HOLDEN HT GTS MONARO

HOLDEN HT GTS MONARO 

The Holden HT series is a range of automobiles which was produced by Holden in Australia between 1969 and 1970.

Holden HT Belmont, Kingswood and Premier models were introduced in May 1969, replacing their Holden HK series equivalents which had been in production since 1968. HT Brougham and Monaro models followed in June 1969. Noticeable changes from the HK series included new grilles, new taillights, flatter rear flanks and a wider back window. Other changes included increased track width, revised suspension, a new instrument panel and synchromesh on all forward gears on manual gearbox models.

The 161-cubic-inch (2.6-litre) and 186-cubic-inch (3.0-litre) six-cylinder engines were carried over from the HK range. Australian manufactured 253-cubic-inch (4.2-litre) and 308-cubic-inch (5.0-litre) V8 engines were new, replacing the imported 307-cubic-inch (5.0-litre) V8s. Initially the 308 was only fitted to the Brougham, and existing stocks of the imported 307 were used in other models. Once these supplies were exhausted, the 308 V8 was made available as an option across the HT range. The 327-cubic-inch (5.3-litre) Chevrolet V8 that had powered the HK Monaro GTS 327 was replaced by a 350-cubic-inch (5.8-litre) Chevrolet V8 in the newly introduced HT Monaro GTS 350 model. Three-speed manual, four-speed manual and two-speed “Powerglide” automatic transmissions were offered.

A smaller, 2,130 cc (130 cu in) version of Holden’s inline-six Red motor (“130 HC”) was available for export markets. It produced 90 hp (67 kW) at 4400 rpm and was meant for higher octane fuel.

The HT range was replaced by the Holden HG series in July 1970, production having totaled 183,402 units.

The HT utility was assembled in South Africa as the Chevrolet El Camino. The interior, front fascia, and badging were unique to South Africa and it received either a Chevrolet 250 cu in (4.1 L) six-cylinder engine or the V8. Less than 500 Holdens were exported in this way.

HOLDEN HT GTS MONARO