HZ Statesman

Holden’s radial tuned suspension (RTS) - a thorough revision of the suspension and steering components - resulted in a handling and driveability transformation in local cars.

RTS completely overshadowed the other improvements to the facelifted HZ range – an egg-crate design grille, relocated badges, more standard features and new trim.

The 5.0-litre V8’s DIN power output was now 125kW, with improved performance and refinement. It was mated to a three-speed automatic transmission.

Air-conditioning and central locking became standard in April ’78, while a year later the Classic Edition added spoke wire wheels, power windows and metallic paint.

To upset the rebodied XD Falcon-derived ZJ Fairlane, July '79’s SL/E was introduced, sitting between the De Ville and Caprice.

But Statesman could not catch its Ford foe.