Vehicle Class:
Full-size luxury/executive sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking comfort, space, and prestige; ideal for restoration enthusiasts and mechanics specializing in classic Holdens.
Competitors:
Ford Fairlane/LTD, Chrysler Valiant VIP/Charger variants (in the Australian market).
Luxury Appointments:
Extended wheelbase, plush interior trim, improved sound deadening, often power steering and air conditioning as standard or optional.
Engine Options:
Powerful V8 engine options catering to performance and prestige.
Manual Value:
$150 value in book form if obtainable; comprehensive digital resource for enthusiasts and restorers.
Engine:
253, 308, 350 cubic inch (4.2L, 5.0L, 5.7L) Holden V8 engines
Drivetrain:
Transmission (likely 3-speed Trimatic auto, 4-speed M20/M21 manual), Drivetrain components (driveshaft, rear axle, differentials)
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (independent, coil springs), Rear suspension (live axle, leaf springs), Steering system, Braking system (front discs, rear drums typical for the era)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Ignition system, Lighting, Starting and charging system, Accessories
Body:
Body panels, Doors, Glass, Trim, Bumpers, Interior components, Exterior trim, Chassis components
Assembly Procedures:
Detailed breakdown of parts assembly for various vehicle systems and body components.
Parts Identification:
Comprehensive part numbers, diagrams, and descriptions for factory replacement parts.
Identification Guide:
Information on VIN decoding, engine codes, and other identification markers.
Troubleshooting:
Likely includes diagnostic information and common issues related to the HQ series, especially for the Statesman models and specified engines.
Depth Of Coverage:
Factory-level detail for parts and assembly, suitable for restoration, mechanical repair, and parts sourcing. Includes specific part numbers and diagrams.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement 253:
253 cu in (4.2 L)
Displacement 308:
308 cu in (5.0 L)
Displacement 350:
350 cu in (5.7 L) (Chevrolet Small-Block, typically with specific Holden adaptations)
Horsepower 253:
Approx. 185 bhp (138 kW) @ 4400 rpm (net)
Torque 253:
Approx. 300 lb-ft (407 Nm) @ 2800 rpm (net)
Horsepower 308:
Approx. 230 bhp (172 kW) @ 4600 rpm (net)
Torque 308:
Approx. 324 lb-ft (439 Nm) @ 3000 rpm (net)
Horsepower 350:
Approx. 240-255 bhp (179-190 kW) @ 4800 rpm (net) (depending on specific tune/carburetion)
Torque 350:
Approx. 340-350 lb-ft (461-475 Nm) @ 3200 rpm (net)
Carburetion:
Rochester Quadrajet 4-barrel carburetor typical for most V8s; some base models might have 2-barrel. 350 often fitted with Holley or a specific Rochester.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (as the HQ series transitioned to unleaded fuel later in its production)
Engine Code Prefix 308:
LH7 (example for 308 V8)
Transmission Type Deville:
3-speed automatic (Trimatic) likely standard on Deville. 4-speed manual (Muncie/Australian equivalents) available.
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed manual transmission (M20, M21 'wide ratio' and 'close ratio' options).
Transmission Cooling:
Automatic transmissions typically feature transmission fluid coolers, often integrated with the radiator.
Trimatic Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent GM specification for automatic transmission fluid) - check specific manual for exact OE spec.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 114 inches (2896 mm) - longer than the standard Kingswood/Belmont sedan.
Length:
Approx. 197 inches (5004 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74 inches (1880 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55 inches (1397 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (1588-1724 kg) depending on engine and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight:
GVM ratings typically in the range of 4500-4800 lbs (2041-2177 kg).
Wheel Size Standard:
14-inch steel wheels typically, with optional hubcaps or alloy wheels.
Tire Size Standard:
Typically 185/80R14 or 195/70R14, depending on engine and trim.
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 105 mm (common for Holden HQ-WB).
Crash Test Data:
No modern crash test data available; designed to 1970s Australian safety standards. Lacked many modern safety features like airbags.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assistance typically standard on Deville models.
Steering:
Power steering was a common option on Deville models, enhancing maneuverability.
Seat Belts:
Lap-sash seatbelts were standard for front occupants, lap belts for rear occupants. Shoulder belts often optional or fitted later.
Body Structure:
Body-on-frame construction with a steel unibody structure. Safety features were rudimentary by modern standards.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with an optional 8-track player. Speaker configuration typically 2 front, 2 rear. Cassette players became available later in the HQ series run or as aftermarket upgrades.
Cruise Control:
Not a common factory feature in the early 1970s for this model, likely a rare dealer option or aftermarket fitment.
Vintage Features:
Focus on mechanical and analogue systems. No modern digital connectivity or driver assistance features.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months for that era. Synthetic oils and modern filters allow longer intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Points, condenser, spark plugs usually every 6,000-12,000 miles (10,000-20,000 km). Electronic ignition conversions were popular upgrades.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Varies by engine, typically 5-6 quarts (4.7-5.7 L) with filter change. Recommended oil viscosity: 20W-50 or 10W-30 depending on climate and type of oil (mineral vs. synthetic).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Capacity approx. 14-16 quarts (13.2-15.1 L). Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Check reservoir for exact specification and level regularly.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sills, floor pans, door bottoms, and boot floor are susceptible to rust due to age and Australian climate conditions.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring looms, Lucas components (if fitted in some export markets), and deteriorating connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common wear items that can affect ride quality and handling.
Carburetor Issues:
Rochester Quadrajets can be prone to vacuum leaks or float issues if not properly maintained or rebuilt.
Manufacturer:
Holden (Australian subsidiary of General Motors)
Predecessor:
HG Holden Belmont, Kingswood, Premier sedan.
Successor:
HX, HZ Statesman.
Production Years:
1971-1974
Manufacturing Location:
Australia (Fishermans Bend, Melbourne; Pagewood, Sydney).
Australian Icon:
The HQ series, including the Statesman, is considered one of Holden's most successful and iconic models, defining Australian luxury motoring for its era.
Export Models:
Included 'HQ ISUZU DEVILLE EXPORT' as noted in the product description, suggesting variants built for specific overseas markets, potentially with Isuzu engines or specifications. This is a key piece of information for collectors and restorers of export models.
