Entering the Mid-1960s
The FB Holden marked Holden’s entry into the 1960s with cleaner lines, improved interior comfort, and reliable “Grey” six-cylinder performance. By 1961, Holden had further refined its design and engineering, resulting in the EK Holden.
The EK Holden introduced more modern styling, improved mechanicals, and greater comfort, continuing Holden’s evolution as Australia’s family car of choice. It also included the first significant interior upgrades, helping the EK feel like a more sophisticated and contemporary vehicle compared to the FB.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
FB Holden:
- Clean, early-1960s styling with smooth lines
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants
- Chrome trim modest, grille simple
- Roofline slightly flatter, proportions practical
EK Holden:
- Slightly more squared and modern styling
- Revised grille with horizontal bars, more pronounced tail fins
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants retained
- Chrome trim refined, more stylish Deluxe and Special variants
- Improved proportions gave the EK a more contemporary and confident presence
The EK represented a more modern and stylish version of the FB, appealing to early-1960s buyers looking for comfort and style.
Interior Design
FB Holden:
- Functional dashboard and simple instrumentation
- Bench seating for up to six passengers
- Basic interior materials
EK Holden:
- Updated dashboard with more readable gauges and improved layout
- Better seat cushioning and upholstery
- Deluxe and Special trims offered enhanced interior materials
- Slightly more spacious cabin with improved visibility and comfort
The EK interior felt more refined and comfortable, reflecting Holden’s focus on passenger experience and ergonomics.
Platform and Engineering Changes
Chassis and Suspension:
- FB: Ladder-frame chassis, coil-spring front, leaf-spring rear
- EK: Minor chassis refinements, suspension improved for smoother ride and better handling
- Steering more responsive, body roll reduced
Brakes and Safety:
- Both featured drum brakes front and rear
- Optional seatbelts; EK offered minor safety improvements
- Improved ride quality contributed to safer, more controlled handling
The EK drove more smoothly and confidently than the FB, making longer journeys more comfortable.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
FB Holden Engines:
- 132 cu in “Grey” six-cylinder
- Three-speed manual, optional column shift
- Rear-wheel drive
EK Holden Engines:
- 132 cu in “Grey” six-cylinder, minor refinements for smoother operation
- Three-speed manual, optional column shift
- Rear-wheel drive retained; gearbox and clutch slightly improved
Performance Comparison:
- FB: Adequate and reliable
- EK: Smoother operation, more refined driving feel
- Both offered dependable performance, with EK feeling slightly more modern and responsive
Model Range Comparison
FB Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Standard and Special trims optional
EK Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Standard and Special trims continued with minor interior and exterior upgrades
- Expanded customization options for comfort and style
The EK range maintained versatility while providing slightly more modern styling and trim refinements.
Technology and Features
FB:
- Basic dashboard and controls
- Optional heater and radio
- Focused on reliability and practicality
EK:
- Improved dashboard and instrumentation layout
- Optional heater, radio, and upgraded interior trim
- Better seat support and ergonomics
- Minor mechanical refinements for smoother operation
The EK offered incremental improvements that enhanced comfort and convenience over the FB.
Driving Experience
FB Holden:
- Smooth for its era, stable handling
- Adequate for family and urban use
- Basic ride comfort
EK Holden:
- Smoother suspension and improved ride quality
- More responsive steering
- Cabin slightly more comfortable and refined
- Better overall driving experience for city and country roads
The EK felt like a more modern and enjoyable car to drive than the FB, thanks to improved comfort and refinement.
Reliability and Common Problems
FB:
- Mechanically reliable
- Minor wear in suspension or trim over time
- Easy to maintain
EK:
- Same reliable “Grey” six-cylinder engine
- Improved suspension and trim enhanced longevity
- Interior refinements better suited for longer-term use
Both models are dependable, but the EK offered slightly improved long-term comfort and usability.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- FB: Collectible for early-1960s Holden enthusiasts
- EK: Slightly more desirable due to styling, comfort, and trim refinements
Parts Availability:
- Limited for both; EK parts slightly easier to source due to later production
Running Costs:
- Both economical; EK refinements improved comfort and drivability
Collector and Enthusiast Value
FB Holden:
- Represents the early 1960s transition from 1950s styling
- Appreciated for historical significance and simplicity
EK Holden:
- More modern styling and comfort make it highly collectible
- Popular among enthusiasts seeking classic Holdens that are refined yet traditional
- Deluxe and Special trims particularly sought after
Choose FB if:
- You want an early-1960s Holden with classic styling and historical value
- You value simplicity and nostalgia
Choose EK if:
- You want a slightly more modern, comfortable, and stylish Holden
- You value refinement and improved drivability
Verdict – Which Is Better? The FB Holden brought Holden into the 1960s with updated styling and practicality. The EK Holden refined that formula with more modern looks, improved interior comfort, and slightly better driving dynamics. For collectors, FB represents a transitional classic, while EK offers a more polished and desirable early-1960s Holden experience