Australia’s first series production vehicle, the Holden 48-215 or “FX” as it would later be called, was the first steppingstone to all Australian built vehicle production that lasted for many decades.
While decidedly a simple car, it featured the latest in unitary construction techniques while incorporating American and European styling influences but with an Australian flavour.
The new FX was built in Australia for Australian’s and reflected this with comfortable seating for 6 passengers, rugged but supple suspension for Australia’s then rough roads and a 139ci inline 6 Holden ‘Grey’ motor that developed 60hp with a 3 speed column shift manual. The FX was more than capable of holding its own compared to imported vehicles. The FX was an immediate success for Holden with over 18,000 new customers paying a deposit without having seen the new vehicle!
This FX is believed to be one of the first all Australian built Holdens produced with body number 34 on the ID tag (reproduction type on firewall, lower tag on driver’s side chassis rail). The FX believed to be restored some 30 years ago as museum piece, though not museum quality anymore, it maintains a charming patina of a well-loved old Holden. Only a small amount of surface rust is evident. Parts such as the speedo, bumper overriders are FJ series. The ‘grey’ motor starts first time with plenty of power with easy relaxed 3 on the tree (3 speed column shift) shifting along with a soft floaty ride.
This FX would be great for an enthusiast wanting a nice charming patinaed FX/FJ or an excellent base for a full restoration.
1948 Holden FX Sedan - Body No: 34
Vehicle Details
Odometer: 25838
Engine: 2.15L inline 6 - 3 speed manual (column shift)
VIN: 48-34-M
Engine No: 1034