Scott MacFadyen, a car enthusiast with a penchant for high-performance vehicles, embarked on a project that would blend family practicality with quarter-mile prowess. His journey led to the creation of an impressive show and go LX Torana hatch that could dash down the track in mid-10s while also serving as a comfortable family cruiser. The story of Scott’s Torana epitomizes the essence of a true street machine, striking a balance between performance and functionality.
Scott’s pursuit of the perfect street car stemmed from the need to replace his nitrous 308-powered LJ coupe, which was no longer suitable for his expanding family. This transition marked the genesis of his LX Torana project, featuring a small-block engine that could effortlessly clock 10-second runs on radials while retaining street legality. The Torana’s ability to tackle a 200km round trip to Calder for racing and then transform into a leisurely weekend ride to the park highlights its versatility.
The journey to transform a factory V8 ’78 LX hatch sourced from eBay into a street machine gem was not devoid of challenges. Scott’s meticulous attention to detail, coupled with the craftsmanship of his father, Allen, resulted in a visually striking Torana. The Holden Sting Red paint, the reverse-cowl scoop, and the seamless fusion of style and performance elements underscored Scott’s commitment to building a standout vehicle.
The heart of Scott’s Torana lies in its meticulously crafted engine bay, housing a Chev 383ci V8 powerhouse that churns out 418 rear-wheel horsepower. The engine, transplanted from a friend’s vehicle, boasts top-tier components like Scat crank and rods, TRW forged dome-top slugs, and CNC-ported AFR alloy heads. This potent setup, complemented by a Powerglide gearbox and a sheet-metal nine-inch differential, ensures that Scott’s Torana delivers both on the street and the strip.
Scott’s attention to detail extended beyond the engine bay, encompassing the Torana’s interior and undercarriage. The cabin, refurbished to factory specifications by trimmer Paul Hum, exudes a classic yet refined ambiance. From the inconspicuous JVC head unit to the B&M Pro Ratchet shifter seamlessly integrated into the console, every detail reflects Scott’s commitment to blending modern functionality with vintage charm.
Despite the Torana’s formidable performance credentials, Scott acknowledges the invaluable contributions of his support system. From his father’s expertise in bodywork to his wife Marg’s unwavering patience, the project was a collaborative effort that bore testament to the power of camaraderie in the automotive community. Scott’s gratitude extends to his friends and mentors whose expertise and camaraderie were instrumental in realizing his vision.
Scott’s LX Torana epitomizes the essence of a street machine, seamlessly blending speed, style, and practicality in a single package. Beyond being a mere collection of parts, the Torana symbolizes the passion, dedication, and community spirit that define the automotive enthusiast landscape. As Scott continues to fine-tune his creation, his Torana stands as a testament to the enduring allure of custom-built street machines in the ever-evolving automotive realm.
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