The HZ GTS stands as the very last evolution of the original Holden GTS sports sedan.
A car that marked the end of the Kingswood era with style, refinement and one of the most important engineering upgrades Holden had ever undertaken.
By the time the HZ arrived in October 1977, the two door Monaro coupe had already finished as the HX LE model, leaving the GTS name to carry the torch as the performance four-door sedan.
While the four-door no longer wore the Monaro badge in HZ guise, in the eyes of enthusiasts it was still the final link to a proud model lineage and a distinctly Australian one.
Styling and interior
At first glance, the HZ GTS carried a stronger, more mature look than the earlier HQ-HX predecessors. The quad-headlight front fascia, front and rear spoilers, unique GTS grille and colour-coded bumper bars gave it the street presence that stood out.
Inside, the GTS welcomed its driver with a full set of sports gauges nestled into the signature dash, a GTS steering wheel firm in hand and a tempting range of sporty trim options.
All reminders that this was no ordinary Holden, but a proud slice of Australian motoring at its end of line finest.
Radial tuned suspension
But what truly set the HZ GTS apart wasn’t cosmetic, it was the way it drove.
Holden’s Radial Tuned Suspension (RTS) transformed the car from a traditional Aussie cruiser into something more akin to a European-style sports sedan.
RTS was a ground-up re-engineering of Holden’s suspension geometry and damping to work in harmony with radial tyres, which had by then become the new standard in motoring.
Earlier Holdens, including HQs and HXs, while strong and comfortable, had vague steering and a tendency to wallow through corners.
RTS changed that completely. Under the guidance of GM engineers with European experience, Holden dialled in sharper turn-in, reduced body roll, and far greater mid-corner confidence.
The HZ GTS with RTS, was the first large Holden sedan that truly handled well.
Driveline and performance
Under the bonnet, buyers had a choice between Holden’s own 4.2-litre V8 or the more potent 5.0 litre 308 cubic inch V8.
While the 253 still had a great soundtrack, producing around 120kW and ample low-down torque, the 308 was the hero powerplant, putting out 161kW and 400Nm.
From mid-1978 onwards, the 5.0 litre became the only engine offered in GTS specification.
Mated to either a Trimatic automatic, Aussie four-speed manual or the optional heavy-duty Turbo 400 automatic, the 308 5.0 versions gave the HZ GTS genuine muscle car credentials.
Braking was another area where the HZ GTS stepped up its game.
It was the first full-size Holden sedan fitted with four-wheel disc brakes as standard — a vital addition considering the performance on tap.
Combine that with RTS and a well-sorted live rear axle with coils, and the HZ GTS delivered a level of dynamic confidence no Holden had previously offered, apart from the race inspired Torana A9X.
Rarity and legacy
Only around 1,438 examples of the HZ GTS were ever built, making it one of the rarest GTS-badged Holdens of all.
As production wound up in December 1978, so too did the curtain fall on Holden’s full-size performance sedans. The new Commodore platform was just around the corner, offering a different kind of car for a new era — but for many, it lacked the character and muscle of the H-series.
Today, the HZ GTS occupies a unique place in Holden history. It’s the car that finally bridged the gap between raw V8 grunt and genuine dynamic handling in a full sized Holden sedan.
With its muscular stance, improved engineering, and limited build numbers, it is now quietly establishing itself as one of the best Australian classics.
For collectors, especially those seeking the best of the big-bodied V8 sedans with real road manners, the HZ GTS represents a turning point — and a final salute to an era of confident, homegrown performance.
Example car
Chicane Auctions are proud to present this true survivor example pictured, available in our upcoming MAY AUCTION.
A highly optioned, two-owner 1978 Holden HZ GTS – featuring the factory 5.0-litre V8, Turbo 400 automatic, factory air conditioning, power steering and a sexy Tartan interior!
This vehicle is accompanied by all original Holden delivery books and documentation, along with its 2nd Owner verified low 80,881 kilometres driven from new.
A true survivor and a standout among classic Holden sedans, this last of the line HZ GTS is available in our upcoming May 6th–15th Showroom Auction.
Available for inspection by appointment. Visit www.chicaneauctions.com.au or Call 03 9580 7369 for all details.