The Australian Chrysler Valiant was far more than a locally assembled American import. Beneath its bold styling was a series of engineering decisions, experiments, and innovations that made it one of the most technically interesting cars ever built in Australia. Here are ten lesser-known Chrysler Valiant facts that even many enthusiasts may not know.
1. Early Valiants Were Almost Rejected by Australian Engineers
When the first Valiants arrived from the United States, Chrysler Australia engineers were concerned they would not survive Australian road conditions. Suspension, steering, and body reinforcement had to be upgraded before full-scale local production could proceed.
2. The Hemi-6 Was Designed to Beat V8s, Not Just Compete
Unlike most six-cylinder engines of the era, the Hemi-6 was engineered specifically to outperform rival V8s in acceleration and mid-range torque, not simply to offer fuel economy. In top tune, it delivered performance that embarrassed larger engines.
3. Chrysler Valiants Were Among the Widest Cars on Australian Roads
At the time of their release, many Valiant models were noticeably wider than Holden and Ford competitors, which contributed to their spacious interiors but also gave them a commanding road presence unmatched in the 1960s.
4. The VE Valiant Almost Didn’t Win Car of the Year
The 1967 Wheels Car of the Year award for the VE Valiant was not a guaranteed win. Judges debated its size and styling before its engineering refinement and road manners ultimately secured the title.
5. Australia Got Valiant Models the U.S. Never Did
Several Australian-only Valiant variants were never sold in America, including unique body styles, trim levels, and performance configurations developed specifically for the local market.
6. The Charger E49 Was Developed in Record Time
The legendary Valiant Charger E49 was reportedly developed in under 12 months, with Chrysler engineers pushing limits to create Australia’s quickest accelerating six-cylinder production car.
7. Chrysler Experimented with Fuel Economy Long Before the Oil Crisis
Before fuel efficiency became a major concern, Chrysler Australia tested gearing, carburetion, and aerodynamic tweaks on Valiants to improve highway economy — well ahead of most competitors.
8. Valiants Used Unusual Weight Distribution
Due to engine placement and chassis design, some Valiant models achieved a more balanced front-to-rear weight distribution than rivals, improving ride comfort and high-speed stability on long Australian highways.
9. Panel Vans and Utilities Were Engineered as Heavy-Duty Vehicles
Valiant utes and panel vans weren’t simply passenger cars with the rear removed — they featured strengthened rear chassis sections and suspension to cope with trade and rural use.
10. Chrysler Considered Ending Valiant Production Multiple Times
Internal documents suggest Chrysler Australia considered ending Valiant production several times during the 1970s, but strong local loyalty and fleet demand kept the model alive until 1981.