Australia’s Refined Mid-1960s Classic
The HD Holden represented a refinement of Holden’s mid-1960s design, offering sleeker styling, improved suspension, and continued use of the “Red” six-cylinder engines. By 1966, Holden introduced the HR Holden, which brought further styling enhancements, mechanical improvements, and upgraded interior comfort, solidifying Holden’s position as Australia’s leading family car.
The HR Holden was the pinnacle of the mid-1960s Holden evolution, providing subtle styling refinements, smoother ride quality, and improved practicality, making it a highly desirable model today.
Design and Styling Comparison
Exterior Design
HD Holden:
- Mid-1960s styling with sharp lines and pronounced front grille
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants
- Chrome detailing modest, Deluxe and Special trims offered more shine
HR Holden:
- More refined styling with revised grille, new bumper designs, and updated tail lights
- Sedan, wagon, panel van, and utility variants continued
- Chrome trim enhanced, giving a more polished and contemporary look
- Subtle improvements to body panels for smoother lines and a modern appearance
The HR looked more modern and sophisticated than the HD, giving it a stylish mid-1960s presence.
Interior Design
HD Holden:
- Refined dashboard with improved gauge readability
- Comfortable bench seating for up to six
- Interior materials modest, ergonomics basic
HR Holden:
- Updated dashboard layout with improved instrumentation and controls
- Better seat support and upholstery, especially in Premier and Special trims
- Slightly more spacious cabin with enhanced ergonomics and comfort
- Improved interior finishes provided a more modern feel
The HR interior was noticeably more comfortable and user-friendly, reflecting Holden’s continued focus on passenger comfort.
Platform and Engineering Changes
Chassis and Suspension:
- HD: Ladder-frame chassis with refined suspension
- HR: Suspension further refined for smoother ride, improved handling, and reduced body roll
- Steering more precise, ride comfort improved for longer journeys
Brakes and Safety:
- Drum brakes front and rear on both models
- Optional seatbelts, minor safety refinements in HR
- Ride quality and stability noticeably improved in HR
The HR offered a more comfortable and controlled driving experience than the HD.
Engine and Drivetrain Comparison
HD Holden Engines:
- 149 cu in and 179 cu in “Red” six-cylinder engines
- Three-speed manual or optional column shift
- Rear-wheel drive
HR Holden Engines:
- Same “Red” six-cylinder engines with minor mechanical refinements
- Slightly smoother clutch and gearbox operation
- Rear-wheel drive retained
- Improved reliability and driving refinement
Performance Comparison:
- HD: Powerful and reliable
- HR: Smooth and refined; slightly improved drivability
- Both offered dependable performance, but HR provided a more comfortable and modern driving feel
Model Range Comparison
HD Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Standard and Special trims available
HR Holden:
- 4-door sedans, wagon, panel van, utility
- Standard and Special trims refined with upgraded interiors and exterior styling
- Minor mechanical improvements enhanced comfort and drivability
The HR retained versatility while providing subtle but meaningful improvements over the HD.
Technology and Features
HD:
- Basic dashboard with optional heater and radio
- Focused on reliability and practicality
HR:
- Redesigned dashboard with improved gauge layout
- Optional heater, radio, and upgraded interior trim
- Better seat comfort and ergonomics
- Minor mechanical upgrades for smoother operation
The HR offered better comfort, convenience, and driving experience than the HD. It was also a safer car
Driving Experience
HD Holden:
- Smooth ride with responsive handling
- Powerful engines for the era
- Comfortable for families on short trips
HR Holden:
- Smoother suspension and improved handling
- Refined steering and ride quality
- Cabin more comfortable for passengers
- Overall, a more polished and enjoyable driving experience
The HR felt more modern, comfortable, and controlled, making it a refined mid-1960s Holden.
Reliability and Common Problems
HD:
- Reliable “Red” six-cylinder engines
- Minor wear in suspension and trim
- Easy to maintain
- Rust
HR:
- Similar reliability with minor improvements to suspension and interior
- Interior trim slightly more durable
- Mechanical refinements enhanced long-term usability
- Rust
Both models are dependable classics, with HR offering improved comfort, refinement, and ride quality.
Ownership Costs Today
Purchase Price:
- HD: Collectible, valued for mid-1960s design and reliability
- HR: Slightly more desirable due to improved styling, trim, and comfort
Parts Availability:
- Limited for both, HR parts slightly easier due to later production
Running Costs:
- Both economical; HR refinements improved drivability and comfort
Collector and Enthusiast Value
HD Holden:
- Iconic mid-1960s Holden
- Appreciated for its role in Holden’s evolution
HR 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 HD if:
- You want a mid-1960s Holden with historical significance
- You value simple, reliable design
Choose HR if:
- You want a more modern, comfortable, and refined mid-1960s Holden
- You value updated styling, interior comfort, and improved drivability
Verdict – Which Is Better? The HD Holden refined the EH’s mid-1960s design, offering improved styling, suspension, and comfort. The HR Holden built on this with further refinement, modernized interior, and enhanced ride quality. For collectors, the HD is historically significant, while the HR is prized for its polished styling, comfort, and driving experience