1969 Holden Kingswood HT 186 (2 speed Powerglide) from Australia and New Zealand
Summary:
An Aussie Brick with Wheels - A Solid and Reliable Car
Faults:
When I first got this great Australian car I immediately noticed two problems; the brake pedal (all four drum brakes) was hard to push down and, as a result, the brakes didn't really stop the car well - I never got this fixed, however, so the problem was not that major. The second problem was with the transmission, a unique/rare two speed automatic, which needed to warm-up before actually being able to change to second gear. In the morning I would have to drive the car about three kilometers before the second gear would engage - top speed in first was around 50 km/h. Again, I never got this fixed as it didn't bother me that much.
Apart from these problems, all others were basic maintenance issues: reco-carburetor $60, new battery, new radiator hose, plugs and points (I serviced it myself - 186 engine is very easy to work on)...etc.
General Comments:
This was a great car and I would highly recommend it to anyone on a budget - fuel and purchase costs. Given their age now I would go for one that's been restored or very well looked after. The 186 engine is all you need for basic driving, excellent mileage and reliability.
The one feature I most admired, and indulged in, was the bucket seat... great for drive-in movies!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 13th December, 2005
17th Sep 2005, 01:10
“This car is a lady-killer!”
Strangely enough, Ted Kennedy had a `68 Olds just like yours.