1970 Plymouth Road Runner
This 1970 Plymouth Road Runner exudes the essence of Mopar muscle. Part of the golden era that delivered big power in an affordable package, the iconic Road Runner badge graced Plymouth’s budget-minded performer.
The standard mill Road Runner displaced 383 CI, packing 335 horses thanks to hot internals like windage trays and wilder cams. Mated to a heavy-duty A833 4-speed manual, drivers could pick gears with the one-year-only pistol-grip shifter. For extra traction, the 8 3/4” rear axle housed a 3.55:1 Sure Grip differential along with superior suspension components.
For buyers craving more grunt, options ranged from the Six Barrel 440 pushing 390 horses to the almighty 426 Hemi with 425 supercar-slaying stallions. Even in 335 HP trim, performance was brutal, with 60 mph arriving in just over 7 seconds en route to low 15-second quarter mile sprints. Handling gained from stouter sway bars and torsion bars taming those evocative torsion bars up front. Disc brakes now reined in the pace.
This In-Violet example brings extra allure via details like white bucket seats and Air Grabber hood. The iconic scoop gulps wind on command, necessitating those skyward-aimed triple wipers. Out back, a wing casts shade over the unique displacement tag, hinting at the 200 mph potential showcased by sibling Superbird on NASCAR ovals thanks to its epic aero modifications.
The 1970 redesign updated the Road Runner’s minimalist styling with a fresh face and rump. As musclemania reached its zenith, Plymouth took the formula to the max with the radical, winged Superbird built expressly for NASCAR glory.
Yet despite competition credentials putting it on par with European exotics, this beloved Mopar stayed true to its budget-priced roots right down to the cartoon Road Runner hood decal – licensed from Warner Bros. Studios.
Today this numbers-matching example retains its period charm thanks to a painstaking rotisserie restoration. Built to be a bare-bones burner, it now stands out as the pinnacle of affordable American performance. A time capsule ready to relay the muscle car experience in its purest form – complete with vintage vibe and neck-snapping acceleration.
Credit: Mecum
