Holden FJ Panel Van 1955 coming up at Shannons

By: Guy Allen, Unioque Cars magazine

Date: 23.04.2017

Holden FJ panel van

Holden FJ panel van

Holden FJ panel van

Holden FJ panel van

First locally-built panel van has historical significance

The May 8 Melbourne Autumn auction at Shannons features a number of hero cars, such as Charger, GT-HO and Monaro, but we couldn't resist taking a close look at this, a 1955 FJ panel van.

Built from 1953, the FJ was the second iteration of the first locally-built Holden (after the 48-215), it was running a 149ci (2.2lt) straight six by this time claiming 65hp.

A three-speed manual was your only choice of transmission, while you could have it as a sedan, utility or panel van. A station wagon was built but didn't make it into production.

This was Holden's first export car, with units being shipped to New Zealand. It was being phased out by 1956, in favour of the FE.

This example is a stunner on the outside, clearly put together as a promotional vehicle. Eelctrics have been upgraded to 12 volt, otherwise it's largely original. The auctioneer estimates it at $35-45,000.

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