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2014 Shannons Sydney Winter Classic Auction
Lot
13

1953 Holden '48-215' FX Utility

$35,500

Sold

Specifications

Engine In line 6-cylinder, 138cid
Gearbox 3-Speed Manual
Body Work Utility
Colour Green
Interior Brown
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Steel disc
Brakes Drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

Otherwise known as the FX, the original Holden 48-215 rolled off the production line on November 29, 1948 and went on to become Australia's first mass-produced car. Featuring the latest unitary construction technique, the Holden was a mixture of American and European styling influences combined to give a uniquely Australian character. Inside, the front and rear bench seats provided ample space for six passengers and the car was remarkably comfortable to drive, even on our primitive roads of the time. Powered by the 'Stovebolt' six-cylinder OHV engine, dubbed the 'grey' motor, this tough unit developed 60 horsepower at 3800 rpm - enough to deliver lively performance. The gearbox was a three-speed affair, with a column change. The Holden proved immensely popular with the Australian public and reached the coveted Number One spot in the passenger car market by 1950. The original 48-215 Sedan was subsequently joined by the Business Sedan and Utility variants, the latter arriving in 1951 and finding a ready market with farmers and tradesman. By the time production ceased in September 1953, more than 120,000 48-215s had been produced and the FX Holden holds a special place in the motoring history of this country, its popularity with collectors into the future assured.