1964 Chrysler Valiant AP5 Sedan

Description

Chrysler's AP5 was something of a milestone for the Australian company.  Thanks to the establishment of a new $36 million dollar factory at Tonsley Park in South Australia, this was truly the first locally-built Valiant - hence the AP (Australian Produced) model designation.  The first of the new AP5s rolled off the production line on March 31, 1964.  Although similar in appearance to its American counterpart, the Aussie Valiant differed in several ways, with a revised grille and roofline.  Available in sedan, Wayfarer utility and Safari station wagon versions, the range was further expanded to include the upmarket Regal model.  Chrysler's R and S-series Valiants enjoyed a significant performance advantage over the equivalent products from both Ford and Holden and the AP5 continued this tradition thanks to the 225-cid slant six producing a healthy 145 bhp.  Buyers had a choice of the three-speed manual or push button TorqueFlite automatic transmissions.  With 49,440 AP5s built between May 1963 and February 1965, the new model firmly established Chrysler Australia on the automotive landscape for years to come.  Today the AP5 is an affordable, practical and thoroughly enjoyable Aussie classic from the 1960s and the perfect classic cruiser.