1972: Polishing the Breed
Left to right: Valiant II 3.5 Prime, Valiant II V8 5.0 Supersprint, and Vanguard II V8 5.0.
By 1972, most of Hampton’s model range had received minor trim and equipment upgrades. For the Valiant, however, there were more significant changes under the skin, with the Prime’s standard engine now a 3.5L I6 and a Supersprint package (with long-tube headers, high-flow intake and a more aggressive cam profile) being optional on the flagship V8 Sprint.
As for the Vanguard II, it was launched in 1969 with a choice of six- or eight-cylinder engines, but by 1972 only the 5.0L V8 remained. Detuned to provide 200 horsepower instead of 270 (as it did in the Supersprint trims of the Peregrine and Valiant II), it nevertheless provided a welcome boost in performance. Boasting fully independent rear suspension and a novel hydropneumatic system (both company firsts), and a high-end interior with an 8-track player, it was now Hampton’s most advanced and luxurious car to date.