1 Mar 1975
The Holden Gemini was based on the 1974 Opel T-car, a conventional rear-wheel drive sedan that found its way around the General Motors world.
Holden’s version was co-developed with Isuzu of Japan, to the point where the TX was the only co-badged Holden ever… “Holden-Isuzu” appears on the boot lid.
Developed to slot underneath the larger 1974 LH Torana, the Gemini replaced that car’s smaller HB-derived TA predecessor.
Power came courtesy of a 61kW/127Nm 1584cc 1.6-litre SOHC four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed manual or three-speed automatic gearbox. Suspension is by coil springs and a live rear axle.
Both critics and buyers were impressed by the lively performance and comfortable Japanese-style interior the Gemini offered small car buyers, winning the 1975 Wheels magazine Car of the Year award as well as selling up a storm.
The well-equipped Gemini SL sedan was also available in a swoopy two-door coupe.
