Refining the Mid-1960s Classic
The EH Holden was Holden’s first fully modern 1960s design, introducing the new “Red” six-cylinder engines, updated styling, and a more comfortable driving experience. By 1965, Holden introduced the HD Holden, which further refined styling, mechanicals, and comfort, setting the stage for Holden’s mid-1960s dominance.
The HD Holden represented an evolution of the EH, offering sleeker lines, improved suspension, and minor mechanical upgrades while retaining the power and practicality of the “Red” six-cylinder engine.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
EH Holden:
- Fully modern 1960s styling with rounded lines
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants
- Chrome trim functional, with modest tail fins
- Sleek roofline and balanced proportions
HD Holden:
- Sharper, more angular 1965 styling
- Redesigned front grille and revised rear styling with less pronounced tail fins
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants retained
- Chrome trim refined, Premier and Special trims more stylish
The HD looked more contemporary and streamlined than the EH, giving it a more modern mid-1960s presence on the road.
Interior Design
EH Holden:
- Redesigned dashboard with improved instrumentation
- Bench seating for up to six passengers
- Basic interior materials with modest comfort
HD Holden:
- Refined dashboard layout and clearer gauges
- Improved seat support and upholstery
- Premier and Special trims featured enhanced interior finishes
- Slightly more spacious cabin with better ergonomics and visibility
The HD interior was more comfortable and user-friendly, reflecting Holden’s continued focus on passenger comfort.
Platform and Engineering Changes
Chassis and Suspension:
- EH: Ladder-frame chassis with coil-spring front, leaf-spring rear
- HD: Minor suspension refinements for smoother ride and better handling
- Steering more precise, body roll reduced
Brakes and Safety:
- Drum brakes front and rear
- Optional seatbelts; minor improvements in ride stability
- HD offered improved comfort and control over EH
The HD offered a smoother and more controlled driving experience than the EH.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
EH Holden Engines:
- 149 cu in and 179 cu in “Red” six-cylinder engines
- Three-speed manual or optional column shift
- Rear-wheel drive
HD Holden Engines:
- Same “Red” six-cylinder engines with minor refinements
- Three-speed manual, optional column shift
- Rear-wheel drive retained
- Slightly improved gearbox feel and clutch response
Performance Comparison:
- EH: Powerful and reliable
- HD: Smooth, refined, slightly better driving dynamics
- Both offered dependable performance, with HD feeling more polished
Model Range Comparison
EH Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Deluxe and Special trims offered
HD Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Premier and Special trims continued with improved interior and exterior refinements
- Minor mechanical improvements enhanced comfort and reliability
The HD retained versatility while offering minor but meaningful upgrades over the EH.
Technology and Features
EH:
- Redesigned dashboard and optional heater and radio
- Basic interior trim and controls
HD:
- Updated dashboard with improved gauge readability
- Optional heater, radio, and upgraded interior trim
- Improved seat comfort and ergonomics
- Minor mechanical refinements for smoother operation
The HD provided better comfort, convenience, and usability than the EH.
Driving Experience
EH Holden:
- Smooth ride, responsive handling
- Powerful engines for the era
- Cabin comfortable for families
HD Holden:
- Slightly smoother suspension and more precise steering
- Improved cabin comfort and interior layout
- Better ride quality on urban and rural roads
- Overall driving experience more refined than EH
The HD felt more modern, comfortable, and controlled, making it a refined mid-1960s Holden.
Reliability and Common Problems
EH:
- Reliable “Red” six-cylinder engines
- Minor wear in suspension and trim
- Easy to maintain
HD:
- Same reliable engines with minor improvements
- Interior trim slightly more durable
- Suspension refinements enhanced longevity
Both models are dependable classics, with HD offering improved comfort and handling.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- EH: Highly collectible as an early 1960s Holden
- HD: Slightly more desirable due to refined styling, comfort, and mid-1960s appeal
Parts Availability:
- Limited for both, HD parts slightly easier to source due to later production
Running Costs:
- Both economical; HD refinements improved drivability and comfort
Collector and Enthusiast Value
EH Holden:
- Iconic early 1960s Holden
- Appreciated for its introduction of the “Red” six-cylinder engine
HD Holden:
- Highly collectible mid-1960s Holden
- Sleeker styling, improved comfort, and refined driving experience make it desirable
- Deluxe and Special trims particularly sought after
Choose EH if:
- You want an early-1960s Holden with historical significance
- You value the introduction of the “Red” six-cylinder engine
Choose HD if:
- You want a more modern, comfortable, and refined mid-1960s Holden
- You value updated styling, trim, and driving experience
Verdict – Which Is Better? The EH Holden introduced Holden’s first fully modern 1960s design, featuring the powerful “Red” six-cylinder engine and improved styling. The HD Holden refined this formula with sleeker styling, improved suspension, and better comfort, offering a more polished mid-1960s driving experience. For collectors, the EH is iconic for its innovation, while the HD is prized for refinement, comfort, and style.