This 1971 Plymouth Road Runner is a twice-stalled project needing someone to return it to its former glory. Don’t be fooled by its tired appearance, because it is rock-solid below the surface. Adding to its appeal is a previous owner’s decision to upgrade the V8 under the hood. The time has come for the Road Runner to find a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Holmen, Wisconsin. Bidding has reached $5,102, which is below the reserve.

Plymouth’s Second Generation Road Runner landed on showroom floors for the 1971 model year. The styling was radically different from its predecessor, with Plymouth following Chrysler’s overall move towards what became known as the “fuselage” look. The Road Runner rode on a shorter wheelbase, but the width and curb weight both increased. The original owner ordered this first-year example in dazzling Sassy Grass Green, and there is plenty of evidence of that shade in various locations. It appears that the restoration stalled when the car was in the care of its previous owner, and it has essentially proceeded no further since the seller became its custodian. The driver’s side rear quarter panel has been cut away, and while a new one sits in place, it needs to be welded and finished. The rest of the exterior appears free from problems, and the seller indicates that the Plymouth is equally solid below the surface. If that proves accurate, this could be a relatively straightforward project candidate. Most of the trim is intact, and the glass looks good.

Decoding the VIN confirms that this Road Runner left the factory powered by that 383ci V8 producing 300hp. That is largely irrelevant because the engine bay now houses a 440 of 1974 vintage. Its specifications are unclear, with the rest of the major mechanical components including a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes. This Plymouth doesn’t run or drive, and the health of the engine is unclear. However, it turns freely, meaning that a mechanical revival may be within reach once the winning bidder parks the Road Runner in their garage.

The seller’s interior shots seem to suggest that this Road Runner’s interior is essentially complete. A deep clean would be the first port of call in its revival, and it appears that many of the upholstered pieces might be okay if the winning bidder’s plans revolve around driver-grade build. There will still be a list of parts required, including a dashpad, a carpet set, and a rear parcel tray. I also noticed a couple of small items that have gone AWOL, but there is a good chance that the buyer won’t face a complete retrim that would significantly increase the overall restoration cost.

Taste is subjective, which is demonstrated in the classic world when the focus turns to vehicle styling. I admit that the “fuselage” styling adopted by Plymouth for its Second Generation Road Runner doesn’t appeal to me as much as its predecessor. Still, I respect your opinion if it differs from mine. However, as a project candidate, there is much to like about this 1971 Road Runner. The listing statistics seem to support my view, but do you like this Plymouth enough to pursue it further?