1962 Holden EJ Special Wagon

Description

Holden's new EJ model ushered in a new era of modernity for the 1960s, replacing the upright lines of the FB/EK series with lower, wider and squared-off styling that was again a combination of American and European influences. The last vestiges of separate front and rear wings were gone, replaced by a sleek full-width grille, greater glass area and more interior space. The cabin architecture of the EJ was also new, with rubber padding on the fascia and a larger glovebox. Launched in 1962, mechanically, the EJ remained much as before, retaining the trusty 'Grey' motor with a choice of either a three-speed manual or Hydramatic automatic transmission. New twin-servo brakes were a useful new safety feature, along with mounts for seat belts for the first time, and the front suspension was beefed-up. Other useful improvements saw electrical system upgraded with a thermal circuit breaker, while the spare wheel was relocated under the boot floor to improve luggage capacity. Expanding the model range, Holden developed a more upmarket model, the Premier, that boasted items like a white steering wheel and console buttons, four-door armrests, chromed wheel trim and bonnet ornament, gold/red badges on the boot lid and front guards along with whitewall tyres. The Premier was only available as a sedan, whereas the cheaper Standard and intermediate Special lines also came in Station Wagon form and there were the usual commercials offered as well. The EJ built on the success of previous models and the 1,000,000th Holden was built during the production run, a period that also saw the opening of new plants in Elizabeth, South Australian and Fisherman's Bend in Melbourne to meet demand.