Description
The EH, introduced in 1963, holds a significant place in Australian automotive history as one of the nation’s best-selling cars. Its success can be attributed to a combination of factors: a revamped engine, clever design updates, and competitive pricing. These elements made the EH the fastest-selling car in Australia during its time.
Catering to a diverse consumer base, the EH came in nine different models, including commercial variants like the Utility and Panel van, which retained some styling cues from its predecessor, the EJ model.
One of the standout features of the EH was its new powerplant, known as the ‘Red’ engine. This engine not only offered more power and better fuel efficiency compared to the previous ‘Grey’ engine but also demanded less maintenance. The 149 cubic inch engine delivered 100 horsepower, marking a 33% increase over the ‘Grey’ engine, while the 179 cubic inch variant offered 115 horsepower, a 50% improvement. Despite the availability of both engines and a Hydramatic transmission for the Utility and Panel van models, the majority of EHs sold were equipped with the 149 cubic inch engine paired with a manual transmission.
Designed for practicality and durability, the EH Utility and Panel van models featured laminated hardwood trays capable of carrying half a ton of cargo. Notably, safety was also a priority, with the removal of the driver’s side door lock intended to prevent accidents during deliveries.
The EH holds a special place in the Classic Carlectables Tastes of Australia Collection, marking its sixth model release. This collection celebrates iconic vehicles that are quintessentially Australian, and future releases are planned to maintain the tradition of representing Classic Carlectables models in their traditional branding colors.
