Monaro: A Glorified 2-Door Commodore?

[GH1967]

That's the way my friend put it. :lol:

OK I am a car newbie and I am in love with the Monaro CV8. I'm looking at the latest model and I'm tossing up between a 2nd hand and new 2004 model.

I'm looking for general comments.

PROS
*sex on wheels
*relatively cheap to buy for a coupe

CONS
*massive depreciation
*according to NRMA, most expensive of sports car class to run on a weekly basis (see http://www.mynrma.com.au/releases2004_201.asp ) Based on this info. your Monaro costs $265.53 a week to run.

I'm not mega-rich but I can afford a new one. I'm not after any extras or options just the factory model (personally I believe a spoiler on a Monaro spoils a Monaro). I also add I'm a driver not a motoring enthusiast like most here. :)

Any feedback appreciated.

[VZSS250]

The monaro is a beautiful car but it has all the disadvantages of a sedan and none of the inconveniences of a coupe.

i.e. it is just as heavy and big as a sedan, whilenot giving you the convenience of four doors.

Also, the Monaro styling is now outdated, even with the new bonnet.

HOWEVER, a single bloke like me would pick one up if it were priced the same as an SS.

[RICHO]

Look I'm a Ford Fan...

But the Monaro...is without a doubt the best looking car produced in Australia in my lifetime. That's the Holden version not HSV's versions where IMO the bodykits ruin what is a beautifully shaped car. And skip the new one with the bonnet scoops again my opinion only but the ruin a beautiful shape too.

Buying 2nd hand (or even superceded) models will help avoid much of the depreciation problem and given how open to mods the LS1 is, power ups will be easily achieved. But there are better people here to give you advice on all that.

If you can find one...a CV8-R might need be a bad buy if the price is right.

[clixanup]

He's right. It is a two door Commodore.

However, it comes standard with the Calais interior (leather, dual zone climate, etc) and has the most powerful standard LS1 on offer. Basically, they are the best Holden you can buy - not counting HSVs. That is to say, they have all the premium Holden bits in the one car. All the fruit, so to speak.

Reading that article, NRMA's weekly cost estimates include depreciation and "opportunity costs" - whatever they mean by that... If you were talking servicing, rego, insurance and fuel I'm sure the figure would come to a lot less than $265. By my estimate, it would be about $95 per week (allowing for 500km per week).

[GH1967]

Pardon my ignorance but why do Monaro's depreciate so much compared to a lot of other cars?

My friend tells me the minute you drive it out the showroom there goes 8 grand.

[cev]

Maybe need to think about the theft factor involved with it too?

Would you be parking it in shopping centres, on the street at night much?

Have heard several stories of them being stolen also of some being scratched or even egged by some jealous ponies!

Late last year in Sydney, a green monaro was stolen from the airport and then was used in several smash and grab car thefts, including stealing a brand new STi from the indoor showroom of Sutherland Subaru!

My personal opinion on them, I think they are two door commodores. But then again girls love them because I believe most of this country loves a commodore but always wanted it to be a bit more sportier (ie, with the monaro now, 2 door coupe).

Good thing about the new model is that it sounds so much more beefier.

Then again, the back end is getting dated. As probably is the whole body, still based on the VX.

A used one may be the way to go aswell.

A family friend of mine bought a new yellow HSV GTO coupe in early 2004 for about 70-75K. Sold it a couple of weeks ago for somewhere in the low 40's.
:eek: Quite incredible depreciation.

[VYBerlinaV8]

Any car that has higher demand new than second hand will depreciate rapidly. That's why luxury cars like BMW and Mercedes tend to depreciate fairly rapidly. The sort of people who buy these cars like to buy them new.

What this means, however, is that a discerning buyer can get a GREAT bargain if you're prepared to buy 2nd hand, especially if not from a dealer.

[chops]

Sure they are a 2 door Commodore, but WHO CARES?

Actually, as clixanup mentioned more like a 2 door Calais.

[Dacious]

I've leased my car since May last year - got some good advice from people on this site which has proven to be pretty well on the nail.

It is much more than a 2-door Commodore IMO. General build, fit and finish is higher - and I think in the stock Comodores it is pretty good to start. The doors and bonnet open and close with the slightest force and go 'snick' against the locks. All the panels align, and the things like the splayed lower edges on the rear of the guards and doors protects the leading edge of the rearwards panels from stone chips. It thumps the suspension through bumps but the body does not creak or rattle and is very solid-feeling. Even bits like the sparewheel well and under the carpets is nicely finished.

From new I had two minor faults with parts and one trim button in the boot missing which were fixed in 5 minutes. I have no squeaks, rattles, nothing's come loose or fallen off. The paint gets exta clear coats over lesser models, at least in the SIII and on. A quick wash and it still looks new. I have no finish issues at all except one edge of the boot rubbed and chipped painted on an edge - fixed with touchup paint. The pannel fit and aerodynamic roofline with felt doorseals means non-existent wind noise except in very high crosswinds, which you hear but doesn't affect the stability.

As far as depreciation, Series 1s are just coming off warranty. They do less miles than the average 4-door, but appear to be holding more value than the 55% average for a three year old 4-door - more like 60-75%. According to Red Books and Blue Books Monaros hold value better than 350Zs and RX8s. Mine will destroy either in a straight line, and look and sound better doing it, IMO. It even gets better economy than an RX8! As far as comfort goes, neither hold a candle to it. I bet it will look new for much longer and last better, too.

They ride a little harder than an SS with 18" wheels and lower, firmer suspension but conversely point and steer better. With the short backend throttle steering is a doddle - you can pretend you're Jeremy Clarkson on Topgear if you don't mind paying for tyres. The manual clutch is firm. My shifter has a long throw but is very precise.

As an interstate cruiser, the suspension is firm on backroads which I like, the car munches freeway miles leaving you fresh as a daisy with supremely comfortable interior. Mine gets 9l/100km at 110 on cruise control. Theoretical range from 75 litres will take you from the outskirts of Melbourne to Sydney or Adelaide. I drove Deer Park to Murray Bridge and it took 68 litres.

As a sportscar, it is really a musclecar. It is a little too big and heavy for trackwork or really twisty roads, although I have to say I find it easy to point where I want and fun and challenging to drive quick on a twisty road. At higher speeds on fast sweepers, even on bad roads it is rock solid and confidence-inspiring. You feel lumps and bumps but the car doesn't budge off line.

In future years I think these will be cult cars, especially if production goes offshore. The shape still draws the eye after 4 years. I love the clean and uncluttered look.

I was tempted to think it was too much money. Now I don't, not at all. it does have some failings and weaknesses common to all Holdens (clutch could be stronger). But for a blaster which has high comfort/low noise and vibration, economical on trips, cheap to service with low parts prices, well-screwed together and with good performance, very good looks and that V8 burble and smoothness it is hard to beat.

I'd like 50hp more (pipes and edit here I come) and bigger brakes with vented rears. Koni shocks would be nice for some ride refinement, but stockers aren't bad.

Aside from all that, as someone here said to me when I asked, the best thing about it is, it's a Monaro. The worst thing about it is, it's a Monaro.

[GH1967]

I've leased my car since May last year - got some good advice from people on this site which has proven to be pretty well on the nail.

It is much more than a 2-door Commodore IMO. General build, fit and finish is higher - and I think in the stock Comodores it is pretty good to start. The doors and bonnet open and close with the slightest force and go 'snick' against the locks. All the panels align, and the things like the splayed lower edges on the rear of the guards and doors protects the leading edge of the rearwards panels from stone chips. It thumps the suspension through bumps but the body does not creak or rattle and is very solid-feeling. Even bits like the sparewheel well and under the carpets is nicely finished.

From new I had two minor faults with parts and one trim button in the boot missing which were fixed in 5 minutes. I have no squeaks, rattles, nothing's come loose or fallen off. The paint gets exta clear coats over lesser models, at least in the SIII and on. A quick wash and it still looks new. I have no finish issues at all except one edge of the boot rubbed and chipped painted on an edge - fixed with touchup paint. The pannel fit and aerodynamic roofline with felt doorseals means non-existent wind noise except in very high crosswinds, which you hear but doesn't affect the stability.

As far as depreciation, Series 1s are just coming off warranty. They do less miles than the average 4-door, but appear to be holding more value than the 55% average for a three year old 4-door - more like 60-75%. According to Red Books and Blue Books Monaros hold value better than 350Zs and RX8s. Mine will destroy either in a straight line, and look and sound better doing it, IMO. It even gets better economy than an RX8! As far as comfort goes, neither hold a candle to it. I bet it will look new for much longer and last better, too.

They ride a little harder than an SS with 18" wheels and lower, firmer suspension but conversely point and steer better. With the short backend throttle steering is a doddle - you can pretend you're Jeremy Clarkson on Topgear if you don't mind paying for tyres. The manual clutch is firm. My shifter has a long throw but is very precise.

As an interstate cruiser, the suspension is firm on backroads which I like, the car munches freeway miles leaving you fresh as a daisy with supremely comfortable interior. Mine gets 9l/100km at 110 on cruise control. Theoretical range from 75 litres will take you from the outskirts of Melbourne to Sydney or Adelaide. I drove Deer Park to Murray Bridge and it took 68 litres.

As a sportscar, it is really a musclecar. It is a little too big and heavy for trackwork or really twisty roads, although I have to say I find it easy to point where I want and fun and challenging to drive quick on a twisty road. At higher speeds on fast sweepers, even on bad roads it is rock solid and confidence-inspiring. You feel lumps and bumps but the car doesn't budge off line.

In future years I think these will be cult cars, especially if production goes offshore. The shape still draws the eye after 4 years. I love the clean and uncluttered look.

I was tempted to think it was too much money. Now I don't, not at all. it does have some failings and weaknesses common to all Holdens (clutch could be stronger). But for a blaster which has high comfort/low noise and vibration, economical on trips, cheap to service with low parts prices, well-screwed together and with good performance, very good looks and that V8 burble and smoothness it is hard to beat.

I'd like 50hp more (pipes and edit here I come) and bigger brakes with vented rears. Koni shocks would be nice for some ride refinement, but stockers aren't bad.

Aside from all that, as someone here said to me when I asked, the best thing about it is, it's a Monaro. The worst thing about it is, it's a Monaro.

Awesome! Thanks for that.

One thing Ive noticed about the new models is when you look at the brake shoes through the rims they invariably have rust on them. At least, the ones I saw at McGrath Holden and Sutton Holden in Sydney had rust on the brake shoes (I don't know if "brake shoes" is the right terminology). It had "Monaro" written on the shoe and there was rust around it.

Is this a "problem" and common amongst Monaros?

[dominik]

Look I'm a Ford Fan...

But the Monaro...is without a doubt the best looking car produced in Australia in my lifetime. That's the Holden version not HSV's versions where IMO the bodykits ruin what is a beautifully shaped car. And skip the new one with the bonnet scoops again my opinion only but the ruin a beautiful shape too.Well said. It's a classic. re: the HSV version, I like it too, but for different reasons. Monaro sans spoiler and scoops is a really clean, streamlined look... GTO with the whole lot is aggressive looking which I like in a different way.


Pardon my ignorance but why do Monaro's depreciate so much compared to a lot of other cars?

My friend tells me the minute you drive it out the showroom there goes 8 grand.Come on mate, what sports coupe doesn't?

I was always under the impression Monaros held their value quite well. Most of the used ones, from 2002 to present, are around and over the $40K mark.

If you want a coupe that wasn't based on a cheaper sedan then you'll have to shell out a lot more dough to buy that luxury (and those bragging rights)... think BMW M3, Porsche 911, Mercedes SL 55/65, etc.

As for buying a new car, any new car, you're going to lose money the second you drive it off the lot. That's a fact of life and the rapid depreciation of new cars is why leasing is such a popular option.

My next car will be a Monaro, no question about it. I want a 2-door that looks good (and it does), which I can heavily modify (LS1 fits the bill).

Check out this thread (http://www.ls1.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=33601). It sure made me envious. Over the last few months my feelings have gone from "yeah, I wouldn't mind one" to "I want one."

"In future years I think these will be cult cars, especially if production goes offshore. The shape still draws the eye after 4 years. I love the clean and uncluttered look." You summed it up well Dacious. 4 years on and it's still turning heads, mine included. You'd make a good salesman :)

[Dacious]

Awesome! Thanks for that.

One thing Ive noticed about the new models is when you look at the brake shoes through the rims they invariably have rust on them. At least, the ones I saw at McGrath Holden and Sutton Holden in Sydney had rust on the brake shoes (I don't know if "brake shoes" is the right terminology). It had "Monaro" written on the shoe and there was rust around it.

Is this a "problem" and common amongst Monaros?

What you're seeing is surface rust on the cast iron brake disc. Cast iron rusts. Nearly all cars do that - you just can't see it because it is usually covered by the wheels. As soon as you drive the car, the rust is wiped off the discs by the pads (discs look shiny), and won't reappear unless you leave the car out in the weather and not drive it for several weeks.

Here's mine, in front of some '05 GTO's bound for the US in the back of the Elizabeth plant in S.A Nov '04. You try and tell me we don't get the better looking version.....

http://www.ls1gto.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=5786

[clixanup]

You try and tell me we don't get the better looking version.....

We sure do. The two-tone GTOs in that picture look ridiculous. :lol:

[myles]

Dacious, your Monaro post was sheer poetry!

Best post I've read on a driver's experience with any car. Get yourself over to Motor magazine and start writing. :)

Thanks again.

[davidred]

I bought my Monaro 2nd hand with 6200km on the clock and 6 months old for only $50k. It's a Dec 02 plated model and from what I've seen being sold around on Carsales or the Trading post they are still asking $41-44k.

From the RRP price, its a big drop but from what I bought it for, its not too bad at all. I'd recommend finding a 2nd hand one thats only a few months old with low km's. The $250/wk running costs are a bit extreme for my liking, I'm pretty sure I don't even come close to that and I do a fair bit of running around as it's a daily driver for me.

The best things about the Monaro are;

- Appeal: People still stop and look when any Monaro goes past.
- Comfy bits: Electric everything, seats that remember their position, T/C (you'll need this), leather, etc etc.
- LS1: Forget a CV6 if your going for a 2nd hand car, you'll regret it once you realise the potential of an LS1 after an edit.
- Still a big car: I love being able to sit in it with 3 boofy mates and we are all comfortable.

The worst things about the Monaro are;

- Appeal: Some people like to scratch/dent/key/egg, etc cars that are better than what they could afford.
- Comfy bits: Damn those leather seats give you 3rd degree burns in Summer.
- LS1: You'll want an edit as soon as you realise what you can get out of the motor.
- Still a big car: For me, its hard to judge the distance from the front and the rear. I can be reversing upto a car at a millimetre at a time, being afraid of hitting the car behind me. But once I get out and see the gap, I realise I could fit another car in there.

But the best thing about the Monaro is that everytime I get in and turn the key on, I get a grin on my face and a stirring in the pants. Its a great car, goes hard and looks the goods.

Buy one, you won't regret it :)

[Bully]

We sure do. The two-tone GTOs in that picture look ridiculous. :lol:
Thats actually just plastic they put on all export models to protect in transit, they arent two toned, just to clear that up. (not trying to be a smart arse or anything mate, just letting you know)

[Bully]

Yeh, the monaro is sooooo much more than a 2 door commodore.
Individuality. Thats what comes to mind.
I drive around in my clubby & see heaps of execs dressed up with fibreglass to look like a clubby or an ss - cant make a 4 door commy look like a 2 door monaro.
And that is above all else what sets it apart in my opinion!
I love 'em!!!!!!

[clixanup]

Thats actually just plastic they put on all export models to protect in transit, they arent two toned, just to clear that up.

I know. That's why I put the :lol: at the end...

[Nobby]

The original Munros were chopped Commordores in my eyes, but the new ones are lovely.

More go, better looks, just better all round.

EDIT:
Ooh, except for the bonnet, its horrific-cheap-crap-nasty-awful-stupid looking... I'd have the dealer put a Series 1/2 bonnet back on instead.
And the HSV variant is as absurdly ugly as the rest of the range.

[dominik]

I drive around in my clubby & see heaps of execs dressed up with fibreglass to look like a clubby or an ss - cant make a 4 door commy look like a 2 door monaro.
And that is above all else what sets it apart in my opinion!
I love 'em!!!!!!Pretty smart approach from Holden. The old CV6s aside, if it's got 2 doors it's a $60K Monaro or the even more expensive HSV GTO. I say smart because aside from the minor blip with the CV6, they haven't done anything to dilute the series and muddy the waters so to speak. Just about anyone can pick one a mile away. To a lot of people who don't follow Holden/HSV, what's an S? SS? SV6? SV8? "A Commodore with a spoiler?" The Monaro is a real classic and they got it back into the market at the right time.

I'm no expert on Ford but did someone fall asleep at the wheel over there when Holden were working on this one? The Monaro has enjoyed a 4 year run with no competition in its price range... incredible :confused:

[JC074]

Some of these posts appear to be nieve.

I Own a CV8 - and let me tell you - only a person who:

a) Has never driven a CV8 or
b) Will never be able to afford one

would ever diss the new Monaro.

Trust me Ive had a number of hot cars in my time, and the new Monaro is what it is - One tuff ass Holden that deserves to wear the 'Monaro' badge on the rear quater panel without doubt.

JC

[LSX-438]

*massive depreciation

?? are you kidding

[malur8260]

Reading these owners "reviews" is far more informative than reading wheels/motor mags. Don't get me wrong I love those magazines (Motor in particular) but listening to comments on this forum of OWNERS is better because owners have a broader knowledge of what cars a like to drive everyday, wheras magazines drive them for a day or two so couldn't give as realistic judgement.
That's just my opinion.
Great reviews guys, fun to read. Now if I could just afford a LS2 HSV GTO.....

[dominik]

A family friend of mine bought a new yellow HSV GTO coupe in early 2004 for about 70-75K. Sold it a couple of weeks ago for somewhere in the low 40's.
:eek: Quite incredible depreciation.WTF? :eek: Did he do a lap of Australia or something? I haven't seen a used GTO anywhere for under $50K.

[LSX-438]

HSV's aren't the best for resale, normal monaros are rather good though. except lately with the VZ introduction, $10k discounts on series 3 are easy to come by. however do a search on carsales.com.au, older munros tend to hold their value well.

[Devil CV8]

Some of these posts appear to be nieve.

I Own a CV8 - and let me tell you - only a person who:

a) Has never driven a CV8 or
b) Will never be able to afford one

would ever diss the new Monaro.

Trust me Ive had a number of hot cars in my time, and the new Monaro is what it is - One tuff ass Holden that deserves to wear the 'Monaro' badge on the rear quater panel without doubt.

JC
so true... I still get a tear in the eye everytime I see a devil yellow CV8, and it won't take much to get me back in one.... the 7 months I had mine was pure bliss, travelling 22500km,,,all private kms, not a single business Km as I was unemployed at that time.

[FNQracing]

Ofcourse it is. We all know that. All higher spec Holdens are just tarted up base models. Same body, driveline etc etc..

I'd personally love a Monaro. I think they are the best looking local car ever produced. Nothing comes close. But would I pay $50k+ No?

Its all marketing. Make it "exclusive" and people will buy it. Please don't think I'm dissing people who do. I'm not. Just me personally would never pay for than $40k on a new locally built car. That just my personal opinion.

I'm just as happy driving a Commodore with similar looks, equal performance and handling for a fraction of the price. If it were a limited run, might be a bit different. But Holden will keep pumping out these things for as long as their are people willing to buy them.

Apart from looks, and the exclusivity of the Monaro, there is little else.

[turbo king]

Look I'm a Ford Fan...

But the Monaro...is without a doubt the best looking car produced in Australia in my lifetime. That's the Holden version not HSV's versions where IMO the bodykits ruin what is a beautifully shaped car. And skip the new one with the bonnet scoops again my opinion only but the ruin a beautiful shape too.

Buying 2nd hand (or even superceded) models will help avoid much of the depreciation problem and given how open to mods the LS1 is, power ups will be easily achieved. But there are better people here to give you advice on all that.

If you can find one...a CV8-R might need be a bad buy if the price is right.

As a Ford owner of late; but as an owner of Monaros from another century in another century I'd have to say the current Monaro is a top looker.CV8 and GTO particularly in black really hit the mark for me.GTS...paintouts kind of ruin it for me.HQ coupe was always the sexiest:HK/T/G the nastiest,almost taken on a sinister gothic look as they've aged.I think an LS2 powered GTO is a fine thing.Only criticism is rear 1'4 windows don't wind down,used to drive along the esplanade on a hot summers night in a HQ coupe full of friends with all the windows down.Those were the days
:D

[dominik]

FFO, fair call on some of those points, but it all comes down to the asking price. If the same car was coming over from Europe and was a true performance car in every respect from the drivetrain up, I'm sure they'd be selling in the $100K+ range. When it first came out I saw it as a tarted up Commodore but I've since changed my mind as I've read and experienced more. Reading a post like Dacious' makes me want one even more.

As for the current price, I guess with a monopoly they'll stay around the $60K mark new which is too much for some although when compared to the rest of Holden's range it seems right given coupes are always a little more expensive than the equivalent sedan. I argued a few months back the US is getting too good a deal on them compared to what we pay and then some guy named CorporateJet flew in and shot my argument down in flames. Guys like Dacious have also opened my eyes to certain things I missed when reviewing them in the past.

Anyway, it's hard to believe Ford has sat on their hands with this one and let Holden own the local sports coupe market with the Monaro and HSV GTO. Sure they got a shot in the arm with the Territory and XR6T but their portfolio desperately needs a locally produced coupe. And the market needs more competition from them so we all wind up getting more bang for our buck. The ball is in their court.

[FNQracing]

FFO, fair call on some of those points, but it all comes down to the asking price. If the same car was coming over from Europe and was a true performance car in every respect from the drivetrain up, I'm sure they'd be selling in the $100K+ range. When it first came out I saw it as a tarted up Commodore but I've since changed my mind as I've read and experienced more. Reading a post like Dacious' makes me want one even more.

As for the current price, I guess with a monopoly they'll stay around the $60K mark new which is too much for some although when compared to the rest of Holden's range it seems right given coupes are always a little more expensive than the equivalent sedan. I argued a few months back the US is getting too good a deal on them compared to what we pay and then some guy named CorporateJet flew in and shot my argument down in flames. Guys like Dacious have also opened my eyes to certain things I missed when reviewing them in the past.

Anyway, it's hard to believe Ford has sat on their hands with this one and let Holden own the local sports coupe market with the Monaro and HSV GTO. Sure they got a shot in the arm with the Territory and XR6T but their portfolio desperately needs a locally produced coupe. And the market needs more competition from them so we all wind up getting more bang for our buck. The ball is in their court.

I don't dispute what Dascious has to say. At all. However, I can say the same things about my Commodore. There are obviously some nice finishing touches on the Monaro, no doubt. I won't go on, as I don't want to come across as a Envious Prat (tm)...... Like I said, love the Monaros. The DNA is Commodore. Same Berlina, Calais, HSV's yada yada yada...

Its the buyer in the end who decides is they are worth it or not. And plenty have said they are in purchasing them.

European cars - Merc BMW etc are in a completely different league. Different price league too!

As for Ford, I'm not so sure the BA has the right lines to make a nice Coupe... Still too much AU DNA in there. Ford have let too many other things go as well - V8 Performance for one. However, one has to beleive they are playing a different game. Whilst Holden have been releasing some nice niche vehicles (Cross 8, Adventra, Monaro, Crewman) all of these (execpt Monaro) havent exactly been well executed, Ford have been busy concentrating on mainstream vehichles that will shift larger volumes - Turbo Falcon, BA update and Terry.

Ford have made some right royal screwups in the past decade or 2. But they havent been asleep. Not in the last 5 years anyway.

[chevypower]

of course it's a two door commodore... but then, since when was that a bad thing? Even Holden wanted to call it the Commodore Coupe?? The public and media named it the Monaro after the two-door Kingswood

[MNR-0]

...only a person who:

a) Has never driven a CV8 or
b) Will never be able to afford one

would ever diss the new Monaro
Amen.

Will the real Aussie please stand up? Please find me a better built head turning power packed V8 in good ol Aussie character in the western world.

However, I fear it will lose its identity when the Yanks start building it. I tell you what, when they do, expect our Monaro to increase in resale value the very next day.

Part of history. Part of legend. God drives one.

[The Nurse]

The feeling when behind the wheel is totally different to a commodore. I'm not sure if it's the lower roof and extra rake on the windscreen or it's all in the mind, but it just feels different. A Monaro is a totally emotional purchase, and when you drive one and see another on the road, most of the time you will get a wave or a nod from the other one's driver, and I think that says a something big about the car.

[vxcalaiszzz]

I'm not mega-rich but I can afford a new one. I'm not after any extras or options just the factory model (personally I believe a spoiler on a Monaro spoils a Monaro). I also add I'm a driver not a motoring enthusiast like most here. :)

Any feedback appreciated.


:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:



"Geez I'm getting use to this power :idea: , maybe just an edit, cat back like those blokes on the forum :burnout: .....". Leave the forum now, while you can, you still have a chance. :eek:

[Animal]

*massive depreciation

?? are you kidding

My thought's exactly.


Pardon my ignorance but why do Monaro's depreciate so much compared to a lot of other cars?

My friend tells me the minute you drive it out the showroom there goes 8 grand.

Either buy the Monaro or don't, it is a very simple answer. For someone who claims to be able to afford one your asking some very weird questions. Either your friend is a Ford fan or having a great laugh at your expense. Some of the questions that you have asked leads me to beleive you need a better quality of friends.

There are a lot of great feedback here from blokes that either have on and are in love with it, or just love them regardless. It appears that this thread is done more to provoke some of the responses that you have already received.


Part of history. Part of legend. God drives one.

That would be Brocky wouldn't it ?? :)

[MNR-0]

That would be Brocky wouldn't it ?? :)
Yuppers... :headbang:

[keen]

Your only here once mate, youll never regret buying one , but if you dont every single time you see one on the road, Youll kick yourself. Personally I wouldnt buy any new Holden (unless l had big $$$)because of the depreciation. save some dollars buy second hand .Good luck :D

[GH1967]

For someone who claims to be able to afford one your asking some very weird questions. Either your friend is a Ford fan or having a great laugh at your expense. Some of the questions that you have asked leads me to beleive you need a better quality of friends.

Gee thanks for the fortuitous advice! 10/10 for subtlety!

[VZKOOP]

Is the Monaro a glorified Commodore?

Well I am of the opinion that if my Monaro was a Commodore it is highly unlikely that people would speed up to pass me then sit beside me staring at my car on the freeway. Dads point the car out to thier kids and women regularly comment on how nice my car looks. Yes it strokes my ego but hey we all know how good it feels to have someone show appreciation for your car.

Add to that all the other comments made about the interior and the creme of holdens kit thrown in for good measure and you have what will be a future Aussie Icon that will one day be mentioned with the likes of the HK Monaro, RT Charger & Phase III Falcon. True Muscle cars with style and substance.

Breaks off into song....... "I'm in love with my car, got a feel for my automobile........" :D

[MNR-0]

I'tell you one thing. I get respect on the road from every other Holden driver. Period. Whether its an SS or HQ or V6 Berlina. When I need to change lanes in stop start traffic Im always offered courtesy. Try getting that in a WRX! :booty:

[GH1967]

Hey Monaro owners, what sort of insurance premiums and registration are you paying?

[CV8rII]

Hey Monaro owners, what sort of insurance premiums and registration are you paying?

Ì'm with RACV and have been for 6 years after being in Europe for 9.
My Pulse red cv8R is my 5th new car (2 execs, a VX SS, a VXII Clubbie and now this.....I kind of like cars) with them and on a rating 1 without an accident or claim ever (touch wood) I pay around $950 a year lump sum.
As I have finance I always have to have full comp, the whole deal.

I'm 36 tho so I guess it'll vary accordingly...
Jas.

[JC074]

im 30 - fully no claim - in Perth $897 p/a Series 1 CV* 18'oook's

Its a machine.....
Its a life style...

and if you can afford one - it will pay for itself (not monetarily) in the pure excitement of driving it.

Ive had mine 3 months - and its just an honour to drive it.

JC

[GH1967]

I will lease it through my company.

What sort of loan repayments and "balloon" payment are you guys doing (if you dont mind me asking)?

[slickholden]

Pardon my ignorance but why do Monaro's depreciate so much compared to a lot of other cars?

My friend tells me the minute you drive it out the showroom there goes 8 grand.
I think you shouldn't listen to much to your friend, It's your desicion in the end go for a test drive see if your happy if your happy it's you that's got to drive it not anyone else.
Also The monaro is based off the 4 door however it is from the mirrors to the rear new. It carrys over the same drive train but it's stiffer in body and a 2+2 copue. They have all Calais options and are very nice to ride in. they are only 60-100Kg in weight difference over the sedans.
I have seen only 1 04 SIII model new for $51,000 That was after the VZ was out. And that's the best time to shop for a new car when the next model is out and they toss in options for free and nock $5,000-$10,000 off the price :D

[NORTY8]

I absolutely love my Monaro and wouldnt drive anything else! ;)
oh except the convertible version if HOLDEN pull there finger out and produce it!!!!! - just dont call it Marilyn :(

[elisiX]

Ive said it before.. but I got a brand new Monaro SIII in October last year right when they first started discounting them for VZ stock.
I paid $54k driveaway and that included a $2k sunroof. So basically $52k da. When I was looking to buy this car a month earlier they wanted $64k driveaway with roof.

Obviously, it pays to wait or buy old stock as you can see I saved over $10k and I know depreciation wont hit me as hard as its hit some.

Im 22yo living on Nth Beaches in Sydney paying $2003p/a w/ NRMA insured for $60k. I have 65% NCB also which helps. :D

[MonaroCV8]

I get people telling me my car is just a two door commodore but I don't let it worry me. I know that the Monaro is based on the commo and there is nothing wrong with that but it still is a different car in it's own right as mentioned earlier. Although the shape has been out since 2001 I still get alot of people checking out my car. IMO the Monaro has evolved from the best looking commo (VX) ever built and that's why it still turns heads.

[clixanup]

Another point which people don't often know is that both Calais and Monaro are not assembled on the main production lines. They have their own sections of the factory, not just rolling down the line with the Execs and Berlinas.

One of the differences there is that in both the Calais and Monaro sections, there is a higher focus on quality with more inspections taking place along the way. This is why Calais and Monaro are both high quality vehicles which don't often have the same little 'niggles' you might get with an Exec, and is part of the reason that these vehicles are more expensive.

A Monaro isn't just a two-door exec with climate control and leather. There is actually a lot more to it than that.

[VooDoo]

The monaro a 2 door commodore... I think not. Next they will be saying the Caprice is just a longer Commodore. How dare they :stick:

:D

[VX11SS]

The monaro a 2 door commodore... I think not. Next they will be saying the Caprice is just a longer Commodore. How dare they :stick:

:D
Is'nt it? :)
jay

[elisiX]

Got a question..

Are there any 04 Monaro CV8 S3 left, or are they all sold?

I know there would be a few 04 Monaro VZ's.. but im curious about the S3?

[Maverick]

Saw one in the paper in Brisbane on the weekend, so you may have some luck in Sydney as well. Thats how I got mine in december.

[NORTY8]

Got a question..

Are there any 04 Monaro CV8 S3 left, or are they all sold?

I know there would be a few 04 Monaro VZ's.. but im curious about the S3?


Alan Mance in Melbourne has 2 - one auto one manual ;)

[elisiX]

Not demonstrators though, im talking NEW.

Must be able to get a bloody good deal on one now..

All the S3's on carsales are demo's with about 5000km on them

[NORTY8]

Not demonstrators though, im talking NEW.

Must be able to get a bloody good deal on one now..

All the S3's on carsales are demo's with about 5000km on them



Alan Mance states that they are unregistered/new with 10klms ;)

[Red CV8 R]

I know I couldnt find a 6 speed S3 Monaro in Sydney in any of the colours I liked so you will have to be quick!

[Crusty]

Ì'm with RACV and have been for 6 years after being in Europe for 9.
My Pulse red cv8R is my 5th new car (2 execs, a VX SS, a VXII Clubbie and now this.....I kind of like cars) with them and on a rating 1 without an accident or claim ever (touch wood) I pay around $950 a year lump sum.
As I have finance I always have to have full comp, the whole deal.

I'm 36 tho so I guess it'll vary accordingly...
Jas.

Weird.. I'm only 24 and RACV quoted me $800/year for a new monaro when I was testing the water.

[BLACK 346]

I get people telling me my car is just a two door commodore but I don't let it worry me. I know that the Monaro is based on the commo and there is nothing wrong with that but it still is a different car in it's own right as mentioned earlier. Although the shape has been out since 2001 I still get alot of people checking out my car. IMO the Monaro has evolved from the best looking commo (VX) ever built and that's why it still turns heads.

The Monaro actually evolved from the VT not VX, hence the concept
coupe being a chopped and changed VT :)

[Frankster_P]

Its a bit more than a 2 door commodore.

You can say an M3 is just a crappy 3 series with a better engine
Or a Skyline is a glorified Cedric

[BlackClubbie]

Do you reckon the Monaro VE will be a 2 door commodore VE ?

[Antonioni]

I traded a Mini cooper (great car made by BMW) on my Monaro and have also owned a Merc Benz. I don't subscribe to the theory that the Europeon cars are sooooo much better than the top of the line Australian cars. My Monaro is by far the best car I have ever owned. I was given a BMW 325 ($75,000 car) for three days by Bruce Lynton BMW when in the market for a new car and I much prefer the Monaro -thats why I bought it! As for depreciation -I got a Series III with 2000 klms on the clock (better than new really with tint) for $50,000 - don't be concerned at buying a demo or GMH company car (as mine was) with a few Klms on it. You will get a bargain and depreciation will be greatly reduced. I live about an hour and a half from most places so do heaps of country driving on second rate highways. The monaro eats the klms up, is a pleasure to drive, soooooo comfortable and powerful and in my opinion looks great. Service costs are low, petrol consumption reasonable and resale is fine provided you buy smart.
I agree with the post that said only those who have never driven one would criticise them. There is a big snob factor also with Europeon car fans who see them as 'yobbo' - I've struck this from a few of my more well heeled friends. Who cares - let them waste their money on overpriced imported cars with shitebox 4 cylinder motors and spartan interiors. Yes, I love my Monaro!! :D

[RICHO]

This is getting rediculous!!!

Next someones gonna be telling me that the ute is a 2 door Crewman!!!

[Antonioni]

I traded a Mini cooper (great car made by BMW) on my Monaro and have also owned a Merc Benz. I don't subscribe to the theory that the Europeon cars are sooooo much better than the top of the line Australian cars. My Monaro is by far the best car I have ever owned. I was given a BMW 325 ($75,000 car) for three days by Bruce Lynton BMW when in the market for a new car and I much prefer the Monaro -thats why I bought it! As for depreciation -I got a Series III with 2000 klms on the clock (better than new really with tint) for $50,000 - don't be concerned at buying a demo or GMH company car (as mine was) with a few Klms on it. You will get a bargain and depreciation will be greatly reduced. I live about an hour and a half from most places so do heaps of country driving on second rate highways. The monaro eats the klms up, is a pleasure to drive, soooooo comfortable and powerful and in my opinion looks great. Service costs are low, petrol consumption reasonable and resale is fine provided you buy smart.
I agree with the post that said only those who have never driven one would criticise them. There is a big snob factor also with Europeon car fans who see them as 'yobbo' - I've struck this from a few of my more well heeled friends. Who cares - let them waste their money on overpriced imported cars with shitebox 4 cylinder motors and spartan interiors. Yes, I love my Monaro!! :D

[Animal]

Gee thanks for the fortuitous advice! 10/10 for subtlety!

If you lead with ' a friend ' telling you this sh1t, then you post the $8,000 depreciation statement here, what do you really expect ???

Would you rather me lie to you when we know it is wrong ?

If you do have the funds to purchase one then I support the purchase 100%. I would buy one tomorrow if I did not already have one.

Does your friend have a Monaro ? did he buy it new and lose money when he sold it ? or is that statement just his professional opinion ??

The real question is are you serious about buying one Or are you just kicking tyres here ?