Classic Monaro Muscle: From HK to HZ Monaro Models

Before the Monaro became a symbol of Australian muscle car royalty, it was a bold new silhouette on Holden showroom floors. From the HK series in 1968 to the final HZ in the late ’70s, the early Monaros defined an era of homegrown performance and street presence. Here’s a detailed look at the evolution of Holden’s original coupe lineup, highlighting the key Monaro models that shaped the legend.

HK Monaro (1968–1969)

The one that started it all. Released in July 1968, the HK Monaro hit the market like a thunderclap. With its sleek two-door fastback body, long bonnet, and aggressive stance, the HK gave Holden a real rival to Ford’s coupe offerings. The range started with the Monaro base model, followed by the Monaro GTS and the mighty GTS 327. These were the first Monaro models to establish a unique identity in Australian car culture.

Engines: The base Monaro offered inline-six options, but things got serious with the GTS 327, which packed a Chevrolet-sourced 5.4L V8 (327ci) and was built specifically for homologation in motorsport.
Bathurst Pedigree: The GTS 327 won the 1968 Hardie-Ferodo 500 at Bathurst, cementing its place in history.
Styling: Coke-bottle curves, flying rear buttresses, and optional stripe kits made it unmistakable on the road.

HT Monaro (1969–1970)

The HT was more refinement than revolution, but it brought some important upgrades to the Monaro models lineup.

New Heart: The GTS 327 was replaced by the GTS 350, now using the larger 5.7L (350ci) Chevy V8. This model is among the most collectible Monaros ever.
Improved Handling: Revised suspension and updated steering geometry made the HT easier to handle at pace.
Interior Upgrades: A classier dashboard layout and trim enhancements gave the HT a more upmarket feel.

HG Monaro (1970–1971)

The HG was the final iteration of the first generation, with mostly cosmetic tweaks and updates across the Monaro models.

Styling Shifts: A new grille, taillight treatment, and minor trim updates gave it a fresher look.
Transmissions: The Tri-Matic 3-speed auto was introduced, giving drivers more choice.
GTS Appeal: The GTS 350 remained the halo car, with strong performance and sharp handling.

HQ Monaro (1971–1974)

The HQ marked a major design overhaul. Gone were the sharp lines, replaced by a rounder, more American-inspired body. This generation brought a wider variety of Monaro models to suit different tastes.

Chassis Redesign: All-new perimeter frame chassis improved ride and handling.
Model Explosion: Offered in coupe and sedan form, with variants like Monaro LS, GTS, and GTS 350.
Interior Style: Bucket seats, new dash layouts, and bright colour options matched the flamboyant exterior.
Performance: The GTS 350 was still the top performer, but Holden also offered 253 and 308 V8s.

HJ Monaro (1974–1976)

A shift in priorities. The HJ Monaro moved away from its full-blown muscle car roots and leaned more toward personal luxury, but still maintained a strong presence among Monaro models of the era.

Design Tweaks: Squared-off front end, new grilles, and reshaped taillights.
Luxury Focus: LS models came with more plush appointments, and GTS models featured a revised dash and optional full instrumentation.
GTS 350 Exit: The 350ci engine was phased out, making the 308ci V8 the top-spec option.

HX Monaro (1976–1977)

The coupe era was winding down. The HX series saw the Monaro coupe discontinued altogether, with only the GTS sedan remaining in the Monaro models lineup.

ADR Compliance: Emissions regulations kicked in, with lower compression ratios and cleaner running engines.
Visuals: Subtle badge and trim changes, with a blacked-out grille and new colours.
Final Coupe Run: The limited HX Monaro LE in 1976 was a final coupe swan song, built in small numbers with luxury and performance styling.

HZ Monaro (1977–1979)

By the HZ series, the Monaro was sedan-only, but it still packed presence and rounded out the early Monaro models with strength.

Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS): Major improvement to handling, making the HZ GTS one of the sharpest-handling Monaros ever.
GTS Package: The final GTS featured a unique bonnet scoop, bold striping, and sports instrumentation.
Legacy Begins: While it was the end of the line for now, the HZ kept the Monaro name alive, paving the way for its eventual rebirth in the early 2000s.

Monaro, Built to Last

From Bathurst glory to boulevard cruisers, the HK to HZ Monaro models covered every flavour of Australian muscle. Each Monaro model played a role in shaping the legend, whether through raw V8 power, bold design, or cult classic status. For Holden fans, these early Monaro models aren’t just cars, they’re chapters in a story that still roars today.

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Featuring:

• Period-correct 186 cubic inch engine
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•  Indy Orange exterior
•  Black sports cabin interior
•  Wooden dash accents
•  Black leather upholstery
•  Factory steering wheel
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•  Vintage 1980s radio cassette player
•  Period-correct hubcaps and badging
•  Original sales book and manuals