My Muscle Car
Car: Holden Monaro HT GTS Hometown: Melbourne, VIC
My Muscle Car has expanded for 2018. Check out our six-strong line-up of reader rides from page 72 – old, not so old, Ford, Holden and Chrysler.
What is it? “It’s a HT Monaro GTS fitted with the original 186S engine and original Powerglide automatic. It’s painted in original Kashmir White with the original vinyl roof.” When did you buy it? “I bought the car about four years ago from my uncle. He in turn had bought it from his dad, who purchased it brand new from Preston Motors in Essendon.” Why did you buy it? “My brothers both had Monaros when we were in our early twenties. I myself had a HQ Monaro but I always loved the shape of the first generation. We all ended up selling our Monaros for the going rate at the time, which was only about $3500. It is, of course, a massive regret. I spent the next 20-odd years dreaming about getting another one at some point! It was to my delight when I was offered my uncle’s car. He used it as a daily driver, and when he handed me the keys he also gave me an envelope of around 50 notes that had been left on his windscreen over the years from want-to-be
buyers! The only reason he sold it was because the steering was getting a bit much for his arms. He went and bought a new Toyota Camry.” What do you know about its life? “When I got it, the car was untouched but in pretty good condition. My uncle had done a couple of little mods security-wise, like a Lockwood front door lock that would also lock the auto. Other than that, it was untouched. I should add he also put some tape on the speedo that marked 60km/h and 100km/h, as the speedo is in miles-per-hour. The Monaro club asked if I would not restore it, as it was a great example of a car that had been untouched for the past 50 years. However, I couldn’t help myself and have restored the car to the day it rolled out of the showroom. I also had the engine rebuilt – and I’m pleasantly surprised with how strong the engine is. Just the other day I was driving along a back road sitting on 80 miles per hour and it still had plenty to go.” Anything you’d like to add? “In a way the Monaro has always been part of the family. It will stay that way, as I plan to give the car to my son for his 21st.” ED: Troy is a third-generation Speedcar driver, owns a bike store and is a drummer. Diverse!