The Holden Story
The FE was a totally re-designed Holden. As with
the FJ, a Standard, Business and Special model were available.
The car was longer, lower, heavier and more powerful than the FJ.
The FE had a more modern, squarer appearance. The engine hood,
belt line, and rear luggage compartment were all lower. Glass
area was increased 40 per cent and a one piece curved windscreen
included.
A big feature of the FE was the improvements to ride and
handling. Suspension additions were a front stabilizer bar and
new springs. The car had new re-circulating ball steering gear
with a new steering linkage layout.
The FE used the same 132.5 cu. in. six but it now produced more
power and torque because of bigger inlet valves and modified
inlet ports.
A 12 volt electrical system replaced the six volt system.
Both the interior and exterior were re-styled. The rear fenders
were now integral with the body and flush with the outer panel of
the rear doors. Twin tail and stop lights were introduced in the
trailing edges of the rear fenders, with reflectors in the tail
light lens and electric turn signals were available on Specials.
Back-up lamps were an accessory. Internally there was a new
instrument panel and dashboard.
Technical Specifications | |
MODEL: FE Holden sedan, 155,161 built from 1955-1958. | |
DIMENSIONS:Overall length 176 in.. width 67 in., height 61 in., wheelbase 105 in., track, 54 1/2 front and rear and weight 2349 lbs. approx. | |
ENGINE: 132.5 cu. in. OHV six. | |
POWER OUTPUT: 70 bhp at 4000 rpm. | |
TORQUE: 110 ft. lbs at 1200 rpm. | |
COMPRESSION RATIO: 6.8:1. | |
TRANSMISSION: Three speed with syncromesh on second and third. Column mounted shift lever. | |
SUSPENSION: Front: independent coils, control arms, stabiliser bar. shock absorbers. Rear: semi-elliptical leaf springs, shock absorbers. | |
BRAKES: Four wheel hydraulic, drums. | |
PETROL TANK: 9 1/2 gallons. | |
WHEEL SIZE: 13 x 4.50. |