Holden Monaro Reborn: A Second Life in an Unlikely Corner of the World
When Holden unveiled the Coupé concept at the 1998 Sydney motor show, Australia’s leading car maker surely hoped the Commodore-based two‑door would become one of the market’s most coveted models. In reality, the Monaro never reached those lofty expectations, leading to a relatively brief five‑year production run.
Today, the Monaro has matured into a cult classic. It’s been almost two decades since the final, third‑generation model rolled off the line, and with Holden no longer in operation, the car stands as a reminder of what many regard as the pinnacle of Australia’s automotive industry.
But the Monaro’s influence isn’t confined to Australia. Exported variants—the US‑spec Pontiac GTO and the UK‑market Vauxhall Monaro—boast their own devoted, niche fan bases across their respective regions.
The model also found life in the Middle East under the Chevrolet Lumina coupe badge. In Oman, a particular Lumina coupe is being lovingly restored by a local enthusiast, underscoring the model’s enduring appeal beyond its homeland.
On Instagram, user Ayman (https://www.instagram.com/p/DSHxeGYCK57/) shared a rust‑red Lumina coupe in need of serious TLC. He plans to restore it and integrate it with what appears to be his existing Lumina coupe, now rebadged as a Holden Monaro CV8.
This project will be a substantial undertaking. Not only is the exterior seriously deteriorated, but the interior is missing large swathes of trim and equipment.
The Lumina coupe shown is the top‑tier SS variant, which, like the Australian CV8, came with the 5.7‑liter LS1 V8 paired to a six‑speed manual. This particular car, however, is currently missing both its engine and gearbox.
An update video detailing the rest of the restoration has been teased and is expected to arrive in the near future.
Top 5: Holdens of all time (https://torquecafe.com/top-5-holdens-of-all-time/)
Jordan Mulach (https://torquecafe.com/author/jordantorquecafe-com/)
Motoring Editor
Jordan Mulach is an Australian motoring journalist with a background in motorsport reporting. He is a leading automotive news writer who blends industry insight with a passion for cars, sim racing, and all things motoring.
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