Megan Anderson's 1966 Valiant VC - Reader Ride

By: Guy Allen, Unique Cars mag, Photography by: Steve Nally

Date: 02.06.2023

Megan Anderson bought her VC Valiant in 1980

If you look back at what was available in Australian showrooms back in 1966, you’d understand what a big purchase a car like this would have been for most families. We’re talking of a time when a relatively upmarket Valiant, Holden or Ford could easily add up to a third of the cost of a house, or more.

It was quite literally the second-biggest purchasing decision of their lives for many folk.

So a car like this 1966 V8 VC Valiant was quite something to have parked in the driveway. Your main rivals at the time were the HR Holden and XP Falcon, both of which were more than matched in performance by the VC Valiant’s slant six. Upgrade to a V8, which neither of its rivals offered, and you really had something special.

Megan’s Mopar makes her smile

The 4.5lt (273ci) V8 in the Valiant was imported, however, there was still significant local content, such as body pressings, glass, trim and electrical components. Something like five per cent of the 65,000 VC generation made locally were V8s, which makes them a bit special.

To help set the car apart, it came with a giant centre console shifter for the three-speed Torqueflite auto transmission, bucket seats and vinyl roof.

Vinyl roof screamed luxury

For long-term owner Megan Anderson, buying the big VC back in 1980 was as much about practicality as it was indulgence. At the time she needed something affordable that could pull a horse float.

Even so, the then second-hand car had presence. She recalls her first reaction: "Wow, look at all that chrome. It looks so big and flashy!"

As time went on the car proved to be a great decision, crossing the countryside hauling a heavy load with no real complaints.

Inevitably the car started to get tired both in performance and appearance, which potentially led to a tough decision: do we move it on or keep it? It seems there was no real doubt in Megan’s mind.

Sweet and clean engine bay

Over the years the car had subtly shifted its role from workhorse to trusted companion and it became inevitable that it would be restored. That decision was no doubt aided by the fact Megan and husband Ron have somehow become collectors over the years, with a few nice Chryslers populating the shed – several of which (including this car) we’ve featured over the years.

Some years ago, the VC was restored to a condition very close to the way it would have appeared in the showroom back in 1966. Even at that stage some discoveries were made: "I think it was always a family car," Megan said. "When we pulled everything out we found kids’ toys behind the back seat,’’ said Megan.

Torqueflite Auto adorns giant centre console

One of the few departures from dead stock over the years has been the period Tasman wheels shod with modern tyres, credited with making a big improvement in grip and steering response.

With 43 years of ownership and counting, there’s no sign of the VC going anywhere. After all, you wouldn’t sell the family pet, would you?

From Unique Cars #478, May 2023

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