1969 Chrysler Valiant VF Regal Sedan

Introduced in March 1969, Chrysler’s expanded VF Valiant range saw the introduction of the Pacer - a model aimed directly at younger, more performance-oriented buyers - along with the Regal 770, long-wheelbase VIP and a stylish hardtop.  Billed “the beautiful beast” by Chrysler’s marketing department, the VF’s styling was essentially a facelift of the previous VE, with a revised grille treatment and a number of features added to meet new safety legislation, such as the padded instrument panel and energy absorbing steering wheel.  A unique identifier, the VF’s front turn signals were relocated to the top of each guard, along with unusual repeater lamps at the rear while the colour palette was expanded to include a wider range of metallic finishes.  The Regal model range consisted of the sedan, Safari wagon and hardtop, powered by Chrysler’s 225-cid slant six with either manual or Torqueflite automatic transmissions (the 318-cid V8 was optional on some models and standard with the Regal 770), along with four-wheel drum brakes.  Power front disc brakes and a “Sure Grip” limited-slip diff were optional across the line-up, along with several back axle ratios.  Facing stiff competition from arch rivals Holden and Ford, Chrysler built 52,944 VFs in 1969, a slight drop from the previous model, and they remain a great alternative to their more mainstream competitors.