1969 Holden HT Monaro GTS 253 Coupe

Description

Holden created a legend when it launched the Monaro sports coupe in July 1968, the first time an Australian car manufacturer attempted the fastback style popularised by models like the Mustang and Camaro in the USA. The original HK Monaro proved a runaway hit and there was no question it would continue when the facelifted HT series was unveiled in May 1969. The Monaro's glamorous styling was left largely alone, with the most obvious external changes being a revised grille made from ABS plastic and a squared-off tail section featuring stacked lights. An increasing number of Monaro buyers selected automatic transmission, reflecting a shift in buyer attitudes, and even the hero 350 GTS model was available with the Powerglide 'box. Most Monaros were equipped with the 186S six-cylinder or one of two locally-designed V8s (either in 253 or 308-cid configuration, the latter replacing the imported 307-cid once stocks dried up). Mechanical improvements made across the HT range included the adoption of neoprene rubber front suspension bushes, replacing the steel bushings used on the HK, resulting in a much more comfortable, quieter ride. The interior also came in for some changes, with a new seat design, door trims and revised instrumentation using more conventional round dials in place of the HK's dated strip speedo. The Bathurst homologation special 327 was replaced with the new GTS 350, using Chevrolet's legendary small-block V8. This became Holden's new Bathurst hero, with Harry Firth masterminding the Holden Dealer Team operation for the first time and Colin Bond teamed up with Tony Roberts to score a fine win in the Mount Panorama enduro, while Des West and Peter Brock joined forces to finish third. The HK/HT/HG Monaros are reaching new levels of popularity with collectors, as they become properly appreciated for their place in Australian motoring history.