From the Classifieds: 1977 Chrysler Drifter

The archives of unique Australian car models are eclectic and surprisingly large. The sad thing is that eventually many of these cars that few people ever got to see will disappear into history without leaving a trace.

Only time will tell whether that’s in store for the now-rare version of the CL-series Chrysler Valiant ute and panel van – shown here in ‘coupe utility’ form – that flared up briefly between 1977 and 1978.

Dubbed the Chrysler Drifter by the company when it was launched in April 1977, the ‘lifestyle’ variant was less a specific model than an option pack and reflected the then-popular trend of producing surfing-culture versions of sedan-based workhorse vehicles.

In a way, the showcase ute/vans such as the Chrysler Drifter, Holden Sandman and Ford Surferoo from the 1970s (often with artistic murals and bordello interiors) were the progenitors of the tough trucks – Ford Ranger Raptor, Toyota HiLux Rugged X and Nissan Navara PRO-4X Warrior – we are bombarded with today.

The Chrysler Drifter was given the usual cosmetic treatment: decals, colourful side stripes dominating the flanks, a Charger grille, dual quartz-halogen headlights, colour-coded bumpers, styled steel wheels with radial-ply tyres and a minimally jazzed-up, bench-seated cabin with – also straight from the Charger – a three-spoke ‘sports’ steering wheel.

The piece de resistance was the 5.2-litre V8 which was available as an option over the 4.3-litre HEMI six-cylinder engine and could be hooked up to either a three-speed auto or a four-speed manual gearbox.

Because it was only on sale for a year, the chances of seeing a Chrysler Drifter on the road today are pretty slim. And that’s a pity, because the sexed-up ute/panel van is a genuine example of what the Australian motoring industry was up to during the 1970s.

The green, auto V8 Drifter ute shown here that features among current listings on carsales is available through a north-western Sydney dealer.

Tagged at $79,990 before government charges, it is registered until March 2022.

The Chrysler Drifter (it didn’t wear any Valiant badges) is claimed to have been fully restored and to have covered only 75,455km.

The Chrysler Drifter (it didn’t wear any Valiant badges) is claimed to have been fully restored and to have covered only 75,455km.

Sitting high on its suspension and presenting with high-gloss paintwork, pristine panels and unblemished chrome brightwork, it certainly looks the part.

It appears pretty close to how it would have looked when it rolled out of the showroom in early 1977.

Hey, Drifter!

Take a closer look at this 1977 Chrysler Drifter for sale on carsales