Midstate Mopars highlight – 1977 Valiant CL Charger 770

For this year’s 18th edition of Midstate Mopars, the Central Victorian Chrysler Club Inc. host club were faced with the wettest weather they’ve ever encountered. Rain in Bendigo over both days of this annual event proved to be a challenge for all involved. Despite this, there was a healthy turnout for the cruise to Castlemaine, while more than 150 cars, including vehicles from interstate, made the trek to Bendigo’s Town Hall precinct for the show ‘n’ shine.

Many outstanding vehicles braved the conditions, with this 1977 CL Charger 770 amongst the strong contingent of Aussie Chargers that were present for the show ‘n’ shine.

Launched in August, 1971, the Charger generated massive interest. Pre-launch hype saw Chrysler double their planned daily production, but even this wasn’t enough. Demand outstripped supply, leading daily output to be almost doubled again. At its peak, the stylish fastback coupe accounted for 50 per cent of all Valiant production.

By 1977, all that interest had melted away and the Charger was on its last legs. The CL would be the end of the line, with the final units built in June, 1978. No Charger was offered on the CM Series that followed.

What had started with four model variants in the initial VH Series – Charger, Charger XL, Charger R/T and Charger 770 – had been cut back to just the 770 for the CL Series, of which 1,815 units would be built. This was the lowest total across four series of Charger production and included 146 ‘Drifter’ editions that added cosmetic elements from the Drifter panel van.

Engine options were cut for the CL Series, too, with the Hemi 215 six and 360 V8 discontinued, leaving buyers with the choice of 245 Hemi (in high and low compression), 265 Hemi and 318 V8. Transmission choices were three- and four-speed manuals, and a three-speed automatic. 

What was under the bonnet of the car featured wasn’t captured on the day, but the engine appears to be a Hemi six. The paint is a bit of a mystery, too. While Chargers were offered with some pretty wild colours in period (Hemi Orange, Go Green, Magenta, etc.), the ‘Plum Crazy’ purple that this car’s paint appears closest to was only available on the VJ Series. The stripe on the front guard is a non-standard touch, too. The alloy wheels are a period correct feature, though, and were available throughout Charger production.

Of the many Chargers displayed at this year’s Midstate Mopars show ‘n’ shine, including stock and modified cars, plus a healthy number of VH Series examples, the rarity of the CL Series and this one’s unusual colour made it stand out.

To see JUST CARS’ report from the 2025 Midstate Mopars, click HERE.