 202 inline-six
- 253 V8 (4.2L)
- 308 V8 (5.0L)
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- Optional Trimatic automatic
Key Features
- Improved interior materials
- Broader factory option list
- RTS suspension standard
Buyer Notes
The Kingswood strikes a balance between affordability, comfort, and mechanical simplicity.
HZ Premier
Description
The Premier was Holden’s luxury offering below the Statesman, aimed at buyers seeking comfort and prestige.
Engine Options
- 202 inline-six
- 253 V8
- 308 V8
Transmission Options
- Trimatic automatic (most common)
- Manual rare
Key Features
- Plush interior with woodgrain trim
- Upgraded upholstery and carpets
- Power steering commonly fitted
Buyer Notes
Premiers are excellent long-distance cruisers and remain undervalued compared to earlier luxury Holdens.
HZ Monaro
Description
The HZ Monaro marked the final appearance of the original Monaro coupe, making it historically significant.
Monaro Variants
- Monaro
- Limited GTS packages (very rare)
Engine Options
- 202 inline-six
- 253 V8
- 308 V8
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- Trimatic automatic
Key Features
- Two-door coupe body
- Sport-oriented suspension tuning
- Distinctive pillarless doors
Buyer Notes
HZ Monaros are highly collectable due to their end-of-era status.
HZ Statesman & Statesman DeVille
Description
The Statesman continued as Holden’s long-wheelbase luxury flagship.
Engine Options
- 253 V8
- 308 V8 (standard on DeVille)
Transmission Options
- Trimatic automatic (standard)
Key Features
- Extended wheelbase for rear-seat comfort
- Higher-grade interior trim
- DeVille models featured vinyl roofs and additional luxury features
Buyer Notes
Statesmans are ideal for buyers chasing comfort and uniqueness rather than outright performance.
HZ Utility & Panel Van
Description
The HZ utility and panel van remained extremely popular with tradespeople and motorsport enthusiasts.
Engine Options
- 202 inline-six
- 253 V8
- Rare 308 V8
Transmission Options
- 3-speed manual
- Optional Trimatic automatic
Buyer Notes
Factory V8 commercial HZs are increasingly valuable and hard to find unmodified.
Engines & Transmissions Explained
Engines
- 202 inline-six (3.3L) – Reliable, economical, and easy to maintain
- 253 V8 (4.2L) – Smooth torque delivery, durable design
- 308 V8 (5.0L) – Most powerful HZ option, highly desirable today
Transmissions
- 3-speed manual
- Trimatic 3-speed automatic
What to Look for When Buying an HZ Holden
- Rust in sills, plenum chamber, floor pans and boot areas
- Suspension bush wear (RTS components should be intact)
- Brake condition, particularly rear drums
- Original engine and emissions equipment
- Interior trim availability for Premier and Statesman models
Why the HZ Holden Is So Highly Regarded
The HZ Holden is often praised as the best-handling large Holden of the 1970s, thanks to RTS suspension and incremental refinement. It remains an excellent classic for both collectors and regular drivers.