1960 Valiant brings back memories

The Big Three automakers brought out their first compact cars in 1960. Ford had the Falcon, GM had the Corvair and Chrysler had the Valiant, with nearly 200,000 built.

An email arrived from Pat Jackson in Essex: “Hi Bill. Cameron Jackson had a young family when the Chrysler-Plymouth Valiant was introduced to the world in 1960. The Valiant was Chrysler’s first new six-cylinder (a Slant Six!) since the war and was one of the first cars in the world to be developed with the help of computers. Back in the 1960s, there were no seat belts or other safety features that are in our vehicles today.

“Cam was out for a walk a couple of years ago and walked by Rob and Darlene Perry’s place, where he had to stop to admire their classic cars: a 1960 Valiant and a ’67 Firebird.

Rob Perry and Cam Jackson ready for a ride in Rob’s 1960 Valiant.

“Cam was surprised last month when on his 92nd birthday Rob Perry showed up at his house driving his 1960 Valiant and Cam was quick to get in for a ride. Cam, still spry, and his family would like to thank Darlene and Rob Perry for helping to create new memories.”

Rob has owned his 1960 Valiant 4-door sedan for four years. He saw an ad for one on Gesto Road near the town of Essex, where Rob and Darlene live. It was driveable but had been off the road for a while. Rob performed work on the brakes and exhaust and added 50% tint to the windows.

The car is 100% original with its Slant Six of 170 cubic inches and 3-speed on the floor. Even all the upholstery is original. The odometer shows 26,000 miles and a close examination of the frame and rubber up on a hoist indicates the mileage to be accurate.

Rob’s ’67 Firebird is coming soon. Stay tuned!

I’m always looking for stories. Email billtsherk@sympatico.ca.