1972 CHRYSLER VALIANT VH CHARGER R/T E49

“Hey Charger!” This simple yet potent catchphrase continues to echo through the annals of Australian automotive history, symbolising the meteoric rise of the Chrysler Valiant Charger. Introduced to the VH series in August 1971, the Charger, with its unique shortened wheelbase, became an instant sensation, a true testament to the engineering prowess of the era.

Representing a remarkable 80 percent of all Australian VH Valiant production, the Charger was more than a car; it was a phenomenon. The vehicle’s grandeur was evident not only in its design but also in its accolades, most notably being crowned the 1971 Car of the Year by Wheels Magazine. The Charger’s influence was omnipresent, becoming a symbol of automotive innovation and excellence.

The Charger’s seven-year reign was marked by a plethora of models, each catering to a diverse range of budgets and preferences. However, it was the Road and Track, or R/T models, that truly cemented the Charger’s legendary status among Australian muscle car aficionados. With just 1300 produced, these vehicles became the epitome of exclusivity and performance, boasting victories in major touring car races and captivating the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide.

Emerging as the undisputed king was the R/T E49, introduced in June 1972 with a production run of nine months and 149 units. Priced at $3975, this variant was not only built for speed but also had a clear objective – conquering Mount Panorama Bathurst with unparalleled prowess. The E49 was an engineering marvel, featuring a BorgWarner four-speed manual gearbox and a triple Weber carburettor-fed 4.3-litre Hemi-six engine, producing a ground-breaking 302 horsepower.

The R/T E49 was a visual and performance masterpiece, featuring a distinctive blacked-out grille, striking vertical stripes, quartz-halogen headlights, and an array of vivid colour options. The vehicle was also equipped with the A84 Track Pack option, which included a 160-litre fuel tank and additional enhancements, providing an on-track advantage by reducing pitstop frequency and enhancing overall performance.

The Charger R/T E49’s performance was nothing short of legendary. With a standing quarter-mile time of 14.4 seconds and a zero to 100mph time of 14.1 seconds, it was declared "the fastest accelerating Australian muscle car of all" by Wheels magazine in 1972. These staggering figures, combined with exhaustive testing and development by race ace Leo Geoghegan, positioned the Charger as a frontrunner at Mount Panorama, capturing the imagination of Australians nationwide.

The Charger R/T E49 made a significant impact on the racing circuit, with notable appearances at Bathurst in 1972 and 1973. The vehicle’s performance was a testament to the investment and dedication of Holden, Ford, and Chrysler in developing factory-prepared race versions of their homologation specials. The R/T E49’s race day success and enduring legacy continue to resonate with enthusiasts, representing a golden era of Australian motor racing.

Ken Spalding, the Sales Manager at Purnells of Bankstown NSW during the Charger’s heyday, vividly recalls the vehicle’s launch and the overwhelming reception it received. The “Hey Charger” ad campaign and the subsequent public response were unprecedented, with the Charger becoming a symbol of automotive excellence and a source of national pride.

Today, the opportunity to own such a rare and valuable piece of Australian automotive history, like the Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T E49 A84 Track Pack, is infrequent. With only 21 produced and just three believed to be in original condition, the vehicle represents a unique investment opportunity, with an asking price of $395,000 reflecting its rarity and significance.

The allure of an unrestored, original model remains unmatched in the automotive world. Mike Selby of AMCS emphasises the extraordinary value of such models, noting the magnetic appeal of vehicles that retain their original character and charm. The Hemi Orange R/T E49, with its rich history and limited ownership, is a prime example of this allure, attracting attention and admiration wherever it appears.

The Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T E49 is not merely a car; it is an inheritance of a legacy, a tangible connection to a bygone era of automotive innovation and excellence. The vehicle’s enduring appeal, combined with its rarity and historical significance, make it a coveted possession for collectors and enthusiasts alike, a reminder of the golden age of Australian muscle cars. The echoes of “Hey Charger!” continue to reverberate, symbolising a chapter of automotive history that is cherished and celebrated to this day.

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1972 Chrysler Valiant VH Charger R/T E49