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Features

Holden Model Specifications: a Brief History

Holden 48-215

Adapted from a US design, the first Holden made automotive history, gaining GMH market leadership by 1951. Unofficially known as the "FX" the 48/215 was one of the first new cars to be built anywhere in the world following the Second World War, and boasted ‘Aerobilt’ body construction, a relatively new engineering principle that combined body and chassis into one all-steel unit, increasing rigidity and reducing weight.

With a top speed of over 80 mph (130 km/h), it could cruise all day at 65 mph (105 km/h), and it took steep hills in its top-gear stride.

See our Feature Article: The Holden (FX) 48/215

Holden 48/215 Specifications

Holden FJ

Powerful, rugged and great value for money, the FJ was essentially a face-lifted version of the 48-215. Known as the 'New Look' Holden, the second series of “Australia's Own Car” sold in unprecedented numbers and offered an equally unprecedented degree of mobility, freedom and privacy.

By 1954, FJ Holdens were being produced at assembly plants nationwide at the rate of 250 per day and export shipments to New Zealand had commenced. FJ utilities and panel vans remained in production until early 1957, when production of their FE counterparts began.

See our Feature Article: The Holden FJ

Holden FJ Specifications

Holden FE

The FE series introduced a more modern, Australian-designed body which was bigger and roomier, with a longer wheelbase and wider track. Many new exterior colour schemes were available and a new dashboard helped modernise the interior. Sales figures went from strength to strength, and in 1957 the first Station Sedan (Station Wagon) was introduced.

FE improvements included a one piece curved windscreen and a larger rear window which together contributed towards a 40 percent improvement in visibility. Mechanical improvements included a hydraulically operated clutch and a slightly more powerful (53kW) version of the well-proven "Grey" engine.

See our Feature Article: The Holden FE

Holden FE Specifications

Holden FC

The FC replaced the FE at the time when Holden market value share hit an incredible 50.3% in 1958.

Holden had already established the practice of introducing a model, then following with an improved version. The FC continued this practice, and exterior changes were made to the grille and body decorations. Beneath the skin was a redesigned interior and several mechanical improvements.

Before FC production had ceased, the 500,000th Holden had been produced and the 10,000th exported.

See our Feature Article: The Holden FC

Holden FC Specifications

Holden FB

The FB was a mechanical improvement on its predecesor, and introduced rear fins and wrap around front and rear windscreens, and a new lower bonnet line (borrowing cosmetically from popular designs coming from The United States in the 50's).

The FB was the first Holden car released with acrylic paint work (Known as Magic Mirror), The range included six fantastic models; (the business sedan was dropped from the line up).

Holden's amazing 50% market share of the Australian market was maintained.

See our Feature Article: The Holden FB

Holden FB Specifications

Holden EK

The FB was facelifted and revised as the 'EK', with the major change being the introduction of the new optional three-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission.

The Hydramatic was a fully imported unit used in several GM vehicles overseas, that allowed the auto Holden to maintain respectable performance figures. EK refinements included revised interior trim, an electric wiper motor (replacing the old vacuum unit) and a new fresh-air heating unit.

At this time Holden was using 4000 suppliers across Australia and operating 10 plants. The EK stayed in production for just over a year.

See our Feature Article: The Holden EK

Holden EK Specifications

Holden EJ

Introducing the "Low-Line" restyled body look, the EJ continued the traditional Holden virtues of ruggedness, high ground clearance and good interior room. Holden's previous drive train was carried over on all models and mechanical improvements included new Duo Servo Brakes, strengthened front suspension and an improved Hydramatic transmission.

The EJ series introduced the famous "Premier" (the luxury model), and was also the first Holden to feature safety belt (Seat Belt) anchorages. The production run included the manufacture of the 1 millionth Holden.

See our Feature Article: The Holden EJ

Holden EJ Specifications

Holden EH

Based on the popular EJ, the EH incorporated "Power Swept" styling giving the car a longer look at the rear, with neater more modern lines and a larger boot. The EH had a completely new six-cylinder engine, available in two capacities, and a price which made the car easily the best value on the market.

Despite its new features, the base EH was the same price as its predecessor and cheaper than the Holden's of the mid-1950s. In a period of 18 months more than 250,000 EH's were sold, making it the fastest selling Australian car ever.

See our Feature Article: The Holden EH

Holden EH Specifications

Feature articles will be added regularly... we are currently working on the F series of vehicles.

The following section dealing with later Holden models will be updated shortly.

Holden HD

Year of Introduction: 1965
Engine: 2.45 litre (149ci) 6 cylinder & 2.95 litre (179ci) 6 cylinder & 2.95 litre X2 6 cylinder
Power: 105kW (X2)
Transmission: 3 speed manual & 2 speed Powerglide automatic
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 13.2 seconds (X2); Standing 400 metres 19.2 seconds (X2)
Production: 178,927
Price: $2,320

Holden HR

Year of Introduction: 1966
Engine: 2.65 litre (161ci) 6 cylinder & 3.05 litre (186ci) 6 cylinder & 3.05 X2 6 cylinder
Power: 95kW (186)
Transmission: 3 & 4 speed manual & 2 speed Powerglide
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 15.3 seconds (186 auto); Standing 400 metres 19.5 seconds (186 auto)
Production: 252,352
Price: $2,167

Holden HK

Year of Introduction: 1968
Engine: 2.65 litre (161ci) 6 cylinder ; 3.05 litre (186ci) 6 cylinder ; 3.05 litre 6 cylinder (186S) ;5.0 litre V8 (307) & 5.3 litre V8 (327)
Power: 95kW (186) & 188kW (327)
Transmission: 3 speed manual ; 4 speed manual & 2 speed Powerglide
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 15.2 seconds (186) 8.2 seconds (327); Standing 400 metres 19.6 seconds (186) 16.0 seconds (327)
Production: 199,039
Price: $2,215

Holden HT

Year of Introduction: 1969
Engine: 2.65 litre (161ci) 6 cylinder ; 3.05 litre (186ci) 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 (253) ;5.0 litre V8 (307) ; 5.0 litre V8 (308) & 5.74 litre V8 (350)
Power: 95kW (186) & 188kW (327)
Transmission: 3 speed manual ; 4 speed manual & 2 speed Powerglide
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 10.1 seconds (253) 7.7 seconds (350); Standing 400 metres 17.2 seconds (253) 15.9 seconds (350)
Production: 183,402

Holden HG

Year of Introduction: 1970
Engine: 2.65 litre (161ci) 6 cylinder ; 3.05 litre (186ci) 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 (253);5.0 litre V8 (307) & 5.74 litre V8 (350)
Power: 97kW (186) & 225kW (350)
Transmission: 3 speed manual ; 4 speed manual ; 2 speed Powerglide & 3 speed Trimatic
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 12.8 seconds (186) 8.0 seconds (350); Standing 400 metres 18.9 seconds (186) 16.1 seconds (350)
Production: 155,787

Holden Torana GTR-X Coupe

Year of Introduction: Never (initially planned for 1970)
Engine: 186 ci 160hp @5,200rpm 3 Stromberg 150 CDS horizontal carburettors
Transmission: 4 speed manual
Performance: Maximum speed 118mph (190 km/h)
2 seater coupe based on Torana GTR XU-1
On display in the new Holden headquarters at Fisherman's Bend.
 

Holden HQ

Year of Introduction: 1971
Engine: 2.84 litre (173ci) 6 cylinder ; 3.3 litre (202ci) 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 (253);5.0 litre V8 (308) & 5.74 litre V8 (350)
Power: 101kW (202) & 206kW (350)
Transmission: 3 speed manual ; 4 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic & 3 speed Turbohydramatic 400 (350 only)
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 13.1 seconds (202) 9.3 seconds (350 auto); Standing 400 metres 19.6 seconds (202) 15.3 seconds (350 auto)
Production: 485,650
Price: $2,730

Holden HJ

Year of Introduction: 1974
Engine: 2.84 litre (173ci) 6 cylinder ; 3.3 litre (202ci) 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 (253) & 5.0 litre V8 (308)
Power: 101kW (202) & 179kW (308)
Transmission: 3 speed manual ; 4 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic & 3 speed Turbohydramatic 400 (308 only)
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 13.1 seconds (202) 10.5 seconds (308); Standing 400 metres 19.4 seconds (202) 18.1 seconds (308)
Production: 167,251

Holden HX

Year of Introduction: 1976
Engine: 2.84 litre (173ci) 6 cylinder ; 3.3 litre (202ci) 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 (253) & 5.0 litre V8 (308)
Power: 82kW (202) & 180kW (308)
Transmission: 3 speed manual ; 4 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic & 3 speed Turbohydramatic 400
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 16.4 seconds (202) 10.2 seconds (308); Standing 400 metres 19.4 seconds (202)
Production: 110,669

Holden HZ

Year of Introduction: 1977
Engine: 3.3 litre (202ci) 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 (253) & 5.0 litre V8 (308)
Power: 81kW (202) & 161kW (308)
Transmission: 3 speed manual ; 4 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic & 3 speed Turbohydramatic 350
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 19.3 seconds (202) 11.9 seconds (308); Standing 400 metres 19.6 seconds (202) 16.8 seconds (308)
Production: 154,155
Price: $6,377

Holden Commodore VB

Year of Introduction: Oct 1978
Engine: 2.85 litre 6 cylinder ; 3.3 litre 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 & 5.0 litre V8
Transmission: 4 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic & 3 speed Turbohydramatic 350/400
Production: 95,906
Price: $6,513
Wheels Car Of The Year 1979

Holden Commodore VC

Year of Introduction: Mar 1980
Engine: 1.9 litre 4 cylinder ; 2.85 litre 6 cylinder ; 3.3 litre 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 & 5.0 litre V8
Transmission: 4 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic & 3 speed Turbohydramatic 350
Production: 121,807
First 'Brock' Commodore released October 1980

Holden Commodore VH

Year of Introduction: Sep 1981
Engine: 2.85 litre 6 cylinder ; 3.3 litre 6 cylinder ; 4.2 litre V8 & 5.0 litre V8
Transmission: 4 speed manual ; 5 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic & 3 speed Turbohydramatic 350/400
Production: 141,018

Holden Commodore VK

Year of Introduction: Feb 1984
Engine: 3.3 litre 6 cylinder ; 3.3 litre EFI 6 cylinder & 5.0 litre V8
Transmission: 4 speed manual ; 5 speed manual & 3 speed Trimatic
Production: 135,705
Price: $11,152

Holden Commodore VL

Year of Introduction: Mar 1986
Engine: 3.0 litre 6 cylinder ; 3.0 litre turbo-charged 6 cylinder & 4.9 litre V8
Transmission: 5 speed manual ; 3 speed Trimatic (V8) & 4 speed automatic(6 cylinder)
Production: 151,801
Price: $13,830

Holden Commodore VN

Year of Introduction: Aug 1988
Engine: 3.8 litre EFI V6 ; 5.0 V8 EFI
Power: 125kW (V6) & 165kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed manual ; 4 speed Turbohydramatic ; 6 speed ZF manual (Group A)
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 8.1 seconds (V6) 7.2 seconds (V8); Standing 400 metres 15.7 seconds (V6) 15.1 seconds (V8)
Production: 215,180
Price: $20,014
Wheels Car Of The Year 1989

Holden Commodore VP

Year of Introduction: Sep 1991
Engine: 3.8 litre EFI V6 ; 5.0 V8 EFI
Power: 127kW (V6) & 165kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed manual & 4 speed Turbohydramatic 700
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 8.0 seconds (V6) 7.2 seconds (V8); Standing 400 metres 15.5 seconds (V6) 15.1 seconds (V8)
Production: 111,949

Holden Commodore VR

Year of Introduction: Jul 1993
Engine: 3.8 litre EFI V6 ; 5.0 V8 EFI
Power: 130kW (V6) & 165kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed manual & 4 speed Turbohydramatic
Production: 165,262
Price: $25,302

Holden Commodore VS

Year of Introduction: Apr 1995
Engine: 3.8 litre EFI V6 ; 5.0 V8 EFI
Power: 145kW (V6) & 165kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed manual & 4 speed Turbohydramatic
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 8.9 seconds (V6) ; Standing 400 metres 16.3 seconds (V6)
Production: 277,774
Price: $26,780

Holden Commodore VT

Year of Introduction: Aug 1997
Engine: 3.8 litre ECOTEC EFI V6 ; 3.8 litre Supercharged V6 & 5.0 V8 EFI
Power: 147kW (V6) ; 171kW (Supercharged) & 179kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed Getrag manual & 4 speed Turbohydramatic
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 9.1 seconds (V6) ; Standing 400 metres 16.3 seconds (V6)
Production: 303,895
Price: $28,330 inc. GST
Wheels Car Of The Year 1998

Holden Commodore VX

Year of Introduction: Sep 2000
Engine: 3.8 litre ECOTEC EFI V6 ; 3.8 litre Supercharged V6 & 5.7 V8 EFI
Power: 152kW (V6) ; 171kW (Supercharged) & 225kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed Getrag manual & 4 speed Turbohydramatic
6 speed manual on SS sedan
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 9.0 seconds (V6) ; Standing 400 metres 16.1 seconds (V6)
Production: 207,339
Price: $28,900

Holden Commodore VY 

Year of Introduction: Oct 2002
Engine: 3.8 litre ECOTEC EFI V6 ; 3.8 litre Supercharged V6 & 5.7 V8 EFI
Power: 152kW (V6) ; 171kW (Supercharged) & 235kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed Getrag manual & 4 speed Turbohydramatic
6 speed manual on SS sedan & ute
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 9.0 seconds (V6) ; Standing 400 metres 16.1 seconds (V6)
Production: 241,909
Price: $30,880
In the entire GM empire, only Holden now builds large rear-drive cars.

Holden Commodore VZ 

Year of Introduction: Aug 2004
Engine: 3.6 litre Alloytec EFI V6 ; 5.7 V8 EFI and from 2006 production 6.0 Gen 4 V8 EFI
Power: 175kW (V6) ; 190kW (High Output) & 260kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed manual & 4 speed or 5 speed auto
6 speed manual on SS sedan & ute
Performance: 0 - 100 km/h 8.3 seconds (SV6) ; Standing 400 metres 16.2 seconds (SV6)
0 - 100 km/h 5.82 seconds (SS) ; Standing 400 metres 13.99 seconds (SS)
Production: 228,788
Price: $36,240 - 2006 Executive sedan with air cond.

Holden Commodore VE 

Year of Introduction: Jul 2006
Engine: 3.6 litre Alloytec EFI V6 ; 6.0 litre GEN IV V8 EFI
Power: 180kW (V6) ; 195kW (High Output) & 270kW (V8)
Transmission: 5 speed manual on SV6, 6 speed manual on SS,  4 speed auto on Omega, 5 speed auto on SV6 and Calais V6 engines, and 6 speed auto with GEN IV
Performance: not yet measured
Production: Commenced July 2006
Price: $36,490 - 2006 Omega sedan with air cond.

Feature articles coming shortly

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