1973 Holden HQ GTS 350 Monaro - Tangerine - Concours Restored

68 photos

New Mortdale, NSW, 2223

1973 Holden HQ GTS 350 Monaro - Tangerine - Concours Restored

$279,990

Odometer 760 km

Body type Sedan

Fuel Petrol

Transmission M41 - Turbo 400 3Sp Auto

Vehicle Overview

1973 Holden Monaro GTS 350.

This 1973 Holden HQ GTS 350 Monaro is a highly detailed example of one of Australia’s most recognisable muscle cars. Finished in its original Tangerine colour with Lone O’Ranger stripes and Doeskin trim with Chestnut accents, it combines a distinctive factory-era colour scheme with the visual impact expected of a concours-level restoration. The four-door sedan body also gives the car a practical presence that distinguishes it from more common two-door performance cars of the period.

The Monaro was built at GMH’s Melbourne plant and was originally sold through Motors Pty Ltd in Hobart, Tasmania. Its documented identity is supported by a Holden Historical Services Letter of Verification and an extensive restoration portfolio. With only 214 HQ GTS 350 sedans produced, including just 160 fitted with the Turbo 400 automatic transmission, this specification represents a particularly scarce combination within the HQ range.

A full nut-and-bolt, body-off-chassis restoration was completed approximately five years ago using the original body. The work was carried out to a very high standard, with the vehicle’s components restored, rebuilt, refinished or recalibrated throughout. The result is a car intended to be appreciated as much for its presentation and authenticity as for its mechanical character, with careful attention evident in the paint finish, detailing and overall execution.

Power comes from a period-correct QU-prefix 350ci V8. Rather than leaving the engine entirely standard, the rebuild includes professional blueprinting and balancing together with a hydraulic roller camshaft, roller rockers, match-ported cylinder heads and oversized valves. These changes are aimed at improving the engine’s refinement and response while retaining the familiar character of the Chevrolet-derived small-block used in the GTS 350.

The factory M41 Turbo 400 three-speed automatic has been upgraded with a shift kit and a 3,000 rpm high-stall converter. This is paired with a Salisbury limited-slip differential using a 3.08:1 ratio, a combination that suits relaxed cruising while retaining the traction and mechanical engagement associated with a period Australian performance sedan. A full stainless-steel dual exhaust system completes the engine and drivetrain package, while factory-style HQ power steering adds convenience without changing the car’s visual identity.

For an owner, the appeal lies in the balance between rarity, documented provenance, restored presentation and usable mechanical specification. The sedan format makes the HQ GTS 350 feel substantial and versatile, while the Tangerine and Doeskin combination ensures it remains immediately distinctive at a show, club event or on the open road. The low displayed odometer reading, detailed restoration record and supporting verification letter provide useful reference points for anyone assessing the car’s condition and authenticity.

350ci V8 with QU-prefix period-correct engine
Turbo 400 three-speed automatic transmission
Salisbury limited-slip differential with 3.08:1 ratio
Hydraulic roller camshaft, roller rockers, match-ported heads and oversized valves
Full stainless-steel dual exhaust system
Factory-style HQ power steering
Tangerine exterior with Lone O’Ranger stripes
Doeskin trim with Chestnut accents
Holden Historical Services Letter of Verification
Extensive restoration portfolio

Other highlights include Odometer: 760 km; Powertrain: Petrol; Transmission: M41 - Turbo 400 3sp Auto; Drive train: Salisbury limited-slip differential, 3.08:1 ratio; Engine or motor: L30 - 350ci V8; Exterior colour: 568-12692 - Tangerine; Interior colour: 1816-38X - Doeskin.