“PM asked 1000 new Valiant owners to be frank about their cars. This report is what they said and it reflects an enchantment with the compact concept. Here, for example, are some quotes:
‘This is one of the most generally satisfying cars I’ve ever owned. It represents a return to sanity in American car design. It retains all the practical and desirable features without any excesses.’ — California engineer. . . .
But these same owners have some misgivings about buying a brand-new model — any brand-new model. . . .
‘I was fully aware that I would have some new-car bugs. When speaking to the dealer about defects, his attitude seemed to be that you have to expect these things from a mass-produced Detroit car. In desperation I called the factory and again the same attitude prevailed’ — Michigan salesman. . . .
‘I would much rather buy American cars. But they should be delivered in better shape. My Volkswagen was delivered in perfect condition. I think it is very important that the American manufacturers be careful about this detail.’ — Michigan supervisor.”
— Popular Mechanics (1960)
RE:SOURCES
Popular Mechanics; 1960. “Valiant Handles Well, Is Peppy, But Workmanship Poor, Say Owners.” May issue: pp: 86-90, 262, 270.
BROCHURES & ADVERTISEMENTS:
- oldcarbrochures.org: Valiant (1960)
To some extent, Chrysler made the same mistake with the Valiant that it made with the 1957 models. Namely, it rushed development to get the car on the market as quickly as possible, which resulted in quality issues. In the case of the Valiant, in addition to sloppy assembly, a high percentage of customers complained about serious water leaks.
With the restyled 1963 models, Chrysler appeared to have learned its lesson. Time was taken to iron out problems before the cars reached the showroom. Consumer Reports later rated the 1963 Valiant as the most reliable used car on the market. By the mid-1970s, I remember that people hunted for Valiants and Darts with the slant six and automatic as used cars.
Chrysler did the same two years later when they introduced their revamped large cars. They focused in on quality control, and built some of the most memorable cars of that time period. That all changed after 1969 or so, sadly.
Geeber, I’ve owned my ’63 since 1981.
“With the restyled 1963 models, Chrysler appeared to have learned its lesson. Time was taken to iron out problems before the cars reached the showroom. Consumer Reports later rated the 1963 Valiant as the most reliable used car on the market”
http://oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Plymouth/1963%20Plymouth/1963%20Plymouth%20Valiant%20Folder/index1.html
5/50 Warranty started that year too.
It’s still the perfect size. It set the template for all the five cars purchased since.
Slant, 3 speed on the column, unboosted steering and brakes, hardtop breeziness. Full driver engagement required.
More like this, Steve. I used to pore over these PM Owner’s Reports for hours.