Holden V2 CV8-R Monaro

Released in July, 2003, the CV8-R was a limited edition run of only 350 special edition V2 Monaro's based on the Series II CV8. Reminiscent of Henry Fords Model T, you could choose any color CV8-R, as long as it was Turbine Mica Grey.

Featuring a light shale leather interior combined with a unique instrument cluster with white dials, leather-wrapped steering wheel, handbrake and transmission selector, the CV8-R wore distinctive 18 inch 5 spoke alloy wheels, while the front and rear lamps featured silver finish globes. Other additions included Holden Assist and bright chrome exterior badges.

With the Series III Monaro came a limited edition CV8-R  of only 320. Released in May 2004, the CV8-R was only available in a Pulse Red paint finish. It offered a choice of manual or automatic transmission, matched to a 245kW V8.

The 18-inch, five-spoke machined face alloy wheels with sports graphite ports instantly made gave the Monaro a more aggressive look, while the now familiar front and rear lamp treatment provided a distinctive look to the car.

A “Holden By Design” electric sunroof was included as standard, while the interior features included centre fascia and instrument surrounds in satin finish, “Pulse Red” and black floor-mats with CV8-R logo, a unique instrument cluster with white dial-plate daytime illumination, and dead cow coverings for the steering wheel, handbrake and transmission selectors (matching anthracite leather was used for the sports seats and door trims, with perforated leather inserts and black stitching).

Any classic car collector will tell you the rarer the car, the more quickly it will appreciate. It may be a few years off, but if you are looking at purchasing a second hand Monaro, the CV8-R would be an astute investment.