Australia vs Australia — 1968 vs 1971
| Monaro GTS 350 | Monaro HQ GTS 350 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 350 lb-ft | 380 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,733 cc | 5,735 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.5 sec | 6.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 137 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 14.9 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,417 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,819 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 4,682 mm | 4,877 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $200,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1968 Holden Monaro GTS 350 excels in quicker acceleration, while the 1971 Holden Monaro HQ GTS 350 stands out for higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Tracing the evolution of the Holden Monaro from 1968 to 1971 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Holden. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Holden Monaro GTS 350 producing 300 hp and the 1971 Holden Monaro HQ GTS 350 delivering 300 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Holden Monaro uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 5,733 cc, while the Holden Monaro relies on a V8 OHV with 5,735 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Holden Monaro GTS 350 edges ahead at 6.5 seconds versus 6.8 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Holden Monaro HQ GTS 350 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.