1961 Holden EK Station Wagon

Description

Holden's EK series was a facelift of it's popular FB model, launched with much fanfare in May 1961 thanks to the introduction of Holden's first automatic transmission, the Hydra-matic. Otherwise the EK was largely unchanged from the FB, itself introduced just over a year earlier with styling in keeping with the latest American trends, incorporating a wraparound windscreen and even rear fins (albeit far more restrained than those found on GM's US models). The new Holden put on weight, so the trusty grey motor came in for some work - it was bored out by 1/16th of an inch to raise the total cubic capacity to 138-cid, while the compression ratio was also lifted to 7.25:1, resulting in a total output of 75 bhp. The brakes and clutch were also improved. External changes between the FB and EK were few, but the new model received a slightly wider front grille, the bumper over riders were reshaped and the hubcaps now had the Lion emblem. The wraparound chrome molding seen on the FB Specials was replaced by a simple horizontal chrome spear. Other changes included a wider grille with the turn indicators at either end, plus electric wipers instead of the older vacuum-operated type. The model range included the usual Standard or Special sedans and wagons along with two commercials, the utility and panel van. A total of 150,214 EK Holdens were built before the model was superseded by the EJ series in July 1962.