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1970 Plymouth Valiant

The '70 Valiant: a cool, unassuming muscle car's little brother. Solid, reliable, and affordable, it reflected the decade's vibe. Not flashy, but dependable. Its boxy shape and understated style were part of its charm, making it a common sight and a piece of 70s Americana.

The Timeless Appeal of the 1970 Plymouth Valiant

The 1970 Plymouth Valiant stands as a testament to a bygone era of American automotive engineering—a time when compact cars started capturing the hearts of enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. But what makes this particular model so enduring? Could it be its association with some seriously famous names, or simply its unique ability to blend performance with practicality at a time of immense automotive evolution? Let's find out.

Photo of a 1970 Plymouth Valiant

1970 Plymouth Valiant Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Plymouth Valiant Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,250.00

Outstanding

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$15,600

Clean

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$12,100

Average

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$8,100*

Rough

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$4,100

1970 Plymouth Valiant Specs

Body Maker: Plymouth
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: VL41
Length: 188.4 inches
Width: 69.6 inches
Height: 54 inches
Wheelbase: 108 inches
Weight: 2,765lbs
Type: Inline 6, overhead valve, Single downdraft, Unknown at time of publication
Displacement: 198 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3.4 & 3.64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.5 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 125@4400
Horsepower Rated: 27.74
Torque: 180@2000
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Engine Number Location: Stamped on joint face at right corner, adjacent to number 1 cylinder bore.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
6.5 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
9.25 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.95 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.83
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.8
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.23 to 1
Front: Independent torsion bar
Rear: Hotchkiss
Service Type: Hydraulic, self-adjusting drums
Service Front Size: 9 inches
Service Rear Size: 9 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 9 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: C78 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 18 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 2 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting VL41B0a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1-2:Series
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Silver Metallic, Ice Blue Metallic, Blue Fire Metallic, Jamaica Blue Metallic, In Violet Metallic, Rally Red, Lime Green, Ivy Green, Lime Light Metallic, Vitamin C, Burnt Orange Metallic, Deep Burnt Orange Metallic, Sand Pebble Beige, Frosted Teal Metallic, Scorch Red, Sahara Tan Metallic, Burnt Tan Metallic, Tor-Red, Alpine White, Black Velvet, Lemon Twist, Sunfire Yellow, Yellow Gold, Citron Mist Metallic, Citron Gold Metallic
Sedan: Opt
Torque Flite Automatic Transmission: Opt
225 Cu. In. Inline 6 Engine: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Radio: Opt
Front Disc Rear Drum Brakes: Opt

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History of the 1970 Plymouth Valiant

First making its appearance as part of the Valiant lineup introduced in 1960, the 1970 model year brought about key design and performance updates aimed at enhancing fuel efficiency and overall capability. With its restyled front end and grille, plus engine options that delivered respectable speed and durability, it positioned itself well within the compact car market. Despite the fact that some documents about the 1970 model remain elusive, the vehicle's renowned reliability and economical nature shone through during a time characterized by muscle cars and shifting consumer preferences.

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Performance Metrics and Comparisons

The 1970 Valiant, equipped with options like the formidable 340-cubic-inch LA-family V8 engine, boasted a gross rating of 275 horsepower. This not only allowed it to achieve 0 to 60 mph in around 10 to 12 seconds but also demonstrated its practical competence. In a drag race, it might not outshine the likes of the Plymouth Duster—its brother in the Plymouth lineup—but it held its ground well within the compact segment.

For those of you who appreciate reminiscing about power and torque, the Valiant's performance might not scream high-end sports car, but it speaks volumes about what it meant to drive something reliable yet bold. And let's face it, who doesn't love the idea of a car that does all that without breaking the bank?

Pop Culture Presence

This Valiant might not have the same glamor as some of its muscle-bound contemporaries, but it did carve out a niche in pop culture, capturing that 1970s spirit of self-expression and adventure. Advertising from the era often highlighted these themes, and the Valiant's appearances in various films and television shows sealed its pop culture legacy—often appearing as a relatable, everyday hero among a sea of flashy stars.

Famous Owners of the 1970 Plymouth Valiant

One reason why the Valiant continues to capture imaginations could be its association with high-profile personalities. How wild is it that this practical compact car found its way into the garages of renowned figures? It's like discovering your favorite indie band shares records with chart-toppers.

Tom Cruise

Action films and classic cars seem to go hand-in-hand with this Hollywood heavyweight. Tom Cruise, known for his adrenaline-pumping roles, has a known affinity for cars that mirror his on-screen persona—dynamic and ever-reliable.

Kelsey Grammer

Known for his work in television, Grammer appreciates more than just the theatrical flair. His ownership of the Valiant reflects a taste for standout vehicles with understated charm.

David Hasselhoff

Who'd have thought "The Hoff," with his long-running association with talking cars and beach patrols, found a kindred spirit in the solid, dependable Valiant? It's a car that takes no back seat, even to its more famous counterparts.

Justin Timberlake

When he's not performing chart-topping hits, Timberlake has been known to appreciate the finer aspects of Americana, which naturally includes classic cars like the Valiant.

Jay Leno

Leno, with his well-documented collection of automobiles, wouldn't miss out on this gem. His garage tells a story of automotive history, and the Valiant holds its own among more exotic companions.

The Market and Collector's Appeal

For collectors and classic car enthusiasts, vehicles like the Valiant hold a special allure that goes beyond raw performance. It's about reliving a story, one told through car shows and enthusiast clubs that celebrate the nuances of a particular era. The Valiant's auction presence—with prices ranging notably from $20,000 up to a staggering $104,500 for pristine models—speaks to its enduring appeal and collectability. Imagine getting your hands on such a piece of history.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The '70 Valiant? Think boxy, kinda like a brick, but in a good way, you know? It's easily identified by its distinctive rectangular shape, a departure from earlier, more curvy models. Key features include its relatively small size – perfect for zipping around town – and its simple, no-nonsense design. Under the hood, you'd typically find a slant-six engine; although some V8s were offered, they were less common. It was a workhorse, really, a solid car for everyday use. Remember, these were the days before all the fancy electronics; simple, reliable, and practical.

The 1970 Valiant offered a range of engine choices, giving buyers some options. The most common was the trusty slant-six, known for its durability – it'll run forever, so they say! But if you wanted a bit more oomph, you could opt for a V8. Now, finding one with a V8 is like finding a four-leaf clover; they're not as common. The exact horsepower and torque specs varied depending on the specific engine configuration, so checking those details is crucial before you make any decisions. It's all about doing your homework, you know?

Generally, you'd find either a three-speed manual or a three-speed automatic transmission in a '70 Valiant. A column-shifted automatic was common in those days, and, let me tell you, they felt a bit different to drive than what we're used to these days! The manual, while basic, was tough as nails – you really felt connected to the car. Think of it like this: the automatic was the comfy armchair; the manual was the trusty workhorse.

Finding a well-preserved 1970 Valiant can be a bit of a treasure hunt. They're not exactly flooding the market these days. That said, condition plays a huge role in their value; a pristine example will command a higher price than a car needing a complete restoration – you probably know that. Values vary widely depending on several factors – like the condition, options, originality, and where you are! So you'll need to check resources like classic car price guides and auction results to get a better sense of the current market value. A bit of detective work goes a long way in getting a good deal!

Like any classic car, the '70 Valiant has its quirks. Rust is a big one, especially in areas that get a fair amount of snow and salt. The electrical system can also be somewhat finicky; sometimes a little bit of TLC can go a long way. The brakes, transmission, and suspension might also require attention depending on the car’s history and how well it's been maintained. But these are issues that any experienced mechanic can handle. It's all just part of owning a classic car; it's kind of the charm!

Finding parts for a '70 Valiant is easier than you might think. There are numerous online retailers, classic car parts specialists, and even enthusiast clubs dedicated to the Valiant that can help you out. Don't be afraid to put your networking skills to work as well! You'd be surprised what you can find through online forums and local car shows; you never know what treasures you can unearth.