Chrysler Valiant (RV1)
The Chrysler Valiant is an automobile which was produced in Australia from January 1962 to March 1962 by Chrysler Australia. It was the first Australian Chrysler Valiant model.
The Valiant RV1 was launched in Australia in January 1962. Completely knocked down packs were imported from Windsor in Canada, bodies were painted at Chrysler Australia's Mile End facility and final assembly was undertaken at Tonsley Park.Gavin Farmer, Great Ideas in Motion, 2010, page 107 The Australian model comprised a combination of US Valiant V100 base model and V200 deluxe model components.Gavin Farmer, Great Ideas in Motion, 2010, page 106
Model range
The Valiant RV1 was produced in two models:The RV1 was offered only in 4 door sedan form. The RV1 was marketed by Chrysler Australia as the "Valiant by Chrysler" rather than as the Chrysler Valiant.
Engines and transmissions
The RV1 was offered only with a capacity inline-six engine, with a choice of three-speed manual transmission or optional three-speed TorqueFlight automatic transmission. The engine was called the Slant Six, due to it being inclined to the right at an angle of 30 degrees. This apparently allowed for a lower bonnet line and also allow for the long intake manifold arms which were also a feature.The manual transmission was a 3 speed floor shift, with a "curvy" style gearstick that wrapped abound the edge of the bench seat, and sat next to the drivers leg. It wasn't until the introduction of the S Series Valiant that the shifter moved to the steering column.
The automatic Chrysler Torqueflite transmission had an excellent reputation for service and smoothness. Gears were selected via pushbuttons which sat to the edge of the cars dash gauges.