Holden HT Monaro specifications
10 facts you may not have known
The HT replaced the HK in 1969. Models progressively got swapped over starting with the Belmont, Kingswood and Premier model range in May 1969. June 1969 would see the Brougham and Monaro variants introduced to the Australian buying public.
It would represent a minor cosmetic facelift to the HK Holden that it replaced with a revised grille and tail lights. Many cannot tell the difference visually between the HK and the HT.
Mechanically, the 2 6 cylinder engine options remained. The 161 and the 186 ‘Red’ engine. The V8 engine line up would change however. The now iconic range of Australian V8’s, the 253 cubic inch and the 308 cubic inch V8, would first be seen in the HT. They replaced the imported 307 cubic inch unit. The 327 cubic inch imported V8 would be replaced by another American import, the 350 cubic inch Chevrolet V8.
The HT also came with revised suspension and synchromesh on all forward gears on manual transmissions. Transmissions available were a 3 speed manual, a 4 speed manual and a 2 speed ‘Powerglide’ automatic. This would give drivers of the HT a smoother, more comfortable drive when compared to the HK.
After a production run of 183 402 cars, the HT would be replaced 14 months later, by the HG in July 1970.
It would be known as the first Holden to be available with an Australian built V8. The now iconic 308 and 253 are still popular today.