“Holden means a great deal to Australia” was Aussie comedian Dave Hughes’ winning line. Who could possibly forget the numerous advertisements he did for Holden, such as this one?
But there are a few more quintessentially Aussie cars that mean a great deal to Australia.
1. The staple Holden Commodore 1983
It may have only had a short life (manufactured from 1981-1983), but it was of the first generation of the Australian made models. Deceased by 1984, it was replaced by the much faster Holden VK Commodore.
This is a friends,,commodore,,,1983 Holden,,has a, v8 ,,completely restored,, nice one pic.twitter.com/8WwXYyXWuv
— *scp-custompolishing (@white76_l) October 22, 2015
2. The Ford Falcon panel van
Used by surfies and hippies alike, this was a great Australian staple during its heyday of the 60s and 70s, popularity waned in the 80s. The last known manufactured was in 1999.
1976 XA FORD FALCON PANEL VAN – ORIGINAL SALES BROCHURE (5) EXCELLENT COND pic.twitter.com/qIvoWQT3PI
— extremely gorgeous r (@trejtimoteo) June 27, 2015
3. Ford Ranger
An Australian beauty that has lasted the test of time. A favourite of the Australian tradie, farmer and builder.
My 94′ Ford Ranger turns 21 today. Original owner 185k miles. pic.twitter.com/QlKRUvD4Yt
— Garage Beer (@darin_schroeder) November 4, 2015
4. The Ute
The bad boy of the road known for its fast V8 engine and speed. A staple car of the young Aussie man, its image has been slightly tarnished due to its involvement in a high number of road accidents.
2015 Holden Ute SV6 Storm VF Auto MY15 red – Google Search https://t.co/PhSXrMjPoV pic.twitter.com/oBbwQ00Mdb — Dean Johnson (@ForeverHFL) October 31, 2015
5. Toyota Corolla
No mention of Australian cars would be complete without the Toyota Corolla. This is a family classic that has stood the tests of time and is still available on the market. It was number 3 in 2012’s most popular vehicles. Manufactured in 1966 by 1997 it became the bestselling nameplate in the world.
Now a bestseller, the first generation launched in October 1966. #Toyota #Corolla pic.twitter.com/mR6UrNppT7 — Huntington Toyota (@ToyotaofHunt) October 29, 2015
Interested in buying one of these vintage beauties, or perhaps a newer vehicle? Be sure to check these smashing deals on Gumtree.
Top photo by Flickr.com/Michael Coghlan