2. 1968 Holden Monaro GTS 327
Ford’s Bathurst victory in 1967 started a muscle car war between Ford and its archrival Holden. Understanding the Falcon GT XR concept, Holden engineers presented their muscle car with a bigger engine and better components. So, in 1968, the first Australian two-door muscle car was born – the Holden Monaro GTS 327. This car looked and sounded like a proper muscle car coupe. It featured a two-door Monaro body with bigger wheels, a graphics package, a sportier interior and Chevrolet’s 327 V8 engine under the hood.
The V8 produced 250 HP which was more than enough for an exciting performance. Immediately, Holden pitted the new Monaro muscle car against the Falcon GT in Australian touring car races. The GTS 327 won the 1968 Bathurst race, which was the first Holden victory on that track. The appearance of Holden’s muscle competitor showed that major Australian manufacturers were taking the muscle car class seriously and the best was yet to come.