1963 EH Holden. September 2008

Today, the EH Holden is still regarded as one of the best model Holdens ever produced. It certainly was embraced by the public, becoming the fastest selling Australian car ever (250,000 in 18 months).

Personally I have fond memories of the EH, as it was the car that I went for my license in, just days after turning 18. While perhaps not recommended, I can also vouch for the fact that the 179 powered EH could reach a genuine 100 mph.

The thing that many liked about the EH was its styling. It was the eighth Holden model since 1948, and although based on the EJ, it incorporated a new look roofline and clever 'boxy' styling, which improved its appearance from all angles. There were restyled vertical tail lights, squared off boot and new rear screen.

Big news for the EH was the introduction of two new engines. It was powered by two versions of a completely new "red" engine, the 149 and 179. With 7-bearing crankshafts, hydraulic valve lifters, external oil pump and new piston and head design, they delivered 33 percent and 53 per- cent more power respectively and improved fuel economy.
The 179 engine developed 86kW of power and was initially available only with automatic transmission, except for the S4 model. The high performance S4 was a 225 (Special Sedan) equipped with an upgraded three-speed gearbox, stronger clutch, larger tailshaft and iron differential casing. Only 120 S4s were produced and several were entered in the Bathurst classic in 1963. They were placed 2nd outright as well as 5th, 6th, 7th and 9th in class.

The EH was available in 8 variants, including sedan, wagon, panel van and utility. All models were released simultaneously in August 1963. They offered unbeatable value for money at the same price as the EJ and cheaper than mid-50s Holdens.

In brief: EH Holden
Engines: 2.45-litre six cylinder '149' and 2.95-litre six cylinder '179'.
Transmissions: Three-speed manual gearbox and three-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission.
Models: Standard Sedan, Special Sedan, S4 Special Sedan, Premier Sedan, Standard station wagon, Special station wagon, Premier station wagon, panel van and utility.
Dimensions (Basic sedan): Length 4511mm; wheelbase 2667mm, width 1727mm.
Identification: Similar body to EJ but with squarer rear guards and roofline; grille split in centre by vertical bar bearing Holden badge. Round fuel cap and vertical tail lights.
Base price when new: _1,051 ($2,102).
Total built: 256,959.