1980 Holden WB Series Panel Van - Lime Green - 209,509km - 5.7L V8 Automatic, Custom Engine Swap
Overview
This 1980 Holden WB Series Panel Van represents a fascinating chapter in Australian automotive history, now elevated by a significant modern engine upgrade. The WB Series was Holden's workhorse commercial offering throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, built tough for Australian conditions and prized today by enthusiasts and collectors seeking authentic period vehicles with genuine character. This particular example has been transformed with a 5.7-litre V8 engine swap, converting it from its original modest four-cylinder specification into a genuinely capable performance machine while retaining its original body and classic aesthetic.
The striking lime green exterior is immediately eye-catching and period-appropriate, presenting well across all visible panels. The paint holds reasonable gloss with minor stone chipping evident on the bonnet leading edge, consistent with a working vehicle of this age and mileage. Panel gaps are even and the body structure appears sound. The interior features original-style black cloth upholstery with vertical pleating on the rear cargo area, showing honest wear consistent with the vehicle's 209,509-kilometre history. The dashboard is original Holden specification with analogue instruments and period-correct switchgear. The steering wheel shows appropriate patina. Chrome trim shows light surface oxidation typical of a vehicle of this vintage. Door seals show minor wear but remain functional.
The engine bay reveals the most significant modification: a 5.7-litre V8 engine with blue block finish and chrome air filter housing, paired with an M40 automatic transmission. This represents a substantial upgrade from the original L14 3.3-litre inline-four, delivering genuine performance and presence while maintaining the vehicle's classic proportions. The naturally aspirated V8 configuration is clean and straightforward, with no visible turbocharging or supercharging components. The engine bay is reasonably presented with accessible fluid reservoirs and standard ancillary components. The compliance plate confirms original Holden manufacture (General Motors Holdens Limited) with original engine specification noted as L14, documenting the factory baseline before the V8 conversion.
At the classic vehicle price guide of approximately $8,000 to $12,000 for standard WB Series examples, this V8-equipped variant offers genuine mechanical interest and performance potential. The engine swap adds significant appeal to collectors seeking a usable, driveable classic with real mechanical substance. The combination of authentic 1980 Holden styling, period-correct lime green finish, and modern V8 performance creates a compelling proposition for buyers seeking a distinctive Australian classic with genuine character and capability.
Condition
The exterior presents well for a vehicle of this age and mileage. Paint quality is honest with minor stone chips on the bonnet leading edge and light surface oxidation on chrome trim. Panel alignment is even with no obvious dents or creases. The lime green finish is clean and the overall presentation is tidy. The interior shows age-appropriate wear with original upholstery displaying honest patina. The dashboard is original and functional. Wheels are period-appropriate steel items. The engine bay is reasonably presented with the V8 engine installation appearing competent and well-integrated.
Features
* 5.7-litre V8 engine (engine swap from original L14 specification)
* M40 automatic transmission
* Rear wheel drive
* Original Holden WB Series panel van body
* Lime green exterior finish
* Original-style black cloth upholstery
* Analogue instrument cluster
* Period-correct steering wheel
* Chrome air filter housing
* Naturally aspirated V8 configuration
* Right-hand drive
* Two-door configuration
* Two-seat capacity
* Original compliance plate documentation
* 209,509 kilometres recorded
Condition Notes
* Minor stone chips on bonnet leading edge
* Light surface oxidation on chrome trim
* Minor wear to door seals
* Upholstery shows age-appropriate patina consistent with mileage
* Engine swap from original L14 to 5.7L V8 documented on compliance plate
* Vehicle is a modified/custom build with non-original engine installation
Specifications
Year: 1980
Make: Holden
Model: WB Series
Body Type: Panel Van
Colour: Lime Green
Engine: 5.7 Litre V-angle V8, Naturally Aspirated, Petrol
Transmission: Automatic (M40)
Drive Type: Rear Wheel Drive
Odometer: 209,509 Kilometres
Seats: 2
Doors: 2
Steering: Right Hand Drive
Engine Number: 11WT417059
CHASSIS: AWB07289A
If you have any questions relating to this vehicle, or if you would like to arrange a physical or virtual inspection, please contact Gavin directly on 0455 500 400
(Key #61CC MARPLE)
Lloyds stock #888104+1
#CCALL
#CCAUS
Location of item: 60 Marple Avenue, Villawood, NSW, Australia
This item is being offered PICK UP ONLY. Local collection is available, if shipping is required, bidders are encouraged to organise their own freight.
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
Transport quotes are provided in the bidding centre for delivery to your door or to your nearest depot. Alternatively, you can arrange your own transport, or we can assist with obtaining a quotation for transport to your door prior to bidding. Email [email protected] with your name and lot/stock number and our transport team will be in contact.
Lloyds Auctions advise to use these quotes as a guide only, prices will be variable dependent upon several factors including your location, car value, open or enclosed transport, vehicles sizes and are excluding GST.