Holden’s Legends: GTR XU1 vs. A9X Torana. Which Torana Rules the Track?

Few cars are as revered in Australian motorsport as the Holden GTR XU1 and the A9X Torana. Both machines defined different eras of racing, and each brought unique strengths to the track. While the GTR XU1 earned its name as the “Giant Killer,” the A9X came with raw, undeniable muscle. But how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive into what makes each car a legend and see which Torana reigns supreme.

Round 1: Power and Performance

When it comes to raw power, these two cars take distinct approaches to deliver impressive performance on the track.

GTR XU1’s Lightweight Agility

The GTR XU1 is all about precision. With its smaller, lighter build, the GTR XU1 was equipped with a 3.3L straight-six engine that might seem modest, but the car’s nimble handling made it a fierce competitor. It shone on tight corners and unpredictable road conditions, leveraging its size and agility to out-maneuver larger opponents. While the GTR XU1 excelled in corners and on winding circuits, its straight-line speed fell short when compared to larger V8-powered rivals. On long straights, it struggled to maintain pace, often relying on technical sections to regain ground.

A9X’s V8 Muscle

The A9X came into play when muscle was the name of the game. With a 5.0L V8 under the bonnet, the A9X delivered a punch that dominated long stretches and straightaways. It wasn’t just powerful; the A9X’s added weight gave it the stability to tear down the track at high speeds, bringing a brute-force style to the Torana lineup. That said, the A9X’s larger frame and added weight made it less agile than the GTR XU1. On tighter, more technical tracks, the A9X’s bulk could become a disadvantage in tricky weather conditions, requiring more effort to navigate sharp corners with the same finesse as its predecessor.

Round 1 Winner: A9X

While the GTR XU1 was more agile, the A9X’s raw power and speed make it the clear winner for overall track dominance.

Round 2: Style and Design

Each of these Toranas has a distinctive look, but their designs speak to their racing styles and the eras they represent.

The Compact GTR XU1

The GTR XU1’s streamlined, low-profile design emphasized function over form. With its fluted guards, bold GTR XU1 decals, and compact frame, the car was purpose-built for racing. Its simplicity contributed to its agility, reducing drag and ensuring every design choice supported performance. This understated look reflected the car’s precision and efficiency on the track.

However, this minimalist approach lacked the bold presence of the A9X. Fans who valued aggressive styling might find the GTR XU1 less visually striking, especially when compared to its successor’s commanding stance.

The Aggressive A9X

In contrast, the A9X looked every bit as tough as it drove. Wider, with a more pronounced stance, the A9X showcased its aggressive style through its body shape and GT stripes. Combined with its iconic front and rear spoilers, the A9X was a car that demanded attention both on and off the track.

This boldness came with trade-offs. The A9X’s wider stance and additional aerodynamic elements, while visually impressive, added drag that slightly reduced its efficiency compared to the more streamlined GTR XU1.

Round 2 Winner: GTR XU1

Both cars are beautiful in their own way, but the GTR XU1’s innovative, purpose-driven design earns it the win. Every element of its style was carefully crafted to achieve one goal: taking on bigger giants and winning. Its understated elegance and purposeful engineering make it a timeless icon of racing ingenuity.

Round 3: Track Record

The real question for many fans is: which car made the biggest mark in racing history?

The GTR XU1’s Underdog Story

The GTR XU1 made its mark as the ultimate underdog, most famously during Peter Brock’s historic 1972 Bathurst win. With its lightweight build and razor-sharp handling, the GTR XU1 thrived on tracks that demanded precision and control. Its agility allowed it to carve through tight corners and navigate complex terrain, giving it a critical edge over larger, less nimble competitors. On technical circuits, the GTR XU1 didn’t just hold its own, it excelled.

However, the car’s smaller straight-six engine couldn’t match the top-end speed of its V8-powered rivals. On tracks with long, open stretches, the GTR XU1 was often outpaced, relying on tight corners to make up lost ground. Against a powerhouse like the A9X, straight-line speed was a challenge the GTR XU1 couldn’t always overcome.

The A9X’s Domination

The A9X, by contrast, was built to dominate. With its 5.0L V8 engine and sheer brute force, it excelled on circuits that prioritized power and endurance. Its record-breaking performance at the 1979 Bathurst, where Peter Brock led by six laps, stands as one of the most commanding victories in Australian motorsport history. The A9X’s raw speed and stability at high velocities gave it an undeniable advantage on long straights, solidifying its reputation as a track powerhouse.

Yet, this raw muscle came at a cost. The A9X’s larger frame and heavier build meant it couldn’t match the GTR XU1’s finesse on twisty, technical circuits. Tight corners and quick directional changes often exposed the A9X’s bulk, making it less competitive when precision was key.

Round 3 Winner: It’s A Tie!

In the battle of track records, it’s impossible to declare an outright winner. Each car’s success lies in its ability to exploit the unique demands of the track itself.

Curves

The GTR XU1 shines on tracks where agility and technical skill are paramount, dancing around corners in a way the A9X simply can’t match.

Straights

On circuits with long straights, the A9X’s raw power and stability make it the undisputed champion.

Final Verdict: Two Legends, One Legacy

While both the GTR XU1 and A9X Toranas have earned their place in Australian motorsport history, each brings a unique character to the track. The GTR XU1 embodies the spirit of the underdog, proving that a car doesn’t need to be the biggest to beat the best. The A9X, on the other hand, represents Holden’s evolution into pure, uncompromising muscle, taking the Torana line to its peak. Together, these Toranas tell the story of Holden’s triumphs on the track, proving that in the world of racing, there’s room for both brains and brawn.

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1977 Holden A9X Torana
Worth $515,000

Featuring:

Genuine A9X Body
Rebuilt 308ci V8 engine with VDO kill switch system
4-speed manual transmission
Staggered width 14” Cheviot Hotwire wheels
Complete restoration inside & out
Factory Jasmine Yellow paint with blacked-out bonnet treatment
Factory Black Slate interior with golf ball style inserts

1973 Holden Torana GTR XU1
Worth $230,000