1978 Holden Gemini Panelvan (base model) 1.6 inline SOHC four from Australia and New Zealand
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
25th Mar 2001, 01:25
Exactly what modz have you done 2 it?