Andrew Middleton's 1968 Holden HK Monaro is a testament to the evolution of automotive trends and the art of customization. What began as a simple desire for a classic car transformed into a masterpiece, showcasing the passion and dedication of its owner. This story is not just about a car; it's about the journey of a man who embraced the spirit of modification and the joy of driving.
A Serendipitous Discovery
Andrew's love for cars started with a dream of owning a 1968-1969 Camaro. However, fate had other plans. On a fateful day, he stumbled upon a 1968 HK Monaro, and it was love at first sight. The car, painted in Silver Mink with Simmons wheels and grey velour-style trim, was a time capsule from the 90s. This was the beginning of a transformation that would take years and countless hours of work.
The Evolution of Power
The first modification was the engine. Andrew wanted more power, so he opted for a 434-cube small-block Chev built by Dave Lee Race Engines. This engine, filled with World Products Motown block and Dart Pro 1 Race 20-degree heads, was a powerhouse. With a hydraulic-roller cam, it produced good power, but Andrew wasn't satisfied. He wanted more spice, so he upgraded to a big-inch small-block, further enhancing the car's performance.
The Art of Customization
As the engine was being worked on, the car's exterior was also undergoing a transformation. Andrew decided to change the color from Silver Mink to DeBeers custom gold. This decision was not made lightly, and it required meticulous work by Pep Minutolo and his team at Elite Street Cars. The undercarriage was stripped, dipped, and blasted, revealing the secrets beneath the skin. The result was a car that exceeded Andrew's expectations, blowing his mind with its custom gold finish.
The Final Touches
The final touches were added by Dave Lee, who is known for his meticulous work. He made the car cosmetically perfect, and the engine was tuned to produce 700hp at the flywheel. Simon Pinnegar from HKTG Garage was also a crucial part of the team, providing everything from clips to screws. The car's suspension and brakes were also upgraded, and the wheels and tires were chosen to enhance the car's performance and aesthetics.
A Masterpiece is Born
The result is a masterpiece that won numerous awards, including Top Modified Coupe and Top Tough Street at the 2025 HK HT HG Nationals. But the story doesn't end there. Andrew's passion for cars is not limited to one vehicle. He also built an HG Monaro as a roller for his wife to drive, showcasing his dedication to the craft.
A Journey of Passion
This story is a testament to the power of passion and the joy of driving. It's about a man who embraced the spirit of modification and the art of customization. It's about a car that evolved from a simple desire to a masterpiece, and it's about the journey of a man who found joy in every step of the process. In my opinion, this is what makes the automotive world so fascinating - the endless possibilities and the joy of creating something unique.
