From the fab to the far out - check out some of the most popular cars that were cruising WA roads in the '70s.

Click a thumbnail below to start the image gallery.

  • Holden Sandman - The iconic 70s panel van with a reputation as seedy as the shagpile carpets that covered many of its interiors. There was also a Sandman ute.
  • Toyota Corolla - It’s been Australia’s best-selling car for many years with a history stretching back to 1968 when assembly began in Victoria. By the mid-70s it was well on its way to a being a top seller.
  • Holden Kingswood sedan - A true Aussie icon, the Kingswood covered all bases with a sedan, wagon, panel van and ute. It achieved legendary status through the comedy series 'Kingswood Country'.
  • Ford Escort - Another popular small car, the Escort was introduced here in 1970. After a few early teething problems it went on to become a successful rally car.
  • Holden Gemini - Advertised as ‘the little car with big ideas,’ the Gemini carries fond memories for thousands of young West Aussies. Today, the coupe is sought after by enthusiasts.
  • Honda Civic - Compact and very affordable, the Civic made its successful Australian debut in 1973.
  • Datsun 120Y - The 120Y was cheap and a little bit nasty but it sold well and somehow they just seemed to keep on going and go…but only just.
  • Ford Falcon XW GT - The XW GT continued the Falcon GT tradition started by the XR GT in 1967. The XW GT introduced the famous GTHO specification.
  • Holden Torana - The ‘Torrie’ was a champion of Australian motor sport and was Holden’s pocket rocket.
  • Valiant Charger - It’s one of Australia’s legendary muscle cars and also morphed into a popular family car. The Charger was made even more famous by the highly successful advertising campaign ‘Hey Charger.’
  • Holden Monaro - Monaro was the Torana’s big brother and made a huge impact on Australian motoring and motor sport - an Aussie-designed powerhouse.
  • Ford Escort Panel Van - It was the era of the panel van and the Escort was part of the PV line up, taking cheese and sleaze to a new level with tinted rear bubble windows.
  • Datsun 180B - Popular, compact and economical to run, but those with vinyl roofs didn’t fare well in the hot West Aussie sun.
  • Holden Kingswood ute - It was the workhorse of the Kingswood stable and a landmark Aussie ute. Party in the front, business out the back.
  • Mini Moke - An off-road passenger car, the Moke was fun, cheap to run and easy to manoeuvre. The ultimate sun-loving run-around.
  • Ford Cortina - Designed in the UK, Australian versions were built by Ford here in the 70s. Dodgy front suspension and poor dust and water sealing meant it didn’t go down as one of the greats.
  • Datsun 240Z - The 240Z had sleek good looks, smooth handling and all for a moderate price tag. It’s still a sought-after car.
What other cars were big on WA roads in the '70s? Email your pics and stories to editor@rac.com.au

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