Base sedan models started at approximately $2,100–$2,200. Pre-decimal currency was not introduced in Australia until 1966, so a new FB Holden would have been bought in Pounds as opposed to Dollars.
The FB featured sleeker styling, improved interior comfort, updated suspension, and minor mechanical refinements over the FC
The FB Holden looked quite different to the previous model FC Holden. The FB Holden was seen to be more frivolous than many of the previous Holden models which had been released shortly after World War II.
It remained a practical, reliable family car, reflecting the tastes and needs of suburban Australia.
Nowadays it is one of the lesser known early Holden models, though still highly collectible.
FB Holden
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Average wage
Average weekly wage: about $22–$24
Average annual wage: roughly $1,144–$1,248
Average house price
Around $5,000–$5,500
Price of petrol
About 5 cents per litre
Prime Minister
Robert Menzies (Liberal Party)
Population of Australia
About 10.2 million people
Top-grossing movie
Spartacus, Psycho
Top song
It’s Now or Never by Elvis Presley topped Australian charts
Significant world event
The early 1960s marked the start of space exploration excitement (e.g., Yuri Gagarin and John Glenn preparations)
Post-war industrial growth and suburbanisation continued in Australia
Popular TV / radio in Australia
Television was still new but growing, with shows like Bandstand and local news gaining traction
Radio remained central for music, news, and entertainment
Significant Australian news story
Suburban expansion and rising car ownership dominated headlines
The FB Holden reflected modern Australian family life, offering style, comfort, and reliability at an affordable price
Interesting comparisons
The FB Holden cost roughly 1 year’s average wage, keeping it affordable for many families
The average house cost about 4–4.5 years’ wages
Filling a ~40L tank cost about $2
A week’s wages could buy roughly 440–450 litres of petrol
