Classic Humpy Holdens up for grabs at Shannons Winter Auction

Fewer original Holdens remain to grace our roads as time ticks on -- especially Australia's "first" car, the 48-215 (or as it's better known, the FX).

As luck would have it, however, the Shannons Winter auction provides the nostalgic among us a rare opportunity to purchase not one, but two Humpies, with an early 1950s FX and a 1953 FJ going under the hammer with no reserve price.

The FX was launched on the 29th of November 1948 by then PM, Ben Chifley, claiming "She's a beauty" to a sea of media and on-lookers.

Featuring unitary (moncoque) construction, a relatively new technique in the day, the FX was powered by a (45kW) 2.15-litre six-cylinder OHV engine mated to a three-speed manual transmission. The FX very quickly won the hearts of Australians the country over, selling more than 120,000 examples before being replaced by the FJ in September 1953.

Representing a fine example of our motoring past, Shannons will auction a 1951 FX Holden (pictured) at this month's Winter Auction. Hailing from Croydon, an outer suburb of Melbourne, the vehicle has been in dry storage since 1985 when its current owner -- the vehicle's second -- discovered it.

In May 2007 the car was given a bare metal respray in its original Seacombe Green paintwork. New chrome and rubber was added, as well as a bonnet mascot, while inside, a fresh roof lining and original NASCO accessories -- including a rear venetian blind -- were also fitted.  The remainder of the interior is unrestored.

Under the bonnet, the FX's original 138ci 'grey motor' was given a thorough clean up and the engine bay detailed.  The car retains its six-volt electrical system and vacuum-powered wipers -- a plus for enthusiasts chasing an 'original' vehicle.

With 92,000 miles on the clock, which are believe to be genuine, this rare example of 'Australia's Own Car' is expected to fetch between $10,000 and $16,000.

Joining its older sibling, a 1953 FX Holden in white will also go under the hammer next week. The late production example is also being offered with no reserve.

Purchased by its current owners in 2006, the vehicle is also from Victoria, and according to Shannons, represents a good example of its kind.

The vehicle appears to have undergone a restoration at some point in its life and features (original) grey upholstery. The FX features re-rolled rims with white-wall tyres and a converted 12-volt electrical system. New carpet and rear windscreen rubbers are supplied, but not fitted. Shannons advise that the car's brakes require 'some attention'.

Despite its less-than-perfect condition, the car is expected to fetch between $5000 and $7000

The Shannons Winter Auction will be held in Melbourne on Monday, May 31.

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