1971 Plymouth Road Runner

Description

Plymouth completely redesigned the successful Road Runner series for 1971 with a handsome “fuselage” theme. The coupes and hardtops were now quite different from the more conventional sedans and wagons. The Road Runner featured a low recessed grille surrounded by a chrome loop bumper, flared fenders, and a high trunk. 1971 Plymouth Road Runners could be recognized by the “ladder stripe” running down the C-pillars.

The new Road Runner Hardtop was shorter, but the wheelbase was longer. Performance was being eroded by insurance rates and emissions issues, and this would be the final year for the high-powered engines with the large 383 cu-in with a four-barrel carburetor featuring as the standard engine option. The standard transmission was a heavy-duty three-speed manual, though a four-speed, as this example features, could be added for $206. Finally, Plymouth offered the Road Runner in 18 “high impact” colors including the iconic In-Violet Metallic that this well-restored example features.

Highlights

• Recently completed (August 2023) restoration by High-Octane Restorations 

• Originally equipped as a 383 cu-in four-barrel carbureted V8, now featuring a 383 cu-in four-barrel carbureted V8 from a 1969 Plymouth

• The engine restoration includes:

  • New rings

  • New bearings

  • A new timing chain

  • A purple shaft cam and new lifters

  • Freshened heads

  • New flywheel

• Long tube header exhaust with a 2 ½ inch mandrel bent set of duals with turndowns at the rear

• Flowmaster “Super” 44 Series mufflers offer a deep, rich tone

• Equipped with a pistol grip shifted four-speed manual transmission that has been freshened up as well with a new Hayes clutch, pressure plate, and throwout bearing

• The shift linkage, brackets, shifter boot, and pistol grip shifter are all brand new

• Restored in In-Violet Metallic over a Black upholstered interior with optional front bucket seats

• Subtly customized during restoration with shaved marker lights for a more modern look

• “Beep-Beep” horn

Features

• The driveshaft was inspected and balanced with new U joints

• The rear has a freshly rebuilt 8 ¾ third member with a sure-grip 3:55 gears and new wheel bearings

• The brakes have been upgraded to front power discs and 11 inch rear drum brakes at the rear

• Many new components were installed during restoration including wheel cylinders, brake pads and shoes, rubber lines, proportioning valve, and calipers

• Recessed door handles

• Ventless side glass for a smooth look

• Concave front grille

• Performance hood

• “High level” ventilation

• Keyless (push button) door locking

• Heavy duty suspension

• Color-keyed deep pile carpeting

• Rallye instrument cluster

• Supplementary “Pro Tach” tachometer 

• Road Runner trim and ornamentation

Known Imperfections

• This Plymouth Road Runner is presented as a well-restored and lightly modified example and is said to be free from any substantial imperfections

Included

• Trunk-mounted spare tire and jack

• Restoration and maintenance paperwork

Ownership History

Originally built as a 383 cu-in four-barrel example, this 1971 Plymouth Road Runner features a recent restoration completed in August 2023 by High-Octane Restorations of Savannah, Georgia.