G.M. Holdens Ltd.
Models of FB Holden: Standard Sedan / Special Sedan / Standard Wagon / Special Wagon / Utility / Panel Van.
Models of EK Holden: Standard Sedan / Special Sedan / Standard Wagon / Special Wagon / Utility / Panel Van.
Released in January
1960, just two weeks before the
arrival of
Ford's XK Falcon, the
FB Holden directly reflected
the changing taste and style of the 60's. Immediately evident was the incorporation of real "fins"
to the design rather than simple chrome additions to
the rear guards as seen on the
FJ and
FC. The design
was 140mm longer than the previous model, and suffered
a resultant power to weight ratio disadvantage with
the outgoing
FC.
To cope with the extra weight, Holden used heavier rated
coils in the front suspension, widened the rear leaf springs
and upgraded the brakes.
As was the case with the previous
2 body shapes, the
FB Holden was facelifted in
1961 and released as the "
EK". The list of refinements included revised interior trim,
new exterior badges and mouldings (the rear-side colour
flash of the
FC and
FB was deleted), a new fresh-air/heating
unit, a new ventilation air intake located forward
of the windscreen and a new grille with eight vertical
bars instead of six. Parking lights were incorporated
into the top grille bar. At last the old "vacuum" wipers were replaced
with electrically operated units, which were indeed far
superior if not far safer! Most noteable was the availability
of a new "Hydramatic" 3 speed automatic transmission.
Also see:
FB Holden Specifications /
EK Holden Specifications /
Holden Car Brochures