1958 Holden FE Special Sedan

Description

Although still selling strongly, the original Holden design was looking a little dated by the mid-Fifties and General Motors took the opportunity to release a completely restyled model, designated the FE, in July 1956. With integrated rear wings and a curved one-piece windscreen, the Holden took on a modern appearance, more in keeping with contemporary Chevrolets. The engine produced more power, steering was improved with the adoption of a sealed recirculating-ball system, there were better brakes and 12-volt electrics for the first time, with key-operated starter. Inside, a new dash with built-in speaker grille, lockable glove box and redesigned instrument cluster was the big news but a host of minor changes, such as pendant-style clutch and brake pedals, made the FE more pleasant to drive. Holden raised the compression ratio on the grey motor to 6.8:1, added bigger valves and stronger pistons to increase power and improve performance, while smaller 13-inch wheels gave better roadholding. The FE proved as popular as its FX/FJ predecessors, selling more than 150,000 units in just under two years of production and saw the introduction of a new Station Sedan (wagon) variant, while the commercials (ute and panel van) remained very popular with tradesmen.