1978 Holden HZ SX review from Australia and New Zealand
"Was, is, and always will be, an Australian icon"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Blown starter motor in 2000, but this was the original from 1978 so I can live with that.
Rusted exhaust, once again par for the course.
Leaky inlet manifold, making it impossible to set an idle.
Worn universal joints, once again from original.
General comments?
I bought the Kingy off a mate for $500, after having him and his four brothers and sisters learn how to drive in it over a twenty year period. Have spent over $1000 on it now getting it in good running order.
Still remains the most fun car I have ever driven, it is roomy, comfortable, and is incredibly reliable. Apart from the blown starter motor, the thing has never stopped running. Has done Adelaide/Melbourne a couple of times since I've had it and has not missed a beat.
Everyone bags the 202 for being thirsty, but if they are well tuned and driven sensibly then they are not so bad for the size of the car.
Extractors fitted make the pickup much better, and don't make it any more expensive to run.
Panels are getting harder to find - unlike the HQ there were relatively few made, and the "Rare Spares" type dealers are not afraid of charging like wounded bulls.
If it weren't a violation of God's law then I'd marry this car.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 202 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 278000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 310000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Capri |
| Date of Entry | 10th September, 2001 |