An original 1969 Holden HT Monaro GTS, powered by the sought-after 308 cubic inch Holden V8, is being offered for sale in Auckland, New Zealand, presenting collectors with an opportunity to acquire one of Australia’s most celebrated muscle cars.
Introduced in 1968, the Holden Monaro quickly became a defining figure in the nation’s performance car landscape. Produced through three first-generation variants — HK, HT and HG — the coupe blended American-inspired styling with local engineering. While its shape drew comparisons to cars like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, the Monaro established a distinct identity of its own and became a dominant force both in showrooms and on racetracks.
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Monaro GTS V8 models secured major motorsport achievements, including multiple wins at the Hardie-Ferodo 500 at Bathurst and victory in the 1970 Australian Touring Car Championship. Those successes cemented the car’s status as a genuine performance contender and elevated its reputation far beyond its striking coupe design.
The HT example now for sale is fitted with Holden’s in-house developed 308 cubic inch, 5.0-liter V8 engine, introduced in 1969. The 90-degree V8 featured pushrod-actuated valves and cross-flow heads, offering a lighter and more locally engineered alternative to the earlier Chevrolet-sourced 327 cubic inch V8. The engine became a flagship powerplant for Holden and remained central to the brand’s performance identity for decades.
This Monaro has covered approximately 104,000 miles and benefits from restoration work, including a respray in green and gold, Australia’s national colors. The interior retains a factory-style appearance, trimmed in antique gold leather and houndstooth cloth. Period features include wind-down windows with opening quarter vents, a lockable glovebox and a footwell-mounted fire extinguisher.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a two-speed automatic transmission. The car rides on 14-inch wheels fitted with Bridgestone tires.
Offered with documentation, invoices and original removed components, the Monaro reflects growing international interest in classic Australian muscle cars.