The Valiant was Plymouth’s entry into the compact car market in 1960. The similar Dodge Lancer followed the next year. Styling of the vehicles was a bit unorthodox (but in line with the rest of Chrysler at the time), so sales didn’t mirror that of the Ford Falcon or Chevrolet Nova. A redesign came in 1963, and the public responded positively. That was also the first year for a convertible, and this example is in fairly rare company at 16,000 assemblies (when did you last see one?). Located in Nevada City, California, this “almost a daily driver” is available here on craigslist for $5,500.
With the oddball styling gone in 1963, Plymouth sold 43% more Valiants than the year before. And Dodge scrapped the Lancer name and moved the Dart moniker downstream instead, and they also saw positive results. A Slant-Six was still the only engine choice (until a V8 came in mid-1964), available in displacements of 170 or 225 CI. The seller’s drop-top has one of the two, paired with a push-button automatic transmission (Chrysler continued with that format until 1965).
We’re told this car originated in California, which should be one reason it doesn’t have any rust. The paint isn’t that shiny and there is a small dent in one rocker panel, but it certainly looks okay and sports a new canvas top. The odometer has rolled over, so the vehicle may have 173,000 miles, yet it runs well but doesn’t stop so well (that part needs work). This convertible is a project that the seller has decided to move away from to focus on a ’48 Ford.
New to the Plymouth are the upholstery, carpeting, exhaust, battery, rebuilt carburetor, and tires. If you notice any missing exterior trim pieces, they’re in the trunk. The title is MIA, so the car will be sold with a bill of sale. If you were looking for a daily driver, that’s also a drop-top; this Mopar may only take a couple of weekends of work to get there. The price likely reflects the missing title. And thanks to “Barney” for another clever tip!
When’s the last time I saw one? How about never. This would be a nice little runabout for the price. Slant Six is bullet proof if uninspiring. Fix the brakes and go cruising.