Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger VH R/T E49
The Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T E49 is arguably the most legendary Australian muscle car ever built. Created as a homologation special for Group E touring car racing, it was so devastatingly fast that it effectively prompted a rule change that ended the era of Australian muscle car racing.
At its heart was the remarkable E49 version of Chrysler Australia's Hemi-6 engine. This 265 cubic inch (4.3-liter) inline six-cylinder featured a hemispherical combustion chamber head, triple Weber 45 DCOE sidedraft carburetors, a high-lift camshaft, and free-flowing exhaust headers. The result was 302 hp — an extraordinary figure for a naturally aspirated six-cylinder in 1972, and more than many V8s of the era.
The E49 package included heavy-duty suspension with revised spring rates, wider wheels, limited-slip differential, front disc brakes, a close-ratio four-speed manual gearbox, and a functional bonnet scoop. The car was strip-ready from the factory.
On the track, the E49 was devastating. It won the 1972 Australian Touring Car Championship driven by Leo Geoghegan, and dominated everywhere it appeared. The car was so fast that in 1972 and 1973 it essentially forced the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) to revise their homologation requirements, making it much harder for manufacturers to build limited-production specials. This rule change effectively ended the golden era of Australian touring car homologation specials.
Only 149 E49 Chargers were produced, making it one of the rarest and most valuable Australian cars. Every surviving example is known and documented. At auction, E49 Chargers regularly sell for several hundred thousand dollars, with concours examples approaching three-quarters of a million. The E49 represents the absolute pinnacle of the Hemi six-cylinder engine family and the Australian muscle car era.
The Charger R/T E49 stands alongside the Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III and Holden Torana A9X as one of the 'big three' of Australian muscle cars.
The E49 is the most collectible Australian car and virtually all examples are known. Provenance is critical — verify build number against Chrysler records and E49 registry. Watch for clones (E37/E38 cars converted to E49 spec). Key authentication points: triple Weber intake manifold, specific camshaft profile, factory build plate data. Values have risen consistently for decades. Condition ranges from barn finds requiring complete restoration to concours-quality showpieces. Always obtain independent authentication before purchasing.
149 E49 units produced in 1972 for Group E homologation. The 265 Hemi six with triple Webers produced 302 hp (gross). Also available: E37 (2-barrel, 280 hp), E38 (4-barrel, 280 hp). Regular Charger R/T used 4-barrel 265 Hemi with 280 hp. All VH Chargers built at Tonsley Park, Adelaide.