In 1969, Holden’s Australian division unveiled the Hurricane, a low-slung concept car powered by a mid-mounted 5.0-liter V8 engine delivering 259 horsepower. At just 39 inches tall, its standout feature was a hydraulically operated canopy that replaced traditional doors, with seats that rose and tilted for easy access.
The Hurricane was a technological marvel, featuring innovations like a magnetic Pathfinder navigation system, digital displays, automatic climate control, an auto-seek radio, and one of the world’s first rear-view cameras. These features wouldn’t become common until decades later.
Sadly, high production costs meant the Hurricane never made it past the concept stage. Forgotten for years, it was rediscovered in 1988 and fully restored by 2011. Today, it resides at the National Motor Museum in Birdwood, offering a glimpse into Holden’s visionary past.
Below is a collection of stunning photos of the 1969 Holden Hurricane: