Holden Monaro GTS 350

Holden Monaro GTS 350

The 1968 Holden Monaro GTS 350 holds a special place in Australian automotive history as the car that launched Australia's muscle car era. Based on the HK Holden platform, the Monaro coupe was a distinctly Australian creation that combined local design with the performance potential of the Chevrolet-derived V8 engines that General Motors-Holden (GMH) had access to through its parent company.

The GTS 350 designation indicated the 350 cubic-inch (5.7-liter) Chevrolet small-block V8, producing approximately 300 horsepower (SAE gross). This was the most powerful engine available in a Holden at the time, and its installation in the sleek Monaro coupe body created a car that could compete with the best American muscle cars. The engine was essentially a detuned version of the same Chevrolet 350 used in the Camaro and Corvette, adapted for Australian fuel quality and climate conditions.

The Monaro coupe's design was distinguished from the standard HK Holden sedan by its pillarless hardtop roofline, sporty proportions, and GTS-specific trim. The coupe body was lower and more rakish than the sedan, with a distinctive C-pillar treatment that gave it a sporting elegance. GTS badging, specific wheel covers, and a blacked-out grille distinguished the performance model from lesser Monaros.

The GTS 350's significance was confirmed in November 1968 when a Monaro GTS 350 won the Bathurst 500 (the predecessor to the Bathurst 1000), driven by Bruce McPhee and Barry Mulholland. This victory on Mount Panorama -- Australia's most iconic race circuit -- cemented the Monaro's reputation and created a racing legend that would drive sales for years to come.

Driving a Monaro GTS 350 reveals a car that is more refined than its American counterparts. The suspension, tuned for Australian roads, is firmer and more composed than typical American muscle cars. The Chevrolet V8 provides strong, linear power delivery, and the overall driving experience is of a car that balances performance with grand touring comfort. The coupe body provides a level of style and presence that sets it apart from the utilitarian sedan variants.

The 1968 Monaro GTS 350 is today one of the most valuable and sought-after Australian cars. The combination of Bathurst racing heritage, GM V8 power, attractive styling, and relatively low production numbers has driven values to levels that rival European sports cars. The Monaro's significance as the founder of Australia's muscle car tradition ensures its place at the top of the Australian collector car hierarchy.