Australia vs Australia — 1963 vs 1971
| Valiant AP5 Regal V8 | Valiant Charger VH R/T E49 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 302 hp |
| Torque | 251 lb-ft | 305 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,474 cc | 4,343 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.5 sec | 6.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,976 lbs | 3,010 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,667 mm |
| Length | 4,750 mm | 4,572 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 149 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $750,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 10/10 |
The 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger VH R/T E49 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1963 Chrysler Australia Valiant AP5 Regal V8 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Tracing the evolution of the Chrysler Australia Valiant AP5 from 1963 to 1971 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Chrysler Australia. The 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger VH R/T E49 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 302 hp compared to 180 hp, a 122-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chrysler Australia Valiant AP5 uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,474 cc, while the Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger relies on a Inline-6 OHV Hemi (E49 265) with 4,343 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger VH R/T E49 edges ahead at 6.1 seconds versus 10.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger VH R/T E49 commands a significant premium over the 1963 Chrysler Australia Valiant AP5 Regal V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant Charger VH R/T E49 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.