G.M. Holdens Ltd.
Models of 48-215: Standard Sedan / Business Sedan / Utility
Models of FJ Holden: Standard Sedan / Business Sedan / Special Sedan / Panel Van / Utility
Prime Minister Ben Chifley launched the car 'made
in Australia, for Australia' in 1948, and nobody guessed
what a runaway success this plain and practical sedan
would immediately prove to be. Australians took the
Holden straight to their hearts, commencing a love affair
that continues to this day. Demand outstripped supply
and the waiting list stretched through 1949 and beyond.
Although its official model code is 48-215, the first
Holden is widely known as the FX. Plans for its development moved into gear in 1944, when
the Federal Government asked manufacturers to submit
proposals for the production of an Australian car; a
move aimed at accelerating post-war industrial growth.
The
FJ came along after five years of producing the
48-215 (FX) and was basically the same car with a few
minor alterations to the body. Minor alterations?, tell
that to the folk of
1953 who were dazzled with the fantastic
bright work and creature comforts introduced that year! The rather boring vertical grille was replaced by an elegant
finned and detailed version, and the new chrome cone shaped
hubcaps looked the part. There were new bright metal body
decorations, 5.90 x 15 tyres, new bumpers and wonderful
new chrome fins placed on the rear mudguards.
Also see:
48/215 Holden Specifications /
FJ Holden Specifications /
Holden Car Brochures