1969 HOLDEN HT MONARO GTS

MODEL OVERVIEW:

The Holden HT Monaro GTS, released in June 1969 as part of the HT facelift, represented the second chapter in Holden’s coupe lineage. The streamlined silhouette remained, with new grille and tail lights fitted. The GTS package added a new distinctive stripe and decal treatment, along with new sports instrumentation including a central Tacho. Buyers could specify a wide choice of powerplants, from the 186 six-cylinder through to Holden’s own new 253 and 308 V8s, as well as imported Chevrolet small-blocks — the 307 and the 350 V8, making the HT the first Holden to officially offer the legendary 350 V8 engine . With performance to match its aggressive styling, the HT Monaro GTS quickly became a favorite on road and track, highlighted by the GTS 350’s Bathurst victory at the 1969 Hardie-Ferodo 500,  in the hands of Colin Bond and Tony Roberts . Today, the HT GTS remains one of the most desirable Australian muscle cars, prized for its blend of style, history, and V8 pedigree.

AUCTION CAR:

On offer is a beautifully restored 1969 Holden HT Monaro GTS, confirmed as a genuine 80737-coded GTS example. Finished in its original factory-correct Code 11905 Verdoro Green, the metallic hue highlights the coupe’s sweeping roofline and muscular proportions, while the contrasting Code 10X black interior provides the perfect performance-oriented complement. This car has undergone a comprehensive restoration that has returned its body, trim and presentation to a standard befitting one of Holden’s most iconic models.
 
While true to its factory specification in colour and detailing, this GTS has been upgraded with strengthened and performance-focused mechanicals to ensure it drives every bit as good as it looks. Under the bonnet sits an era-correct Chevrolet 350 cubic-inch V8, delivering a healthy increase in power and torque over the original offerings, yet retaining the Monaro’s authentic character. The engine is paired with a Turbo 400 automatic transmission and a Salisbury 10-bolt limited-slip differential with a 3.55:1 ratio, a proven combination for strength, reliability and spirited performance. Suspension, steering and braking systems have all been rebuilt or renewed, giving the car a solid, confidence-inspiring feel on the road.
 
The result is a Monaro GTS that blends authenticity with usability—presented in its original colours with all the correct striping, badging and brightwork restored, while benefitting from mechanical enhancements that make it a more engaging and dependable driver. 
 

DRIVE - LINE:

Under the bonnet, this HT Monaro GTS has been renewed mechanically. Power comes from an era-correct performance Chevrolet 350 cubic-inch V8, that offers a substantial step up in output while staying true to the GTS’s original character. The V8 runs a thundering exhaust system with extractors and twin system delivering both strong performance and the right soundtrack.
 
Backing the engine is a rebuilt Turbo 400 automatic transmission, long regarded for its strength and reliability in handling high-torque applications. Power is fed through to a Salisbury 10-bolt limited-slip differential fitted with a 3.55:1 ratio centre, ensuring both brisk acceleration and highway cruising. Supporting the driveline, the suspension, steering and braking system has been renewed with restored components, bushings and springs.
 
The result is a Monaro that drives as impressively as it looks — offering dependable durability and the unmistakable feel of a nicely restored GTS.

EXTERIOR:

Finished in its original factory Code Verdoro Green, this HT Monaro GTS has benefited from a complete body restoration carried out to a very high standard. The body was taken back to bare metal before being refinished, with all panels carefully aligned to ensure crisp body lines, consistent gaps and a flawless silhouette. The metallic Verdoro Green paintwork now presents with a deep lustre, accentuating the coupe’s sweeping roofline and muscular rear quarters. Every trim component has been restored or replaced during the process, including the GTS-specific grille, tail-light assemblies, bumpers, lenses, stainless mouldings and brightwork, all of which now gleam against the fresh paint. Correct GTS striping and factory badges have been reapplied to complete the authentic exterior presentation. Sitting over period-style wheels and tyres, the car carries the purposeful stance expected of a GTS, while the level of finish achieved throughout the restoration lifts the car well beyond original showroom condition. The result is a Monaro that is faithful to its factory specification, yet elevated by the meticulous quality of its renewal.

Note Well: The paintwork is showing signs of incorrect paint preparation. Stunning from afar, with closer inspection revealing imperfection across the paintwork. Inspection is advised to gauge in person.

INTERIOR:

Inside, this HT Monaro GTS presents as fully renewed, having undergone a comprehensive re-trim in factory-style black to original GTS specification. The front bucket seats, centre console and sports dash cluster – hallmarks of the GTS package – have all been restored to their correct appearance and feel. The fresh upholstery brings back the deep texture and sheen of the original vinyl, while the matching carpets and headlining have been replaced, reinstating the cabin’s period character. Every surface has been attended to, from the door cards and parcel shelf through to the dash pad and instrumentation surrounds, ensuring a consistent finish throughout. The sports instrumentation with its centrally mounted tachometer, once again commands attention, combining functionality with unmistakable style. A B&M Quicksilver Shifter has been added for performance duties being the only non original specification item. Retaining its period-correct layout but renewed with modern craftsmanship, the cabin now offers a presentation that is both faithful to its factory origins and elevated by the quality of the restoration. Very clean and crisp.
 

SUMMARY:

This restored 1969 Holden HT Monaro GTS 80737 represents an excellent example of one of Australia’s most iconic muscle cars. Finished in its original Verdoro Green with black trim and benefiting from an uprated Drive-line, it blends originality with enhanced drive-ability. A true head-turner, it offers collectors and enthusiasts alike the chance to own a standout example of Holden’s golden era of coupes.

 

Chassis Number: 80737TH587094

Engine Number: KO504CNV

 

AUCTION DETAILS:

Estimate Price Guide: $80,000 - $100,000 +
 
Inspections: By appointment
Location: Chicane Auctions Showroom - Melbourne
 
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AUCTION START: Thursday October 16th
 
AUCTION CLOSE: Thursday October 23rd from 8:30pm (AEST)
 
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More information visit: WWW.CHICANEAUCTIONS.COM.AU
 
Or
 
Phone our Melbourne Office on (03) 9580 7369
 
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About Chicane Auctions:
 
Based in Melbourne, Chicane Auctions are specialists in Collector, Performance & Rare Cars.
 
Chicane Auctions do not charge their Sellers any fees or cost, to Sell their cars.