1971 Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T E49 Coupe Review
The Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T E49 Coupe was first imported to Australia in 1971. Only 149 of these high-performance muscle cars were brought to Australia, making it a rare sight on the roads. The car was highly sought after due to its unique design, power, and torque. The Charger R/T E49 was powered by a 265ci Hemi six-cylinder engine, which produced 302 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque.
The Charger is capable of reaching a top speed of 225 km/h. It also boasts an impressive 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 6.1 seconds, making it a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack.
Power, Torque, and Appointments
The Charger R/T E49 was the most powerful six-cylinder car of its time. It was equipped with a four-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The car had disc brakes all around and was fitted with heavy-duty suspension. The Charger R/T E49 Coupe had an aggressive stance, thanks to its front and rear spoilers and aggressive wheels. The interior of the car was also well-appointed, with bucket seats, a centre console, and a wood-rimmed steering wheel.
Cult Icon
The Charger R/T E49 Coupe quickly became a cult icon in Australia. Its unique design, power, torque, and appointments captured the imagination of car enthusiasts. The street V for victory sign and advertising slogan, “Hey Charger!” added to the appeal of the car. The Charger R/T E49 Coupe was not only a high-performance muscle car, but it also had a unique personality that people related to.
Success in Racing
The Charger R/T E49 Coupe was a success in racing at Bathurst. It won the 1971 and 1972 Hardie Ferodo 500, an event that has become iconic in Australian motorsport history. The Charger was also successful in other forms of motorsport, including drag racing and hill climbs.
In 1971, the Charger driven by Allan Moffat won the race, beating out the competition and solidifying the Charger’s place in racing history. The Charger’s success didn’t stop at Bathurst, as it went on to win numerous races and accolades throughout the 1970s.
The regular driver of the Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T E49 was Allan Moffat, a legendary driver who helped to cement the Charger’s reputation as a racing powerhouse. Moffat was known for his skill behind the wheel and his ability to push the Charger to its limits on the track.
Commercial Success
While the Charger R/T E49 Coupe was a commercial success in terms of its popularity and cult icon status, it was not a commercial success in terms of sales. Only 149 examples were imported to Australia, making it a rare sight on the roads. The high price of the car at the time, which was around $5000, made it unaffordable for most people.
1971 For Falcon GTHO vs “The Charger”
The 1971 Ford Falcon GTHO Phase III is often compared to the Charger, and for good reason. Both cars were built in Australia and were designed for high-performance racing. However, the Charger has a few advantages over the GTHO Phase III.
For one, the Charger was lighter and more agile, giving it an edge on the racetrack. Additionally, the Charger had a more powerful engine, which helped it to outpace the GTHO Phase III in many races.
Despite the Charger’s impressive performance, its real appeal lies in its iconic design and cultural significance. The Charger represents an era of automotive history when muscle cars ruled the road, and drivers prized speed and power above all else. The Charger’s sleek, futuristic design and powerful engine captured the imaginations of car enthusiasts, and it remains a coveted collector’s item to this day.
Record Price Paid
In fact, the Charger’s status as a collector’s item is reflected in its record-breaking sales prices. In 2018, a 1971 Chrysler Valiant Charger E49 R/T sold for a staggering $385,000 at auction, making it one of the most expensive Australian cars ever sold. This impressive price tag is a testament to the Charger’s enduring legacy and its continued popularity among collectors and enthusiasts.
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