1971 Plymouth Road Runner Hardtop Coupe

Joining the Plymouth lineup for 1968, the Road Runner was typical of the muscle car era - big V8 power in a relatively lightweight (Belvedere sedan) chassis. The muscle car power-to-weight formula was solidly established by that time, but buyers also responded to the name, the bargain price (from $2,896), and the Road Runner graphics, commemorating the Warner Brothers cartoon character. The response was far beyond all expectations. Chrysler Corporation product planners anticipated a very modest 2,500 sales, and were agreeably astonished when 44,599 rolled out of showrooms in1 968, and 84,420 in 1969.

The validity of the idea wasn't lost on the Dodge division, which launched its own version, called the Super Bee. By 1971 the Road Runner had been restyled, with a widened (by 3.0 inches) rear track; flush door handles and ventless side glass (for improved aerodynamics); and a functional hood scoop that popped up at the touch of a button. Chrysler's formidable 426 cubic-inch Hemi and 440 cubic-inch V8s still topped the engine options, but the insurance industry had cracked down on muscle cars with hefty premiums, putting a serious crimp in sales. For the Road Runner, the total was a dismal 14,128, and 1971 marked the last year for the 426 and 440 engine options.

This Curious Yellow 1971 is propelled by the 440 V8. Fed by six two-throat carburetors (Dodge called the combo the 440 Six Pack) it was rated for 385 horsepower at 4700 RPM and 490 pound-feet of torque at 3200.