1971 Chrysler Valiant VH 360 V8 Sedan

Description

Chrysler’s VH Valiant was produced from June 1971 to March 1973. Significantly, it was the first Valiant to be a uniquely Australian design and featured an entirely new body which was larger and roomier than that of its VG series predecessor. The VH was available as a four-door sedan and station wagon, two door coupe and utility, and of course new Charger sports coupe. Along with the new Australian-designed sedan and wagon bodies, the VH Hardtop models used locally-made bodies for the first time. This was unlike the previous VG Hardtops which had used imported sheet metal for all panels rear of the windscreen. The Hardtops now rode on a 115-inch wheelbase, four inches longer than the sedans and wagons, while the Charger used a shortened 105-inch wheelbase. Model lines varied across each Valiant variant, with the VH sedan available as a base model, and Ranger, Ranger XL, sporty Pacer, Regal and Regal 770 equipment levels. Chrysler Australia’s “Hemi 6” straight six engine was offered in three displacements, 215ci, 245ci and 265ci, while the 318ci V8 was also available. Transmission choice was three-speed manual and three-speed automatic initially, with a four-speed manual available on Charger models from June 1972. A 340ci V8 was fitted to the Charger 770SE E55 model, which was released in October 1972. From 1973 Australian regulations required amber turn indicators be fitted to the front of all passenger vehicles, as well as the rear, which meant the combined park light/turn signals with clear lenses fitted to the VH were no longer legal. Consequently, 1973 build VH Valiants were fitted with amber turn indicators, and park light were relocated below the front bumper.