Second-model local
Built 1953-56, Holden’s FJ was the second crack at making a local sedan from the ground up, with of course significant design input from the GM head office in the USA.
While the mighty General Motors was happy to see an Australian model developed, it wasn’t going to stump up all the cash. The Holden subsiduary had to play its part, as well.
In a feature on the background of the FJ and its 48-215 predecessor, Dr John Wright tells us:
“In October 1944 the GM Board agreed to the manufacture of an Australian car but required GM-H to fund it. Prime Minister Ben Chifley persuaded the banks to supply the funds at commercial rates of interest, the loans to be repaid by GM-H.” There began the local legend.
This example appears to be running the original type ‘grey’ motor, a 2.2lt inline six, with three-spee column-shift manual trans.
The seller says it isn’t perfect, but goes close. For us, much of the appeal is with the period accessories such as the sun visor and rear wheel spats.
Located in Leeton, NSW, it’s on the market at $58,000.
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