VZ Monaro CV8

In 1968 Holden released the first Monaro, the HK Monaro. There were a myriad of engine and transmission combinations for the monaro with the 327c.u. chev being the flagship. Sadly the monaro was phased out in 1979 with the Holden HZ and went missing until 2001 when holden re-released the Monaro with an all new look. The basics were still there - big v8 (5.7L LS1 engine and 6spd manual or 4spd automatic transmission).

After only 5 years Holden has again decided to take the Monaro out of production. But thankfully Holden in all their wisdom has released a feature packed Monaro as a send off.

Bring in the HZ Monaro CV8 - twin scoops in the bonnet coupled with a larger intake give this Monaro a far more aggressive styling right from the outset. Walk around the car and the 2 door coupe seems to keep it’s styling but once you reach the back there are two bass burbling 95mm chrome plated exhaust tips. New deep dish 18″ five spoke rims are more aggressive in styling than the previous offerings and for my money are a much better design.

Unfortunately the VZMonaro isn’t fitted with the new LS2 motor but Holden have managed to squeeze an extra 15kw out of the LS1 to bring peak power upto 260kw at a whopping 5600rpm with 500nm torque! The twin 95mm exhaust tips combined with new camshaft give the Monaro a serious exhaust note that with a little massaging would burble away beautifully.

Increased power combined with a closer ratio 6spd gives the new Monaro alot more punch off the line and reduces the sluggishness experienced in 6th gear (i’ve got a VT with a 5.7L LS1 and 6th gear isn’t much good for anything when it comes to acceleration).

Personally I can’t say i’m much of a fan of the new colour ‘Turismo’ it’s a light blue, pastelly colour and quite frankly it belongs on a tonka truck not a Monaro. Black, yellow or red should be the only color options for this beautiful car.

Fast Facts

The fuel tank has been relocated to between rear wheels and rear seat to allow the fitment of an underbody deflector to help with the reduction of rearlift at highspeed.

Brakes

Twin spot calipers are fitted on all four paws with 320mm diameter discs up front and 286mm on the rear.

The fuel filler has been repositioned to top of the rear guard due to the tank relocation. This is a sexy update for the Monaro, gives it more of a race feel.

2005 VZ Monaro CV8 Specifications
Engine
Type: V8
Displacement cu in (cc): 346 (5665)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM: 349(260) / 5600
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: 369(500) / 4000
Redline at RPM: n.a.
Brakes & Tires
Brakes F/R: ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R: n.a.
Driveline: Rear Wheel Drive
Exterior Dimensions & Weight
Length × Width × Height in: 187.1 × 71.8 × 54.5
Weight lb (kg): 3730 (1692)
Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s: n.a.
Top Speed mph (km/h): n.a.
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): n.a.