The HZ (October 77 - April 1980) model remained virtually
unchanged from its predecessor except for the twin headlight
Premier front fitted with a spoiler but, unfortunately,
the Holden design team sacrificed the sporty look to some
extent when they didn't fit the GTS style slotted front
guards to the HZ range.
The introduction of Radial Tuned Suspension on the HZ
was a bonus and it also finally handled as well as the
sedans.
Equipped with all the visual, interior and performance
features of a loaded GTS sedan, and with the suspension
woes finally cured with the addition of the much-vaunted
Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS), the Sandman could truly
be considered a 'sports' as well as a 'lifestyle' vehicle.
The 5.0 V8 remained optional, although most originals
stuck with the 253. For the record, the official Holden
standard equipment list for the HZ Sandman in October
1977 read as follows:
"Radial Tuned Suspension, Steel-belted
radial ply tires, GTS sports wheels, Front and rear
stabiliser bars, 4.2 liter V8, Power assisted brakes:
Front discs, rear drums, Four quartz halogen headlights
with inboard driving type "pencil beams", Front air
dam, 4 speed all synchromesh transmission, Column-mounted
control stalk for windshield wipers, washers, turn
signals and headlight dimming and flashing, Full foam
reclining bucket seats, Console/armrest/storage compartment,
Padded armrests, Full GTS sports instrumentation, Sports
steering wheel, Cigarette lighter, 2 speed power-ventilation,
Door-to-door loop pile carpeting, Full-length headlining,
Retractable seat belts".
