EK Holden. May 06

The introduction of the three-speed 'Hydramatic' provided the first taste of automatic motoring for thousands of Australians. To fit the auto box, modifications included an enlarged transmission hump, new tailshaft and redesigned column shift selector.

The Hydramatic was a fully imported American unit used in several GM vehicles overseas. It allowed the auto Holden to maintain respectable performance figures although the power of the Holden engine was not increased for the automatic versions. Economy was also closer to the manual than many expected.

The only change to the exterior metal was a new ventilation air intake located forward of the windscreen. Parking lights were incorporated into the top grille bar and side chrome on the Special was revised to a straight-through 'spear' style. The rear side colour flash of the FC and FB were gone, giving the vehicle a cleaner look.

EK interior refinements included revised trim, an electric wiper motor (replacing the vacuum unit) and a new fresh-air heating unit.

In brief: 1961 EK Holden
Engine: 2.26-litre six cylinder
Transmissions: Three-speed manual gearbox and three-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission.
Models: Standard sedan, Special sedan, Standard station wagon, Special station wagon, Panel van and Utility.
Prices when new: $2,212/_1,106 (Standard sedan), $2,576/_1,288 (Special auto sedan).
Dimensions: 4617mm(L)x 1703mm(H)
Wheelbase: 2667mm
Identification: Similar to FB, but with wider grille (with more vertical slats) and front turn indicators incorporated into grille surround; additional front badge mounted at the top of the grille.
HOLDEN lettering across the boot lid and chrome deleted from C-pillar on Specials.
Reverse lights were fitted as standard on automatic versions. A bonnet lock cable was fitted.
Total number built: 150,214.