The Holden HK Brougham was introduced in 1968 as the flagship model of the HK series, offering a higher level of luxury and refinement than other Holden models of the time. Positioned above the Premier, the Brougham was designed to compete with larger prestige sedans by combining Holden engineering with V8 power, upgraded interior trim and a wide range of comfort features.
With its distinctive styling, full-width grille and premium interior appointments, the HK Brougham represented Holden’s move toward more sophisticated and upmarket vehicles during the late 1960s. It was also one of the first Holden models to feature a V8 engine as standard equipment.
HK Brougham Engineering and Mechanical Design
The HK Brougham was powered by Holden’s imported Chevrolet 307 cubic inch V8 engine. This engine provided smooth performance and strong torque, giving the large sedan relaxed highway cruising ability. Power was transmitted through a two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission driving a limited slip differential.
The suspension system followed Holden’s established design using independent front suspension with coil springs and a live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs. Combined with power steering and power-assisted brakes, the Brougham was engineered to provide comfortable long-distance touring.
Hydraulic power steering was available to reduce steering effort, while a vacuum assisted braking system improved braking performance for the heavier luxury sedan.
Holden HK Brougham Specifications
• Engine — Chevrolet V8, 307 cubic inches (5.0 litres)
• Bore and stroke — 3.875 in × 3.25 in
• Maximum power — 210 bhp at 4,600 rpm
• Maximum torque — approximately 300 lb-ft at 2,400 rpm
• Compression ratio — 8.75:1
• Fuel system — 2-barrel Rochester carburettor
• Fuel tank capacity — 16.5 gallons
Transmission and driveline:
• Transmission — Powerglide automatic transmission
• Differential — 2.78:1 ratio with limited slip differential
• Rear axle — live rear axle
Suspension:
• Front suspension — independent with coil springs and stabiliser bar
• Rear suspension — semi-elliptic leaf springs with telescopic shock absorbers
Brakes:
• Vacuum assisted hydraulic braking system
• Dual circuit master cylinder
• Front and rear drum brakes
Wheels and tyres:
• Wheels — 5.5J x 14 steel wheels
• Tyres — 7.35 x 14
Dimensions:
• Wheelbase — 111.0 inches
• Overall length — 192.1 inches
• Overall width — 71.4 inches
• Height — 57.3 inches
• Approximate kerb weight — 3,247 lbs
• Boot capacity — 31.6 cubic feet
Luxury Features and Equipment
The Brougham included a number of comfort and convenience features that distinguished it from other Holden models of the period.
Key features included:
• Reclining front bucket seats
• Luxury interior trim and carpeting
• Laminated safety windscreen
• Power assisted steering
• Power assisted brakes
• Safety door locks
• Dual-speed windscreen wipers and washers
• Glare-reducing interior mirror
Optional equipment included air conditioning, custom interior trim combinations and a range of exterior paint colours.
HK Brougham Paint and Trim Colours
Available exterior colours included:
• Silver Mink
• Tennyson Turquoise
• Hacienda Blue
• Paragon Blue
• Inca Gold
• Ermine White
• Burgundy Maroon
• Warrigal Black
Interior trim combinations included Blonde Ivory, Teal Blue and Black upholstery finishes depending on exterior colour selection.
While this guide helps identify common specifications and features of the HK Brougham, the Holden workshop manuals available from Car Manuals Direct include the original specifications, adjustment settings and repair procedures used by Holden mechanics when these vehicles were new.