The Holden HK Monaro was introduced in 1968 as Holden’s first true two-door sports coupe. Built on the HK platform, the Monaro combined the proven mechanical layout of the Holden sedan range with distinctive styling, performance options and a more driver-focused interior.
Available in several variants including the Monaro, Monaro GTS and Monaro GTS 327, the model quickly gained a reputation for performance and became one of the most recognised Australian performance cars of the late 1960s. The Monaro combined strong engine options with upgraded suspension and braking systems, creating a car that delivered both everyday practicality and sporting capability.
HK Monaro Interior and Driver Features
The Monaro interior was designed to place important instruments and controls within easy reach of the driver while maintaining a comfortable cabin for longer journeys.
Interior features included:
• Recessed instrument panel design for improved visibility and safety
• Bucket seats in Monaro GTS models with padded side bolsters and armrests
• Full width rear seat designed for passenger comfort
• Optional centre console with floor mounted gear shift
• Optional tachometer integrated into the centre console
• Push-button transistor radio available as an accessory
The dashboard layout and driver-focused instrumentation gave the Monaro a distinctly sporty character compared with other Holden models of the period.
HK Monaro Engine Options
Several engine options were available across the Monaro range, allowing buyers to choose between economical six-cylinder performance or V8 power.
Available engines included:
• 161 cubic inch six cylinder engine
• 186 cubic inch six cylinder engine
• 186S high performance six cylinder engine
• 307 cubic inch Chevrolet V8
• 327 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 (GTS 327 models)
The 327 V8 engine produced approximately 250 brake horsepower and was paired with upgraded suspension and braking systems to suit the increased performance.
Transmission Options
The Monaro could be equipped with several transmission choices depending on the engine and model specification.
Available gearboxes included:
• Three speed manual transmission
• Four speed manual transmission with floor shift
• Two speed Powerglide automatic transmission
The four-speed manual gearbox with console mounted gear lever was particularly associated with the GTS performance models.
Suspension and Steering
The HK Monaro used Holden’s well proven suspension layout combined with additional stabilisation and optional power assistance.
Key suspension and steering features included:
• Independent front suspension with coil springs
• Stabiliser bar fitted to front suspension
• Semi-elliptic rear leaf springs
• Telescopic shock absorbers
• Optional power steering
This configuration provided stable handling and predictable road behaviour while maintaining reasonable ride comfort.
Braking System
Braking performance was improved on performance models through the use of power assisted braking systems and optional front disc brakes.
Braking features included:
• Dual circuit hydraulic braking system
• Power assisted brakes available
• Front disc brakes standard on GTS 327 models
• Rear drum brakes
HK Monaro Dimensions
• Wheelbase — 111 inches
• Overall length — approximately 192 inches
• Overall width — approximately 71 inches
• Seating capacity — 5 passengers
The long wheelbase and wide body provided a stable driving platform while still allowing the coupe styling that defined the Monaro.
While this guide helps identify common specifications and features of the HK Monaro, 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.