HD Holden

A Brief History of the HD Holden

This page is dedicated to the history of the HD Holden, also known as 'Holden's Disaster'. This model was considered the ugly duckling after the public's acceptance of the EH's shape. There were, however, a number of significant engineering upgrades to this model.

The 'HD' was produced between 1965 and 1966, a shorter run than the EH. The HD was the first to use a ball joint suspension system up front, a vastly superior setup that the previous King Pins. Also, the HD was the first model Holden to offer disk brakes as standard on the Premier, and optional on all other models.

[The New X2 Engine] Engines -
The HD also offered the first factory performance option, being designated 'X2'. The X2 motor was a 179 cubic inch fitted with twin carbs, factory headers, a higher lift camshaft and aluminum alloy main bearings for reliability. It was good for 140 HP, which was 25 HP more than the standard 179.

The X2 was optional on all models, and vehicles fitted with this motor also received a special instrument cluster with proper gauges for monitoring engine temp, oil pressure, amps and volts instead of the usual tell tale lights.

The HD was also the first offered with an alternator as standard, as all previous models used a generator. Owners of the new HD Holden had the choice of either a three speed manual or the new two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission.

The HD model was offered in four body styles. The two passenger models were offered in three levels of refinement;

Standard - The basic car, with no additional trimming or fittings. The body of this model was painted in a single colour.

Special - The most popular model, with Special badges now located on the rear quarter panels, fancy patterned vinyl interiors, as well as a better choice of exterior colours with an optional white roof.

Premier - The luxury model, with the same features carried over from the EH Premier range. The interior trim and pattern had changed slightly from the previous model, and the console now included a storage compartment with a lift up lid. The Premier also featured optional metallic paint, and for the first time, a vinyl roof in black or white.

Additional information - To get to the HD Holden sales brochure, advertisements, Nasco Accessory guide and magazine tests, click on the links below.