Australia’s First Fully Modern 1960s Holden
The EJ Holden represented the refinement of early-1960s Holden models, offering improved styling, comfort, and drivability over the EK. By 1963, Holden introduced the EH Holden, marking the brand’s first fully modern 1960s design with a new engine, updated styling, and significantly enhanced driving experience.
The EH Holden was a major leap forward, introducing Holden’s new “Red” six-cylinder engine, sleeker styling, and improved interior comfort. It became an instant icon in Australia, offering a more modern, powerful, and enjoyable driving experience than the EJ.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
EJ Holden:
- Early-1960s styling with subtle tail fins and chrome trim
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants
- Rounded roofline, practical proportions
- Premier and Special trims offered extra chrome
EH Holden:
- Fully modern 1960s styling, smoother lines, and more aerodynamic profile
- New front grille and larger, modernized tail fins
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants continued
- Chrome trim and detailing refined, Premier and Special trims more stylish
The EH looked sleeker, more modern, and confident than the EJ, signaling Holden’s move into mid-1960s automotive design.
Interior Design
EJ Holden:
- Functional dashboard with simple gauges
- Bench seating for up to six
- Basic interior materials with modest comfort
EH Holden:
- Completely redesigned dashboard with improved instrumentation
- New interior materials and trim for better comfort
- Deluxe and Special trims included upgraded upholstery, door trims, and finishes
- Improved seating support and cabin ergonomics
The EH interior offered a more modern and comfortable experience, making it suitable for longer drives and everyday use.
Platform and Engineering Changes
Chassis and Suspension:
- EJ: Ladder-frame chassis, coil-spring front, leaf-spring rear
- EH: Refined chassis and suspension for smoother ride, improved handling
- Steering more responsive, body roll minimized
Brakes and Safety:
- Both had drum brakes front and rear
- Optional seatbelts, EH slightly improved ride stability and handling
The EH provided a noticeably better driving experience than the EJ, especially on longer journeys and rural roads.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
EJ Holden Engines:
- 132 cu in “Grey” six-cylinder engine
- Three-speed manual or optional column shift
- Rear-wheel drive
EH Holden Engines:
- Introduction of 149 cu in and 179 cu in “Red” six-cylinder engines
- More power and smoother performance than EJ’s “Grey” engine
- Three-speed manual, optional column shift, and improved gearbox
- Rear-wheel drive retained
Performance Comparison:
- EJ: Reliable but modest in power
- EH: More powerful, smoother, and responsive; better acceleration and drivability
- EH clearly outperformed the EJ, making it more enjoyable to drive
Model Range Comparison
EJ Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Deluxe and Special trims
EH Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Deluxe and Special trims enhanced with better interior finishes
- Engine options expanded, offering more power and performance choices
The EH maintained versatility while giving buyers more power, comfort, and modern styling.
Technology and Features
EJ:
- Basic instrumentation, optional heater, and radio
- Focused on reliability and practicality
EH:
- Redesigned dashboard with improved gauge layout
- Optional heater, radio, and upgraded interior trim
- New engine improved smoothness and reliability
- Better seat support and ergonomics
The EH offered meaningful improvements in comfort, convenience, and driving experience.
Driving Experience
EJ Holden:
- Smooth and practical
- Adequate handling and comfort for its era
- Modest acceleration and ride quality
EH Holden:
- More powerful and responsive engine
- Smoother suspension and improved ride comfort
- Refined steering and handling
- Cabin more comfortable for driver and passengers
The EH was a significant step forward, providing a more modern, powerful, and enjoyable driving experience than the EJ.
Reliability and Common Problems
EJ:
- Mechanically reliable with minor wear
- Easy to maintain with available parts
EH:
- Reliable “Red” six-cylinder engine
- Minor suspension and trim refinements improved long-term durability
- Interior trim and comfort upgrades enhanced longevity
Both are dependable, but EH offered better performance and comfort for longer-term ownership.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- EJ: Collectible for early-1960s Holden enthusiasts
- EH: Highly desirable, particularly in Deluxe and Special trims
Parts Availability:
- Limited for both, EH parts more widely available due to higher popularity
Running Costs:
- Both economical; EH benefits from more powerful engine and refined drivability
Collector and Enthusiast Value
EJ Holden:
- Transitional early-1960s model, appreciated for historical significance
- Popular with collectors seeking nostalgia
EH Holden:
- Iconic mid-1960s Holden
- Sought after for styling, comfort, and the introduction of the “Red” engine
- Highly collectible in restored or original condition
Choose EJ if:
- You want an early-1960s Holden with historical significance
- You value simplicity and nostalgia
Choose EH if:
- You want a modern, powerful, and stylish 1960s Holden
- You value performance, refinement, and collectible status
Verdict – Which Is Better? The EJ Holden refined the EK with updated styling and comfort. The EH Holden brought Holden fully into the mid-1960s with modern design, improved engines, and enhanced driving experience. For collectors, the EJ is historically significant, while the EH is iconic for its style, performance, and lasting appeal.