1968 Holden Monaro HK GTS 307 Coupe

The HK represented a new generation for Holden when launched in 1968, being longer, wider and more roomy than its predecessors and came with the option of V8 power for the first time. In July 1968, the range was expanded to include a new two-door coupe known as the Monaro - a name that has become legend in the annals of Australian motoring history - and the Monaro GTS went on to score a maiden victory at Bathurst later that year, taking the first three places on its first attempt. The Chevrolet-sourced V8s were available in either 307-cid (5-litre) or 327-cid guise and the former was mostly sold with the Powerglide automatic transmission. The 307-cid engine had a compression ratio of 8.75:1, breathed through a Rochester 2-jet carburettor and developed 210bhp. Inside, the GTS Monaros boasted full instrumentation, with a console-mounted tacho and wood rim sports steering wheel and were distinguished externally with stripes and badging. The first Monaros, particularly the GTS models with V8 power, are now highly prized for their purity of line, being the first in a long line of legendary Aussie muscle cars.