CAR CULTURE
The Chrysler Valiant Safari & Regal Wagon Archive
While the sedans took the spotlight, the Valiant Safari was a mainstay for Australian families through the 1960s and ‘70s. From the versatile Ranger and Safari to the plush Regal Safari, Chrysler’s wagons offered a unique blend of American-inspired "fuselage" styling and cavernous local practicality that arguably surpassed its rivals from Broadmeadows and Fishermans Bend.
Engineering the Long-Roof Legend
This archive documents the evolution of the Aussie station wagon through high-resolution original advertisements, highlighting the mechanical grit that sat beneath the "Family Wagon" exterior:
The Power of Six: Relive the era of the legendary 225 Slant 6 that powered the Safari through the VF series, followed by the 1970 introduction of the locally-produced Hemi Six engines. From the economical 215 to the workhorse 245 and the high-torque 265, these engines redefined six-cylinder performance in a load-carrier.
V8 Muscle & Torque: For those towing caravans or boats, Chrysler offered the heavy hitters. Our archive features ads for the high-revving 273 V8, the ubiquitous 318 Fireball, and the massive 360 cubic-inch V8—the largest engine ever fitted to an Australian-made station wagon.
The Gold Standard Drivetrain: Explore the marketing behind the "superb" Torqueflite 3-speed automatic—widely regarded as the most durable and smooth-shifting transmission of its time—providing the effortless cruising power the Safari was famous for.
Safari Styling: From the unique rear sheet metal of the AP5-VG series to the massive, sophisticated presence of the VH through CM Regal Safaris, see how Chrysler Australia maintained a dedicated long-wheelbase feel for their family fleet.
