The HQ series of Holdens were produced between 1971 and 1974.

The HQ SS model was based on the Belmont model and produced by Holden to test the market as a pre-cursor to the Holden GTS Monaros.

All cars were fitted with a high-compression Holden 253ci (4.2 litre) Australian V8 coupled to a 4-speed manual transmission. There were only three colour choices: Infra Red, Ultra Violet and Lettuce Alone. It was the first Holden to be fitted with Radial ply tyres as standard.

Touted as “A super sporty heart starter”, timing of the release was perfect and they sold out quickly – the original run of 1,500 was extended to 2,800 in total.

The demand for these cars led to Holden releasing the 4-door Monaro in 1973.

THE CAR

Finished in stunning Infra Red with black stripes (data plate paint code matches), this car was recently repainted and “re-striped” and presents extremely well.

Like all HQ SS vehicles, the car is powered by a 253ci Holden V8 engine coupled to a four-speed manual transmission and standard differential. This car has power steering.

Sitting on its original restored SS rims with new tyres, the car’s stance is fantastic. This example has its correct steering wheel, Monaro dash and original radio.

During the restoration new bumper bars were fitted and the front brakes were overhauled. The interior is in factory condition with new houndstooth seat trims and new correct door trims.

Work recently completed includes a new master cylinder, repairs to the steering shaft, replacing outer tie rod ends, new sway bar D-bushes, new clutch, machining of the flywheel, sorting transmission leaks, new rear wheel cylinders, new rear brake shoes and wheel alignment.

There are just over 380 examples known to still exist on the SS register making this a rare example of early Holden muscle.