The HK Holden Monaro was released in July 1968 six months after the launch of the HK series, which saw the introduction of a two door coupe to the Holden range for the first time. Available in three models, Monaro, Monaro GTS and Monaro GTS 327. The HK improvements along with the Monaro included an energy-absorbing steering column and steering wheel (a local first), standard front seat belts with anchorages for rear seat belts, a dual circuit braking system and extensive interior safety padding. The HK Monaro went on to win the Wheels Car of the Year award in 1968.
Price when new for 1968 HK Monaro GTS 327 four speed manual: $3790.00.
The HX Holden LE Coupe was launched in September 1976 and was not known ‘officially’ as a Monaro. The HX LE was created due to leftover Monaro body shells and Statesman Caprice parts. All were painted in a unique colour called LE Red with Gold Pinstriping and featured Holden’s 5.0 Litre 308ci V8. Other features included, air conditioning, Red velour trim with plaid inserts in the seats, matching deep cut pile carpets, walnut over the dash and centre console, three-spoke sports steering wheel. eight track cartridge tape player, power windows, automatic transmission, front and rear spoilers and honeycomb-style wheels, which were a plastic mould attached to the standard steel rim. All HX Holden LE Coupes were built at Holden’s Pagewood assembly plant in Sydney, NSW which would eventually close in 1980.
Total HX Holden LE Coupes produced: 580
Price when new for a 1976 HX Holden LE Coupe 5.0 Litre V8 automatic: $11,019.00
