1978 Holden Gemini Panelvan (base model) 1.6 inline SOHC four

Summary:

Sleep in it, race it, fang it, drive it, love it

Faults:

Like most Geminis with fat tyres, the torque tube has suffered with repeated abuse off the line - however, that said, their differentials are extremely good, so torque tube breakage is easily dealt with.

The seats often work themselves loose - every six months or so...

The high beams turn on when I indicate with the headlights on.

The rear bumper needs some help to stay on - panel van bumpers are prone to abuse being commercial vehicles.

The head gasket blew recently, 10 years after it was last attended to - that's not bad!!!

General Comments:

While my Gemini may be a van, it handles like an absolute demon. It runs 205/60 14 rubber on BMW steel rims, and is equipped with Pedders after-market lowered shocks and springs.

I race it frequently at Mallala raceway and am very happy with the handling (wish I had some race tyres though...).

The seats are very comfortable and I have no problems spending all day in them when I travel to Sydney from my home town (about 1800km away). They are wearing, but good-condition replacements are cheap. The interior is very worn, but this is normal for a 1978 Gemini - it has plenty of room, and can accommodate a 6 foot person sleeping in the load area (just).

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th August, 2001

1978 Holden Gemini TD 1.6 petrol

Summary:

A tough car that is cheap and won't give up

Faults:

Head gasket replaced twice.

Transmission recently replaced.

Re-upholstered.

Tires often replaced :)

General Comments:

Tough little Gemini wagon, can take a thrashing and if they're done up can go very fast!

Not thinking about selling it and doubt I ever will.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th March, 2001

1978 Holden Gemini 1.6L petrol

Summary:

Forget the 1.8 and 2.0L engines, work a 1600 and hold on

Faults:

Diff tubing violently shakes in reverse sometimes.

Annoying squeak from the front suspension.

Cheap clutches disintegrate.

General Comments:

An excellent car, hit it hard at the line and watch the heads turn as she gets loose throwing it into 2nd. It intimidates people too much and so you'll find it hard to line people up.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th August, 2000

25th Mar 2001, 01:25

Exactly what modz have you done 2 it?

1978 Holden Gemini TD 1.6L

Summary:

You can buy a cheap and reliable Gemini without having to spend more than $2000 for an average one

Faults:

The worst thing about the Gemini's are the door seals. Mine were letting in water and this led to rusty doors.

The head on my car had just been reconditioned so I've had no worries with the top-end.

Originally the car was an Auto, but I shoved the 4spd Manual in and it goes MUCH better.

General Comments:

When buying a Gemini look for rust in the bottom of the doors and just behind the front wheels in between the guard and the car body.

The heads are alloy and many go because people often neglect the cooling system by using water instead of coolant with rust inhibitor. So check out the radiator as well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th June, 2000

22nd May 2001, 01:33

I have not long ago got rid of a T.D. Gemini. What you have said is correct especially about the head, wish I had seen this web page earlier.

14th Sep 2002, 07:20

My drivers side door handle broke and I also blew a front headlight, i have found it impossible to find spare parts for my TD 2 door van, don't even think about trying to get a fuel tank door. sadly they just do not exist. i love my TD Gemini, but its time to say goodbye.

30th Jul 2005, 06:46

I've recently brought a TD Gemini, except mine is modified and looks and goes like a beast. as for one of the other comments, there is are Gemini's out there I've recently seen three around my town. later.

21st Oct 2006, 04:15

Hello guys, I'm looking to by a holden Gemini TD 1978 model and I'm willing to pay about $5000 for a decent one,please I really want one!!! if you are wanting to sell your holden Gemini TD email me at Rocket_boy40@hotmail.com or call me on 0409290844.

Mike.