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LONG before Volkswagen’s Golf underpinned seemingly everything from a pram to the Bugatti Chiron, Australia had its own modular vehicle platform in 1971.
This was the HQ Holden. Its scale was truly epic. It spawned seven bodystyles, even more variants, and almost half a million units over its lifespan. Better yet, it was entirely Australian. To complete the feat, Holden approached the HQ with the same methods it did the 48-215 by sandwiching a front-subframe with a monocoque bodyshell.
Among the combinations, the Monaro lingers as a standout pick. The Monaro entered its third phase on the HQ platform, and in two-door GTS spec, received a 5.0-litre V8, four-speed Muncie manual, and four-link rear suspension. Options included variable power steering, ventilated disc brakes, and bucket seats.
The Chevrolet 350 V8 made its last appearance in the HQ, and took the 308’s meek 176kW and 427Nm to a more appropriate 488Nm and 202kW. That’s less than the HG 350’s outputs, but there’s a reason. Exported from Canada, the engine catered to American emissions controls being introduced in 1973.
It was a harsh reality of an engineering program that prioritised ride and touring ability over track performance. Making leaps forward in other areas, the HQ Monaro was a better road car. The bodyshell was solidly built, with the four-door GTS being based on the coupe rather than the other way around.
HQ Monaro GTS 350 specs: On sale: 1971-1973 Engine: 5735cc V8, OHV, 16 valve Power: 488Nm @ 4800rpm Torque: 202kW@ 3200rpm 0-97 time: 8.0 seconds (claimed) Weight: 1451kg Price new: $4630
