1961 Holden EK Special Sedan

Description

Holden's third generation FB/EK/EJ range was initially launched in 1960, the styling very much in keeping with contemporary American trends, incorporating a wraparound windscreen and even rear fins - albeit ones far more restrained than those found on GM's US models. The new Holden put on weight, so the trusty 'Grey' motor came in for some work, being bored out by 1/16th of an inch to raise the total cubic capacity to 138-cid, while the compression ratio was also lifted to 7.25:1, resulting in a total output of 75 horsepower. The brakes and clutch were also improved. In May 1961, the FB gave way to the EK, whose major significance was the introduction of Australia's first automatic transmission - the fully imported three-speed Hydramatic column shift - which proved a popular, if expensive, option. Minor changes included a wider grille with the turn indicators at either end plus electric wipers instead of the older vacuum-operated type. The model range included the usual Standard or Special sedans and wagons plus the two commercials, the utility and panel van. A total of 150,214 EK Holdens were built before the model was superseded by the EJ series in July 1962.