THE STORY

Produced between 1974 and 1980, the Sandman concept was aimed squarely at the Aussie male youth market and proved an instant hit with the sand and surf culture of the time.

An instant Aussie icon, the Sandman featured elements of the Monaro GTS including gauge cluster, steering wheel, bucket seats and wheels.

Special features included a choice of V8 engines – either a 4.2 litre (253ci) or 5.0 litre (308ci) – coupled to a 4-speed manual transmission or an optional 3-speed Tri-matic auto.

The Holden HJ was produced between 1974 and 1976 and superseded the HQ. The special Sandman option code was noted as XX7 and available only on the panel van.

The cars had a fully furnished interior, vinyl stripes and were adorned with the distinctive “Sandman” logo.

They have a huge cult following and genuine examples are extremely sought after in today’s market.

THE CAR

A beautiful, fully restored 1976 Holden HJ Sandman finished in Bordeaux Metallic with a fantastic black vinyl interior. The paint is in excellent condition with a deep luster.

This is a genuine XX7 Sandman with a Holden Heritage Certificate that has the extremely desirable option of a Holden 308ci V8 engine coupled to the car’s original M21 4-speed manual gearbox. The engine has just had a full rebuild and is only just being run in. This car has a strong V8 exhaust note.

Inside, the car is in fantastic condition and has its correct GTS dash, steering wheel and buckets seats.

The carpets, seat trims, door cards and headlining have all been fully restored. The rear bed has been fully painted to factory correct specification.

The Holden Historical Services Production Report reveals the following:

Model option: 8WM70 XX7

Body number: 387149B

1917-19V: Bordeaux/Black Trim Combination

Order lodged through the Queensland zone office – sold by A. C. McGrath & Co Pty Ltd, Liverpool (the car still has the dealer’s sticker on the rear window).

Production date was: 1^st June 1976

Engine: 5.0 litre V8

Transmission: M21 2.54:1 first gear; hi-performance 4-speed manual

Steering: standard ratio

Brakes: power assisted front disc

Rear axle: 3.08:1 Salisbury type

Differential: limited slip

Produced at GMH’s Acacia Ridge, Brisbane plant – born on 1^st June 1976.

The car comes with its original owner’s manual, reproduction owner’s guide and associated paraphernalia.

A special piece of Australian automotive history and a blast to drive.