Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1

vs

Nissan Skyline

Australia vs Japan — 1972 vs 1970

Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1 (1972)
Nissan Skyline (1970)
Specifications
LJ Torana GTR XU-1 BathurstSkyline 2000 GT-R KPGC10 Hakosuka
Horsepower186 hp160 hp
Torque207 lb-ft130 lb-ft
Engine Size3,310 cc1,989 cc
0-60 mph8.0 sec8.5 sec
Top Speed124 mph125 mph
¼ Mile15.8 sec16.3 sec
Weight2,348 lbs2,469 lbs
Wheelbase2,540 mm2,640 mm
Length4,330 mm4,395 mm
Units Produced1,945
Value (Excellent)$350,000$450,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity8/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1972 Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1 Bathurst brings more power, quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1970 Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-R KPGC10 Hakosuka answers with higher top speed, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Australia and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1972 Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1 Bathurst versus 1970 Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-R KPGC10 Hakosuka is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1972 Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1 Bathurst holds a clear advantage in raw power with 186 hp compared to 160 hp, a 26-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1 uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 3,310 cc, while the Nissan Skyline relies on a Inline-6 DOHC with 1,989 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1972 Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1 Bathurst edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1970 Nissan Skyline 2000 GT-R KPGC10 Hakosuka commands a significant premium over the 1972 Holden LJ Torana GTR XU-1 Bathurst, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.