Australia vs USA — 1971 vs 1970
| Valiant VH Charger R/T 265 Hemi | Superbird 426 Hemi | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 230 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 490 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,340 cc | 6,981 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 140 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.3 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,800 lbs | 3,750 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,692 mm | 2,946 mm |
| Length | 4,572 mm | 5,639 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 1,920 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,298 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $500,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant VH Charger R/T 265 Hemi counters with lighter weight, 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.
Putting the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant VH Charger R/T 265 Hemi against the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Australia versus USA. The 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 230 hp, a 195-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Chrysler Australia Valiant VH Charger uses a Inline-6 OHV Hemi displacing 4,340 cc, while the Plymouth Superbird relies on a V8 OHV (426 Hemi) with 6,981 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. The Chrysler Australia Valiant VH Charger carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 950 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi commands a significant premium over the 1971 Chrysler Australia Valiant VH Charger R/T 265 Hemi, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.