Holden Monaro CV8 V2
The Holden Monaro CV8, reborn in 2001, was a triumphant revival of one of Australia's most beloved automotive nameplates. After a 27-year absence, the Monaro returned as a sleek two-door coupe based on the VX Commodore platform, powered by a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine — the same all-aluminum powerplant that graced the C5 Corvette.
The CV8 designation referred to the V8 engine, distinguishing it from the CV6 base model fitted with a supercharged 3.8-liter V6. The LS1 produced 306 horsepower (SAE net) and 475 Nm of torque, channeled through a Tremec T56 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional 4-speed automatic. With the manual gearbox, the Monaro could dispatch the 0-100 km/h sprint in 5.9 seconds and continue to a top speed exceeding 260 km/h.
The design, penned by Holden's studio under Richard Ferlazzo, successfully blended modern proportions with nostalgic references to the original HK Monaro. The pillarless door glass, taut haunches, and wide stance created a design that was universally praised. The interior was less celebrated, sharing most of its switchgear and dashboard architecture with the Commodore sedan, though Monaro-specific touches like suede inserts and a distinctive gauge cluster helped differentiate it.
The Monaro's chassis, with its independent rear suspension multi-link setup (a crucial advantage over the live-axle V8 Commodore sedan), provided handling that surprised European reviewers accustomed to dismissing Australian cars. The balance of ride comfort and cornering capability was genuinely accomplished for the price.
The Monaro's success caught the attention of GM's global organization. It was exported to the United States as the Pontiac GTO from 2004-2006 and to the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall Monaro VXR. This was an unprecedented achievement for an Australian-designed car — being exported to the home markets of General Motors.
Over 26,000 Monaros were produced during the model's five-year run, spanning VX, VY, and VZ platform evolutions. Later versions gained the more powerful LS2 6.0-liter V8 with 397 horsepower, further enhancing the car's performance credentials.
Check for rust in the rear wheel arches and door bottoms — less common than older Holdens but possible. The LS1/LS2 V8s are extremely robust and well-supported with parts. Tremec T56 manual gearboxes occasionally develop 3rd/4th gear syncro issues. Check the independent rear suspension bushings — they wear and cause clunking. Verify the car hasn't been used for burnout competitions (check rear tire wear and axle splines). Later VZ-based cars with the LS2 are faster but earlier VX models are arguably more collectible.
Based on the VX/VY/VZ Commodore platform. LS1 5.7L V8 for initial CV8, later upgraded to LS2 6.0L. Exported as Pontiac GTO (USA) and Vauxhall Monaro VXR (UK). Independent rear suspension distinguished it from live-axle Commodore sedans. Total production approximately 26,212 across all variants. A CV8-R variant was produced for racing homologation.