1963 Holden EJ Special Sedan

Description

The EJ Holden, announced in July 1962, ushered in a new era of modernity for Australia’s Own Car. Gone were the boxy upright lines of its FB/EK series predecessors in favour of a lower, sleeker Chevrolet-inspired streamline. The last vestiges of separate front and rear wings were gone, replaced by a 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. Mechanically, the EJ remained much as before, retaining the trusty ‘grey’ motor with a choice of either three-speed manual or Hydra-matic automatic transmission. Twin-servo brakes were a useful new safety feature, along with seat belt mounts and stronger front suspension. The boot was larger and the spare wheel better located. Expanding the model range, Holden developed a more luxurious Premier variant with leather upholstery, front bucket seats, Mercedes-like white steering wheel, heater, centre console, armrests, chromed wheel trims and bonnet ornament, gold/red badges on the boot lid and front guards along with whitewall tyres: it was the height of fashion for 1962! The EJ built on the success of previous models and the 1,000,000th Holden – a Euroa Gold Premier – seemed a fitting milestone achieved during its production run.