Base sedan models started at approximately £1,300–£1,350 (≈ $2,600–$2,700 AUD equivalent)
The FC Holden would be the 4th Holden model released in 10 years.
The FC featured subtle styling changes over the FE, improved brakes, more robust suspension, and refinements to interior comfort.
It was a practical, reliable family car, continuing Holden’s dominance in the Australian market.
It was a mechanically simple car with only 1 engine (Grey inline 6) and one transmission (3 speed manual) option available. Options list was relatively small with a few mainly practical options as opposed to luxury items.
At the time the FC was on sale there was no competition from Ford or from Chrysler.
FC Holden
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Average wage
Average weekly wage: about £18–£20 (≈ $36–$40 AUD)
Average annual wage: roughly £936–£1,040 (≈ $1,872–$2,080 AUD)
Average house price
Around £3,500–£4,000 (≈ $7,000–$8,000 AUD)
Price of petrol
About 4d per gallon (≈ $0.08 AUD per litre equivalent)
Prime Minister
Robert Menzies (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
About 9.5 million people
Top-grossing movie
South Pacific, Gigi
Top song
Volare by Domenico Modugno topped Australian charts
Significant world event
NASA was founded in 1958, marking the start of the Space Race
Post-war industrialisation and suburban growth continued in Australia
Popular TV / radio in Australia
Television was expanding in Melbourne and Sydney, with ABC and commercial stations broadcasting news, sports, and entertainment
Radio remained essential in regional areas
Significant Australian news story
Australia experienced suburban expansion and consumer growth
Holden FC’s release reflected the continued evolution of locally-designed, practical family vehicles
Interesting comparisons
The FC Holden cost roughly 1.4–1.5 years’ average wages, similar to the FE but with refinements
The average house cost about 3.5–4 years’ wages
Filling the ~40L tank cost less than $4
A week’s wages could buy roughly 500–520 litres of petrol
