The Holden HK Monaro GTS 327 was introduced in 1968 as the high-performance version of Holden’s new Monaro coupe. Designed to compete with international muscle cars, the GTS 327 combined the Monaro’s stylish two-door body with Chevrolet V8 power and a range of performance-oriented mechanical upgrades.
The model quickly gained recognition after its success in Australian motorsport, particularly endurance racing events. With strong V8 performance, upgraded suspension and improved braking systems, the HK Monaro GTS 327 became one of the most significant Australian performance cars of the late 1960s.
HK Monaro GTS 327 Engine
The defining feature of the GTS 327 was its Chevrolet small-block V8 engine, which delivered significantly greater performance than the six-cylinder engines used in other Monaro models.
Key engine specifications included:
• Engine type — Chevrolet small block V8
• Displacement — 327 cubic inches (5.4 litres)
• Bore and stroke — 4.00 in × 3.25 in
• Maximum power — approximately 250 bhp at 4,600 rpm
• Compression ratio — approximately 10.5:1
• Carburetion — four-barrel carburettor
This engine provided strong acceleration and high-speed touring ability, helping establish the Monaro’s performance reputation.
Transmission Options
The GTS 327 was primarily associated with manual transmission performance driving, although an automatic option was also available.
Transmission choices included:
• Four-speed manual gearbox with floor shift
• Two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission
The four-speed manual transmission was the most popular configuration and allowed drivers to make full use of the V8 engine’s performance.
Suspension and Handling
To manage the increased performance of the V8 engine, the GTS 327 used improved suspension components compared with standard Monaro models.
Suspension features included:
• Independent front suspension with coil springs
• Front stabiliser bar
• Heavy-duty suspension components
• Semi-elliptic rear leaf springs
• Telescopic shock absorbers
This configuration provided improved stability and road holding while maintaining reasonable ride comfort for road use.
Braking System
Braking performance was upgraded on the GTS 327 to handle the higher speeds the vehicle could achieve.
Braking features included:
• Power assisted braking system
• Front disc brakes
• Rear drum brakes
• Dual circuit hydraulic braking system
Front disc brakes were a key performance upgrade compared with many standard models of the period.
HK Monaro GTS 327 Dimensions
• Wheelbase — 111 inches
• Overall length — approximately 192 inches
• Overall width — approximately 71 inches
• Seating capacity — 5 passengers
The coupe body combined sporty styling with practical passenger space, making the GTS 327 suitable for both performance driving and everyday use.
Interior and Equipment
The GTS 327 included several driver-focused interior features that reinforced its performance character.
Notable equipment included:
• Bucket front seats
• Centre console with floor mounted gear lever
• Sports instrumentation
• Optional tachometer
• Push button transistor radio
• Luxury interior trim
These features helped position the GTS 327 as a performance-oriented grand touring coupe.
While this guide outlines the key specifications and features of the HK Monaro GTS 327, the Holden Monaro workshop manual available from Car Manuals Direct include the original GTS 307 V8 specifications, adjustment settings and repair procedures used by Holden mechanics when servicing HK-HT-HG Holden vehicles and their standard mechanical components.