1960 FB Holden. June 2008
No Holden reflected this belief more than the very American looking FB. Mechanically, the new model was a further refinement of the FC, but the appearance was significantly changed, with an all new body fitted to the FE/FC floorpan.
The styling reflected US cars of the day with a wrap-around front windscreen, sloping rear glass, a lower bonnet line and large finned rear guards and tail light clusters.
The length was increased by 140mm (although the wheelbase remained the same) and the 'grey' engine was slightly enlarged to produce 56kW. This engine had been used since 1948 and was bored a further sixteenth of an inch, upping the compression ratio to 7.25:1.
Due to the car's increased weight, the performance increase was minimal. The FB incorporated upgraded brakes, heavier front coil springs, and clutch pedal effort was reduced by 20 percent. The rear leaf springs were wider and the electrics saw a larger capacity battery and a four brush starter motor used. The regulator was relocated high on the firewall and the battery was shielded from engine heat.
The FB was the first Holden to feature acrylic paintwork. The range included six models (the Business sedan was dropped). The basic price was actually slightly cheaper and Holden maintained its amazing 50 percent share of the Australian market.
The interior also received a makeover with a new dash fascia, instruments, shorter steering column and deeply dished steering wheel. The seats were wider with improved padding and a substantially upgraded ventilation system was employed. Provision was made for the inclusion of an optional centrally mounted heater/demister, while the radio was mounted above the glovebox with the speaker fitted horizontally at the top centre of the dash.
'Special' models received side and headlight surround chromework, while all other models were body coloured. The glass area in the FB increased 27 percent over the FC. The FB was also significant in that it was the first model for which left hand drive export versions were produced.
1960 was a significant year for Holden with the 750,000th car built, and sales topping 12,000 per month.
1960 FB Holden
January 1960 - May 1961
Engine: 2.26 litre six cylinder
Transmission: Three speed manual gearbox
Models: Standard sedan, Special sedan, Standard station wagon, Special station wagon, panel van and utility
Price when new: $2,214 (_1,107 Standard sedan)
Dimensions:
LxW: 4617 x 1703mm
Wheelbase: 2667mm (105")
Front/rear track: 54.5"
Turning circle: 36.5 feet
Identification: New body panels with integral fins on rear guards; lower profile front grille with turn indicators on each side; the word "Holden" written across front centre of bonnet.
Total Number built: 174,747
