1965 Chrysler Valiant AP6 Sedan

Description

Chrysler's first Australian Valiant was launched in January 1962 and like Ford's rival Falcon, was based on its US counterpart, albeit suitably beefed up to cope with local conditions. The original R-series Valiants had Chrysler's powerful 225-cid slant six under its shapely bonnet and the combination of good looks - along with performance levels that easily eclipsed the contemporary Holdens and Fords - immediately put the new Valiant in a league of its own. With the advent of the second generation AP5 model in May 1963, the Valiant became even more Australian, with the body now pressed locally and the level of American content fell accordingly. The AP5 carried over the S-series' running gear but was completely new externally, with a more conventional shape that mimicked its American cousin and a new variant, the upmarket Regal, also made its debut. In March 1965 Valiant launched the revised AP6 model with a new range of engines and transmissions - including the launch of a V8 and the option of power-assisted brakes across the range. However the majority of the 43,344 AP6s continued to use Chrysler's smooth 225-cid six, with a choice of three-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Other mechanical improvements over the outgoing AP5 included a redesigned camshaft tuned for more torque and the old bush-button automatic gear selector was replaced with a more conventional column-change lever. A revised grille and new front guards, complete with more protruding headlamps, gave the AP6 a fresh new look and the model range consisted of the basic Valiant, upmarket Regal, Safari wagon and Wayfarer utility. Acrylic paint was standard across the range, with the option of various metallic finishes, along with two-tone upholstery. Chrysler Australia continued to enjoy strong sales success with the AP6, struggling to meet demand at the Tonsley Park factory, resulting in long waiting lists around the country.