From 1948 to 1953 the Australian automaker General Motors-Holden’s Ltd (GMH) produced the Holden 48/215 also known as Holden FX.
The design of the car based on a post WW2 design by Chevrolet which was rejected because it was thought of to be too small for the American market. Development on the car began in 1944 when the government asked car manufacturers to submit proposals for an Australian car.
And the Holden became the nation’s first mass produced car. Even though it was far from luxurious, it became a real success and the people loved the Australian car made for Australians.
The car only had a single rear light and no turn indicators as security wasn’t much thought of at that time and with so few cars on the roads. But it had a locking petrol cap and was available in four colours: Convoy Grey, Seine Blue, Gawler Cream and Black. The car had a 6-cylinder engine with 2160 cc and 60 bhp and a three-speed manual.
It had a top speed of 80.4 mph (129km/h). From 1948 to 1953 120,402 cars were produced.
Further specifications:
- Length – 172.0 in (4.370 metres)
- Width – 66.9 in (1.702 metres)
- Height – 61.8 in (1.568 metres)
- Kerb weight – 2230lb (1012kg)
- Brakes – front and rear: Hydraulic 9 inch (229 mm) drums
- Models – Standard Sedan, Utility, Business Sedan.
- Body – monocoque
- 0-60 mph – 18.7 seconds
