The EH Holden is one of the best-loved Holdens of all time. The EJ Holden had already been a hit, marking a significant departure from previous Holdens when it launched in 1962. Both the EJ and EH, which Holden launched in 1963, were designed to take on Ford, who was building the very modern Falcon locally.

The EH Holden took things to a new level compared to the EJ. The story behind the EH Holden 1963 launch is a fascinating one. The EJ was brought to market as a low, sleek, and well-equipped vehicle, with the option of the Premier trim level. The EJ kept many of these features (some of the panels were kept the same) but scrapped the ‘grey’ engine, which had been under hoods since 1948, and introduced the new  `red motor’ six-cylinder, which sent performance through the roof.

Why the EH Holden launch was a success

The EH had cleaner lines than the EJ, but the red motor really marked it as a winner. This new engine became synonymous with the brand for the next 20 years. The performance edge it offered meant that Holden would be able to hold its own against the Falcon and Valiant. Buyers resonated with the mix of style and performance it offered, and by the time production stopped in 1965, a quarter of a million EH Holdens had been sold.

Some standout features included:

• the new six-cylinder motor was more powerful but also smoother
• the rooflines were crisper
• the rear was changed considerably.

A closer look at the EH Holden model

Consumers could choose between three models. Each of the models was available as a sedan or wagon. Similar to those introduced with the EJ, they were Standard, Special, and Luxury Premier.

New features:

• pistons and cylinder heads in new designs
• drum brakes
• the front suspension had a kingpin
• it had a generator (with an optional alternator)
• the oil pump was external.
• the valve lifters were hydraulic
• it had an oil filter

Engine options:

Base engine: 2.4-litre, available in low [95 horsepower (71 kW)], or high compression [115 (86 kW)] versions.

Standard and Special: 2.9-litre was standard

Premier: 2.9-litre available as an option

One of the things that made the EH so popular was it allowed buyers to personalise their cars to the degree that would have been unthinkable five years earlier. GM-H knew that dramatically expanding its list of accessories and options would increase the popularity of the model.

The Premier was the most premium option available – it was top of the range. It featured a two-tone paint scheme and the following details, ensuring comfort and a luxurious edge.

• Hydramatic 4-stage automatic transmission
• A genuine leather interior and bucket seats
• an armrest in the back seat that folded down
• carpets
• a heater/demister in the centre console
• diamond dot radio
• wheel trims that were chrome plated

The EH range also included  two commercial vehicles, one of which was the Utility. The carrying capacity of it (and the Panel Van) was half a ton. The Utility was offered with the standard 149 cubic inch motor or an optional 179. The Utility also came with Hydramatic transmission as an option.

The EH Holden S4 and motor racing

The EH also gave birth to the S4, which marked Holden’s first attempt at a motor-racing homologation model. The Holden S4 was designed to be a competitive contender that had a chance of taking on its rivals in the sports market around the track.

Holden designed the S4 to be ready for the 1963 Bathurst. This was new territory for Holden, but they were committed. The EH naturally became a favourite with racers on circuits, speedways and drags. Sadly for collectors today, only 120 S4s were manufactured by Holden. Consequently, they are a rare commodity and sought after by Holden enthusiasts today.

Let’s take a closer look at the EH Holden S4:

The EH Holden S4 was powered by a standard 179 cubic inch ‘red’ six. Other features gave it the edge, such as better braking (a power brake booster and sintered iron brake linings), and the ability to last longer on the race track, such as a more robust clutch and gearbox and larger tail shaft. The larger fuel take gave it staying power on the track, and it had a tougher diff carrier.

Collector’s guide for the EH Holden

The prices can range vastly if you’re looking to invest in an EH Holden. Anything from  $2,400 to $4,620 could be on the table. The benefit for collectors is that there is a sustainable supply of affordable parts for the EH. Modern upgrades are popular with collectors, so it can hold its own if you’re after a car for everyday driving.

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