Holden EH

Send This Page To A Friend
Holden

Holden EH

1963 - 1965
Country:
Australia
Engine:
6 cyl.
Capacity:
2262 cc
Power:
95-120 bhp
Transmission:
3 spd. man 2 spd. hydramatic
Top Speed:
82 mph
Number Built:
256,959
Collectability:
3 star
1963 was a watershed for Holden, releasing what many people today still consider to be their greatest achievement, the eighth model "EH".

The new model offered an impressive combination of style, power, refinement, ruggedness and value for money. Launched in August, it entered direct competition with the recently released Ford Falcon.

An immediate success, more than 250,000 were sold in the first 18 months of its release, making it the fastest selling Australian car - ever.

A far more substantial facelift of the EJ than those that had been attempted before, the "EH" featured a far more commanding look with a revised roofline and clever styling which, to most eyes, improved its looks from every angle.

And the improvements were not limited to the exterior of the car. The biggest news with the new model was in the introduction of the new "Red" motor that used an oversquare design with a seven bearing crankshaft.

These were the first Holden motors to use hydraulic valve lifters, and they featured the use of an external oil pump and oil filter that made servicing a dream.

So popular was the "Red" motor that it remained in service until 1985, during which time it had been continually improved and was now a 3.3 liter with fuel injection, 12 port head and counterbalanced crank.

The vast majority of EH Holdens built were "Specials", however a "Standard" model was available for the fleet and taxi markets. A limited edition sports version, the "S4", was made although only in the order of 120 were actually produced.

The S4 featured upgraded brakes, cylinder head modifications, semi-blueprinted engine parts, a toughened clutch and tailsharft and a larger fuel tank.

No doubt aspiring for success at Bathurst, the EH-S4 was beaten by the GT Cortina - but at least Holden's interest in racing was developing. The EH these days is still a very sort after and a popular car at automotive events all over Australia and New Zealand. It is without doubt one of the most collectable Holdens.

Visitor Rating:


Also see:


Holden EH Specifications
Holden Grey Motor
Holden History
Early Holden Advertising
Holden Car Commercials
Nasco Holden Accessories Commercials
back
Unique Cars and Parts USA - The Ultimate Classic Car Resource
next