Plymouth Road Runner 1971

Gateway Classic Cars of Charlotte is proud to digitally present this 1971 Plymouth Road Runner.

The Plymouth Road Runner is one of the great marketing stories of the Motor City car biz. Muscle cars had hit the mainstream by the end of the 1960s, which meant rising costs for enthusiasts across the board as automakers did all they could to cash in on the desire for big engines in moderately-sized coupes and convertibles. Only some customers out there simultaneously had the budget for both luxury and speed. Chrysler forged ahead with a low-buck version of its popular high-performance formula, creating a golden-era muscle car legend almost by accident. However, the Plymouth Road Runner was more than a clever marketing concept. It was an exceptional effort that cut right to the hearts of buyers who dreamed of a big block V8 fix and a pure driving package that quickly expanded well beyond its intended audience of frugal speed fans. By 1971 the muscle car era was winding down, but Plymouth was still in the game with a wholly redesigned Road Runner with a one-inch shorter wheelbase and swoopy new sheet metal.

After its painstakingly thorough restoration, this Road Runner again looks as good as it did while sitting in the showroom over 50 years ago. Restored to include factory-style overspray and everything it would have rolled out of production when assembled. Those long fenders and quarter panels are covered with bright red paint that shines so good it still looks wet. The black vinyl interior has been restored with the same detail and care as the rest of this car. Underneath the functioning “Air Grabber” hood scoop lies the legendary 383 Chrysler V8. A smooth-shifting automatic transmission delivers all that V8 power to the 3.23:1 rear differential and finally makes its way to period-correct bias ply tires. Imagine yourself driving through town in this beautiful car and honking at your friends. Beep Beep!!