Plymouth Valiant Signet 200 V8
The Plymouth Valiant was Chrysler Corporation's answer to the compact car revolution of 1960, and it proved to be one of the company's most enduring and successful designs. Launched alongside the Dodge Lancer (and initially sold simply as the 'Valiant' without Plymouth branding), the car combined advanced engineering with the kind of robust reliability that built lasting customer loyalty.
The original 1960-62 Valiant featured distinctive Virgil Exner styling with prominent faux spare tire trunk bulge and aggressive character lines. While the styling was controversial, the engineering underneath was first-rate. The Slant Six engine — a 170 or 225 cubic-inch inline-six tilted 30 degrees from vertical — was one of the most durable and efficient powerplants Detroit ever produced. The torsion bar front suspension provided a better ride and handling combination than the competition's coil or leaf spring setups.
For 1963, the Valiant received completely new styling that was far more conventional and attractive. The Signet 200 trim level, introduced in 1962, offered bucket seats, a center console, and upgraded interior appointments that gave the Valiant a sporty character. With the introduction of the 273 cubic-inch small-block V8 for 1964, the Signet 200 became a genuine compact performance car.
The 273 V8 in Commando form produced 235 gross horsepower from its 4-barrel carburetor and high-compression heads — a remarkable output for a compact car engine. Paired with a Hurst-shifted 4-speed manual transmission, the V8 Signet transformed the mild-mannered Valiant into a car that could embarrass much larger and more expensive machinery. The light weight of the A-body platform gave the 273-powered Valiant an excellent power-to-weight ratio.
The Signet 200 also served as the foundation for the legendary Barracuda, which was initially a Valiant Signet with a fastback roof grafted on. The relationship between the two cars highlights the fundamental soundness of the Valiant platform.
Today, the Valiant Signet 200 with V8 power is recognized as an early and important compact performance car. Its combination of light weight, willing V8 engine, and Chrysler's excellent drivetrain components make it a rewarding car to drive, while its relative obscurity compared to the Mustang and Camaro keeps prices accessible for collectors.
The A-body platform is well-supported by the Mopar aftermarket. Check for rust in the trunk floor, lower quarters, floor pans, and frame rails. The Slant Six engine is virtually indestructible; the 273 V8 is also very reliable. The torsion bar front suspension may need rebuilding but parts are available. Verify the V8 engine option — many Valiants were six-cylinder cars, and V8 Signets are less common and more valuable. The 4-speed manual transmission is the desirable choice. Interior parts specific to the Signet (bucket seats, console) can be difficult to source. Check for collision damage, as these were affordable cars driven by young people.
The Valiant was initially sold without the Plymouth name (1960-61) as a standalone brand. Plymouth branding was added for 1962. The Signet 200 designation was introduced in 1962. V8 power (273 CI) became available for 1964. The Commando 273 with 4-barrel carburetor was the performance option. The A-body Valiant platform also underpinned the Barracuda and Dodge Dart.