I have a thing for coupe utilities. I like El Caminos and Rancheros. I kind of like the Scamps and Rampages, too, though I like them more when they’ve been rear-drive swapped and are packing a hot small-block. And if you really want to know why I have an Aussie automobile fixation, blame their cultural affinity for utes. Ever since GM slammed the door shut on what was supposed to be the Pontiac G8 ST, I’ve looked at what it would take to import a ute into the States. What is surprising to me is that there are actually a pretty good sized handful of them in the country already. Case in point: this 1977 Holden HZ Utility one-tonner. Sorry, Aussies, but you’ll have to remind me if there’s anything to a tonner besides just being a flatbed version of the ute or not, but for now that’s what it looks like to me, and that’s just fine.
A 253 V8, an automatic, and most important, an Indiana registration are all you truly need to know about this ute, however. That’s right, no waiting at the port, no Customs paperwork…this Holden is already clear to be here. From where we sit, we wouldn’t do anything except to locate the fuse box panel…and maybe start searching for a full-gauge dash to go into the car. Because, overall, this Holden looks ready to go, be it work or play.
Called a one tonner because they were rated to carry 1 ton on the tray:)
The Holden 1 tonner was sold as a cab & chassis whereas the tray is integral with the body for the ute.
There is also a much rarer 6 wheeled Holden 2 tonner with an extra (unpowered) axle behind the driven axle.
As well as the classic HQ – WB 1 tonner, Holden also produced a VY & VZ Commodore cab & chassis 1 tonner in the early 2000’s.
In the ’90’s I had an a 308 powered HX Ute………….I still miss it.
And just tick another box for you Bryan, a lot of 1 tonners were used as tow trucks (wreckers) back in the day.
https://www.facebook.com/HoldenTonnerTowTrucks/