A Barra-Powered Valiant: Warick Meldrum's Eight-Second Machine
Warick Meldrum has developed an eight-second, turbo Barra-powered VF Valiant Regal, a vehicle known for its controversial engine swap among Mopar enthusiasts. The project involved installing a Ford Barra engine into a Valiant, diverging from the brand's original Mopar powertrains.
Meldrum, a licensed mechanic and auto electrician, has a history of unconventional engine swaps, including a Barra-powered VP Commodore and a 1967 Camaro with a Barra engine.
His self-sufficient approach to car building allows for budget-friendly projects, estimating the Barra Valiant build cost at approximately $35,000.
The Build's Genesis and Core Components
The VF Regal was acquired with a sound body and interior, prompting a three-month build to prepare it for Drag Challenge 2019. The engine, initially a naturally aspirated unit, underwent significant modifications. It was upgraded with Spool Drag Pro I-beam conrods and Carrillo pistons, along with Crow valve springs.
For fuel delivery, Bosch 2200cc injectors, a Turbosmart fuel pressure regulator, and three Bosch 044-style pumps were installed. Induction was managed by a Pulsar 83/85 turbo with a 6boost manifold, and a Jonny Tig intercooler controlled intake temperatures. A Haltech Elite Pro Plug-In Barra ECU precisely controlled the entire system.
Chassis and Drivetrain Integration
Extensive conversion work was crucial to integrate the new powertrain. Modifications included adapting the torsion bar crossmember for the TH400 transmission, and adjusting the K-member and sump to accommodate the Barra engine and steering rack. Tuff Mounts engine mounts were incorporated, alongside a modified Holden radiator fitted with Falcon thermo fans.
The rear end featured a fabricated nine-inch with a full-spool Strange nodular-iron centre and 3.23:1 gears.
This robust setup was complemented by homemade traction bars on stock leaf springs and adjustable shocks upfront.
Debut and Performance Milestones
At Drag Challenge 2019, the Valiant quickly proved its capabilities on the strip. It achieved a 9.81-second quarter-mile pass at 143 mph, demonstrating immediate potential. This impressive time further improved to 9.35 seconds at 145 mph on the final day of the event.
Evolution and Record Runs
In 2023, following a transmission failure, the car underwent a comprehensive repaint and refresh. A new TH400 transmission was expertly installed by TK Performance Transmissions. A driveshaft vibration had unfortunately caused crankshaft issues, necessitating a last-minute engine replacement just a week before Drag Challenge 2023. Meldrum rapidly built a new NA motor, achieving an impressive 8.8-second pass even before the event.
He finished second in the Speed Pro Six-Cylinder class with a best of 8.74 seconds at 154 mph.
The Valiant, weighing approximately 3000 lbs in race trim, has since achieved a 1.26-second 60-foot time and a personal best quarter-mile pass of 8.62 seconds at 157 mph. However, recent upgrades did not immediately result in faster times at Drag Challenge 2025.
Future Aspirations
Meldrum's ambitions for the Barra Valiant continue to push the boundaries of its performance. He aims to achieve a seven-second quarter-mile pass, a formidable goal that may involve future head porting and further turbo upgrades.