Random # 296: HX Sandman Ute

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I'm pretty sure this pristine Sandman ute is an HX, based on its grille and side stripes.  HQ Sandmans are easy to spot, being the most distinctive of the HQ to HZ lineup, as they don't share the same basic 'nose' of the subsequent three models (they had entirely different dashboards, too). HQ and HJ Sandmans do, however, both feature matching arch-style side stripes, whereas HXs and HZs only differ stylistically in terms of their grilles, as their side stripes are identical to those shown here.


 I was surprised to learn whilst researching this post that only the HJ Sandman featured the HJ - HZ Monaro / GTS vents on the front mudguards, the absence of same adding weight to this being an HX.  The HQ did feature the longer vents also seen on their concurrent Monaro and SS models, but GMH deleted any form of vents from both the HX and HZ Sandman's features lists.  


I'm not sure why GMH did this; their Sandman line-up otherwise came equipped with most of the Monaro's kit, including its wheels - as shown above - steering wheel, dashboard and instruments, centre console and seats.  Of course, the Sandman got the V8 / four-speed gearbox option, too.    


Either way, it doesn't detract from the extreme excellence of our featured car.  It was striking in every way; from its paint to its panels, and its chrome, wheels, red-lined tyres and tonneau, and the perfect interior, it was simply magnificent!



Please keep an eye out for UMPH's first Classics by the Beach post for 2020.  I need to go through my photos and do a write up, which I hope to have done by the middle of this week.  In the meantime, feel free to have a look through the rest of the 'blog and enjoy the many hundreds of photos of local cars, car shows and motorsports events on offer.  Have a crack at the search facility in the top right of screen; you might be surprised what you'll find!






U M P H

(uppermiddlepetrolhead.blogspot.com.au.)

All iPhone images.

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