The Holden HG Belmont was the entry-level model in the HG Holden range introduced in 1970. Designed as a practical and durable family and fleet vehicle, the Belmont focused on reliability, straightforward mechanical design and economical operation while still benefiting from the engineering improvements introduced with the HG series.
Although positioned as the basic model in the lineup, the HG Belmont still offered a choice of engines, transmissions and equipment options. Buyers could configure the car to suit everyday driving, commercial use or long-distance travel while maintaining the dependable performance Holden vehicles were known for.
HG Belmont Engine Options
Several engines were available depending on the desired level of performance and economy.
Available engines included:
• 161 cubic inch six-cylinder engine – approximately 114 horsepower
• 186 cubic inch six-cylinder engine – approximately 130 horsepower
• 186S high performance six-cylinder engine – approximately 145 horsepower
• 253 cubic inch V8 engine – approximately 185 horsepower
• 308 cubic inch V8 engine – approximately 240 horsepower
The six-cylinder engines provided economical operation for daily use, while the optional V8 engines delivered stronger acceleration and improved performance.
Transmission Options
The HG Belmont could be ordered with several different transmission configurations.
Transmission options included:
• Three-speed manual transmission with column shift
• Four-speed manual transmission with floor shift
• Tri-Matic three-speed automatic transmission
These options allowed drivers to choose between simple manual operation or the convenience of automatic transmission for city driving.
Suspension and Steering
The HG Belmont used Holden’s proven suspension layout designed to provide dependable road handling and durability.
Key suspension and steering features included:
• Independent front suspension with coil springs
• Stabiliser bar
• Semi-elliptic rear leaf springs
• Hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Recirculating ball steering system
This system provided predictable handling while maintaining ride comfort on both city streets and country roads.
Braking System
Braking systems varied depending on engine choice and equipment level.
Braking features included:
• Hydraulic braking system with dual master cylinder
• Drum brakes on six-cylinder models
• Optional front disc brakes on higher performance models
• Rear drum brakes on all models
The dual braking system improved safety by separating the front and rear braking circuits.
Safety Features
Holden incorporated several safety improvements across the HG model range, including the Belmont.
Safety features included:
• Energy-absorbing steering column and steering wheel
• Dual-system braking arrangement
• Laminated windscreen
• Safety door locks
• Recessed instrument panel and controls
• Automatic reversing lights
• Parking lights visible from the side
These features were designed to help improve driver control and occupant protection.
Body and Dimensions
The HG Belmont shared the same body structure used across the HG Holden sedan range.
Typical dimensions included:
• Wheelbase – approximately 111 inches
• Overall length – approximately 184.8 inches
• Overall width – approximately 71.8 inches
• Height – approximately 55.6 inches
Vehicle weight varied depending on engine and equipment options.
Optional Equipment
Although the Belmont was designed as a basic model, buyers could still select several optional features.
Optional equipment included:
• Power assisted disc brakes
• Heavy duty suspension components
• Limited slip differential
• Special instrument cluster
• Radio and interior comfort upgrades
• Air conditioning
• Vinyl roof and trim options
These options allowed the Belmont to be configured for greater comfort or performance depending on buyer requirements.
While this guide outlines the specifications and features of the HG Belmont, the Holden workshop manuals available from Car Manuals Direct include the original specifications, adjustment settings and repair procedures used by Holden mechanics when servicing HG Holden vehicles and their standard mechanical components.