Pete05
Premium
- 7,101
- Melbourne, Australia
Perhaps unknowingly, Australia's largest car company had created a real rocket in terms of serious performance available to the everyday driver. Of greater interest is the notion that this car was in reality the first wolf in sheep's clothing available in Australia. If you believe the press release of June 18, the focus of the new 186S version of the 3049cc engine was in smoother running and an automatic choke, while the target customer for the new transmission was the owner who towed a boa trailer or caravan. Come on! That was only a small part of the story.
The one outward clue to what lurked within this plain-Jane Holden sedan was a small engine emblem in the form of a cross. Was this a case of RIP for anyone who came across one of these cars in a traffic light derby? Ever since Holdens had been available with an optional (and a bigger and more powerful) engine, a distinctive badge gave the game away.
There was no external clues to the transmission fitted. Not was there any real indication when the engine was started.
For many years motoring enthusiasts had been pressuring GM-H to include such a transmission. Rightly so, they felt the car would be improved with a 4-speed. The EH 179 manual had shown the potential of a relatively powerful engine in terms of overall performance, but the car was always limited in terms of appeal to the enthusiast who preferred a four-on-the-floor. The following HD model of 1965 had the option of an all-new 179 X2 engine featuring twin carburettors and other detail enhancements including a very sporty exhaust note, however something was still lacking in terms of making the Holden a true driver's car.
Even from within the organsation itself, pleas were made to include such a transmission in the specifications. Bob Watson, a rally driver and an Engineering Department employee, pushed for the availability so the company's rally cars were more competitive against the Fords. Being a driver, Watson knew first-hand what was needed.
Whether it was a case of playing catch-up or merely teasing with a glimpse of what was coming in the 1968 HK series, the inclusion of a 4-speed manual on all passenger models in the HR range was well received. So well received, in fact, that the initial build run (believed to be 500-600) was all but gone instantly the announcement was made. Many interested buyers had to wait for subsequent production in order to get behind the wheel of a 4-speed Holden.
Motoring writers were excited with claims the HR 186S 4-speed was the "best Holden yet". The Sun's Peter Livingstone tested such a car and recorded a top speed of just above 100mph and the very rapid acceleration figures (for any 1967 car) of 0-60mph in 9.9 seconds and 0-70mph in 13.6. The standing quarter mile time was 17.1 seconds. This in a Holden!?
"Smoother performance and a gearbox that's a delight to use add refreshing variety to the Holden stable." Livingstone enthused.
Although a German Opel division design, the transmission was originally developed for four-cylinder applications. Putting it behind the 186S was perhaps stretching things a little too far, as some owners would learn in time.
Also available were power disc brakes and a limited slip differential that would ensure all the power got to the ground effectively. This was a common build configuration and the best package, as far as performance went, in either Special or Premier sedans. Codes were assigned to be attached to the base vehicle designation to make the task of ordering vehicles simpler than individually specifying each component from the Ordering Procedure.
The 'magic' code for the 186S engine, 4-speed manual, 3.55 ratio LSD axle and power disc brakes was 1746. When added to either HR225 (Special sedan) or HR235 (Premier sedan), the desired vehicle was produced. Easy. Many other build configurations were on offer, including the alternative 3.36:1 rear axle, but '1746' is the one most of the GM-H road test cars were equipped with this 'go package'. Disc brakes ensured it stopped as well as it went. The overall gearing ensured swift acceleration, effortless overtaking, a high cruising speed and reasonable fuel economy.
http://www.holden.org.au/model/hr-holden/
http://members.tripod.com/~sixties_holdens/hrhist.html
http://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_holden_hr.htm
http://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_holden_hr_186.htm
http://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/holden_HR_technical_specifications.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holden_HR
