With the HQ series, Holden's design, engineering and manufacturing team delivered the definitive Australian car - new from the ground up and embracing the best of US and European trends.

The HQ's forward-reaching front, flowing rear lines and pronounced 'tumblehome' behind each wheel gave it a compact, ground-hugging look, even though it was bigger than previous models. The separate recessed grille reflected Euro trends while the bulging muscle lines above each wheel arch, the rounded tail and bumper-mounted rear lights were straight Pontiac GTO muscle car.

After it was blacked-out for the Monaro GTS, the HQ's standard silver grille became a road-devouring intake. The Monaro's pillarless coupe roofline and its wrap-over rear window were eye-catching. A new LS - 'luxury and sport' - Monaro with black vinyl roof and dual headlights combined Premier appointments with Monaro style.

The HQ was the most radically new model since 1948, and Monaro shared the benefits. It had a partial front subframe that extended to the centre pillar and a totally new rear suspension. It delivered new levels of structural strength, rough road stability and grip. Further features included a more comprehensive safety package, Holden's first flow-through ventilation, a demisting system, integrated air-conditioning, a new flat dash and slender front pillars for exceptional forward vision.

Holden sixes were also boosted in size, and there were hefty 10 bolt Salisbury limited slip differential rear axles on all V8 models. A new Aussie M21 4 speed close-ratio gearbox could be ordered with the local V8, the big Chevrolet 350 V8 scored a new Muncie 4 speed manual and the 350 was fitted with a Turbo-Hydramatic 400 auto shift.