The Holden Monaro V2 Series was introduced as a modern two-door coupe developed from the VX Series Commodore platform. Unlike the sedan models, the Monaro featured unique coupe sheetmetal including new front doors, rear quarter panels, roof panel and rear compartment lid, along with a revised A-pillar angle that helped create the distinctive coupe profile and reduced rear overhang.
The V2 Monaro also incorporated a range of design and structural changes compared with sedan models. These included modified side skirts, new front and rear bumper facias and encapsulated glass replacing the rear door window arrangement used on Commodore sedans. Interior revisions included new trim components, redesigned floor mats, revised headlining and a two-passenger rear seat arrangement designed specifically for the coupe body structure.
Additional equipment included eight-way EZ Entry front seats to improve rear passenger access, with a memory-type driver’s seat fitted to CV8 models. Retuned sports suspension and a multi-link rear suspension system were also introduced to improve handling and driving stability.
V2 Model Range
The Holden Monaro V2 Series was produced in two primary coupe models.
• Monaro CV6
• Monaro CV8
Both models were two-door coupes designed to combine strong performance with the comfort and mechanical layout of the Commodore platform.
Engine Specifications
The V2 Series Monaro was available with two engine configurations depending on model specification.
• 3.8 litre supercharged V6 – 3791 cc displacement producing approximately 171 kW at 5200 rpm and 375 Nm of torque at 3000 rpm
• 5.7 litre GEN III V8 – 5667 cc displacement producing approximately 225 kW at 5200 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 4400 rpm
These engines provided a balance of strong performance, durability and smooth operation suitable for a modern Australian performance coupe.
Transmission Specifications
Transmission options varied depending on engine and model configuration.
6-speed manual transmission
• 1st gear – 2.66:1
• 2nd gear – 1.78:1
• 3rd gear – 1.30:1
• 4th gear – 1.00:1
• 5th gear – 0.74:1
• 6th gear – 0.50:1
• Reverse – 2.90:1
4-speed automatic transmission
• 1st gear – 3.06:1
• 2nd gear – 1.63:1
• 3rd gear – 1.00:1
• 4th gear – 0.70:1
• Reverse – 2.29:1
Vehicle Dimensions
• Vehicle length – 4802 mm
• Vehicle width – 1824 mm
• Vehicle height – 1400 mm
• Wheelbase – 2788 mm
• Front track – 1569 mm
• Rear track – 1587 mm
These dimensions contributed to the Monaro’s wide stance and stable high-speed performance.
Vehicle Weights
Kerb weight varied depending on engine and transmission configuration.
• CV6 automatic – approximately 1603 kg
• CV8 automatic – approximately 1645 kg
• CV8 manual – approximately 1640 kg
Typical payload capacity was approximately 340 kg, including passengers and luggage.
Vehicle Identification
V2 Series vehicles are identified by a combination of VIN plates and identification plates fitted to the vehicle body. The Vehicle Identification Number is visible through the windscreen and is also stamped into the floor below the front right-hand seat. Additional identification plates are fitted to the dash panel and radiator support panel to assist with vehicle identification and servicing.
While this guide helps identify common specifications and features of the Monaro V2 Series, the Holden workshop manuals available from Car Manuals Direct include the original specifications, adjustment settings and repair procedures used by Holden mechanics when servicing V2 Holden vehicles and their standard mechanical components.