6 of Holden’s most memorable models

Posted 14 May, 2020 Samuel Smith

In the wake of General Motors’ decision to retire Holden at the end of 2020, we look back at some of the company’s greatest automotive achievements and the models that missed the mark.   From horse saddles to V8s, Holden’s 164-year legacy is synonymous with Australian culture. For generations, we’ve relied on Commodores to get us to work, piled the kids in Astras for school runs and cheered on Monaros and Toranas – now the stuff of legend – as they’ve reached whip-cracking speeds at the Bathurst 1000. Throughout its long and prosperous life, Holden has given birth to some of the most iconic cars on our streets. Think firebreathing SS Commodores, plush Kingswoods, exclusive HSV Statesmans and the first car ‘made in Australia, for Australia’ – the 48-215.   That said, no legacy is complete without its share of blemishes. Anyone who’s had the unfortunate experience of travelling more than 100km/h in a Viva or attempted to drive a Camira anywhere without breaking down will know what we’re talking about. For better and worse, Holden has been an integral part of Australian life for more than a century. To say goodbye, we’re getting behind the wheel of Holden’s most memorable models, one last time.  

The hits

Holden HK Monaro

Year made 1968 Engine range 2.6L straight 6–5.4L V8 Price when new $2575–$3790 Price today $40,000–$123,000  

Why we’ll remember it

Ah, the HK Monaro – Holden’s original, and arguably best, coupé. Taking inspiration from muscle royalty (Chevrolet’s Camaro, Corvair and Nova), the HK Monaro was a sight to behold. Proving it had as much substance as it did style, buyers could choose from a plethora of high-performance engines paired with a range of automatic and manual transmissions. The Monaro GTS327 won Holden its first Bathurst 500 victory in 1968 and went on to win Wheels Car of the Year.  

Holden VB Commodore

Years made 1978–1980 Engine range 2.8L straight 6–4.2L V8 Price when new $7192–$13,363 Price today $4000–$50,000  

Why we’ll remember it

Despite its Frankenstein-esque beginnings, the VB Commodore – an Opel Rekord and Opel Senator mash-up – went on to win Wheels Car of the Year, and the hearts of Australian motorists. Praised for its fuel-efficiency, beefy range of engines and sophisticated engineering, it was Australia’s best-selling car in 1979, proving that being smaller, smarter and weirder than your competitors can work in your favour.  

Holden HZ series

Years made 1977–1980 Engine range 3.3L straight 6–5.0L V8 Price when new $2745–$4623 Price today $10,000–$30,000