| Chrysler Valiant Charger | |
|---|---|
.jpg) Chrysler VH Valiant Charger R/T | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Chrysler Australia |
| Also called | Chrysler Charger (VK & CL series) |
| Production | 1971–1978 |
| Designer | Bob Hubbach, Bryan Smyth (VH) Dennis Nicolle (VJ) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Muscle car |
| Body style | 2-door coupe |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | A-body |
| Related | Chrysler Valiant Dodge Dart Plymouth Valiant |
The Chrysler Valiant Charger was a two-door hardtop coupe introduced by Chrysler Australia in 1971. It was a short wheelbase version of the concurrent Australian Chrysler Valiant sedan. Introduced within the VH Valiant series, it continued as a variant through the subsequent VJ, VK and CL series, until production ceased in 1978. It was marketed and badged as the Valiant Charger in the VH and VJ series and as the Chrysler Charger in the later VK and CL series.
While still based on the US Chrysler A-body platform, with virtually identical front suspension, the fenders were widened, and a wider rear axle fitted, so that the track, front and rear, was considerably wider than any US A-body, this also allowed wheels much wider than a US A-body. The Australian Chargers also used a 5-on-4.5" wheel bolt circle (still 7/16" studs), while the US cars did not go to "big bolt pattern" until 1973.
The Charger was extraordinarily popular in Australia during the VH series. At one point Charger production totalled 80% of all Australian Valiant production.
The VH Valiant Charger achieved critical acclaim, winning the 1971 Australian Wheels Car of the Year Award. It was also popular in New Zealand where they were assembled from imported kits.
The sporty image of the Charger faded through the VJ range of cars and was neutered altogether by 1975 release of the VK series.
During the seven years of production, the Charger carried many variations of essentially two basic powerplants, based on the Chrysler Hemi-6 Engine and versions of the Chrysler LA engine V8.