We’ve seen a few classics recently cross our desks at Barn Finds, where owners have invested heavily in their restorations. This 1971 Plymouth Road Runner perfectly demonstrates that trend, with its owner spending a cool $90,000 to bring it to its stunning best. It appears to need nothing, and a meticulous buyer could reverse the few minor changes to return the car to its factory form in a home workshop. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Road Runner listed here on eBay in Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania. The seller set their BIN at $62,985 with the option to make an offer.
Plymouth launched its Second Generation Road Runner in 1971, adopting “fuselage” styling that had become the defining feature of other Chrysler marques. I’ve never found the look as attractive as its predecessor, though I admit I am growing more fond of it over time. This Road Runner rolled off the line that year, with the seller indicating it had recently undergone a $90,000 restoration. The results justified the effort and expense because the Formal Black paint possesses a depth of color and shine you could almost walk into. The image gallery reveals one minor paint defect, but I don’t believe it is a deal-breaker. The panels are laser-straight, with the tight, consistent gaps suggesting the builder focused on fine details to achieve a high-end result. Unsurprisingly, there is no rust that could spoil the ownership experience. The spotless trim and tinted glass reflect the consistent project approach, and the Rallye wheels are in as-new condition.
As in the previous year, Plymouth offered its 383ci V8 as the Road Runner’s entry-level motor in 1971. It had lost some power and torque due to a reduced compression ratio, but still placed 300hp and 410 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. This car sends that power to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, with power steering and power brakes lightening the driver’s load. The recent restoration included refurbishing the suspension and steering and fitting new tires to the Rallye wheels. Potential buyers can consider the Road Runner a turnkey proposition that runs and drives extremely well. The deal includes the original Owner’s Manual, Broadcast Sheet, 1973 Sales Slip, and the restoration receipts.
If this Road Runner’s exterior brings a smile to your dial, the interior should broaden that grin. Trimmed in Blue vinyl, the build included a complete refurbishment that leaves it looking factory-fresh. There are aftermarket additions, including a column-mounted tachometer, extra gauges, and a modern CD stereo. However, the installer didn’t cut anything to fit these items, so removal to achieve a faithful look would be pretty easy. The upholstered surfaces are in as-new condition, as is every other aspect of the Plymouth’s interior. One area sometimes ignored is the trunk, but this car’s has received plenty of TLC. With a new mat, spare wheel cover, and new cardboard, as it featured when it left the factory, it appears no aspect of this Road Runner will embarrass the buyer at a show or a Cars & Coffee.
This 1971 Plymouth Road Runner is a stunning classic, and although I admit I’m not a fan of “fuselage” styling, I admire how beautifully it presents. It emerged at a moment in time when muscle cars were on the outer, courtesy of tighter emission regulations and skyrocketing insurance costs. The automotive industry sat perched on the precipice, and cars like this Road Runner would become a fond memory in a few years as the Malaise Era reached its peak. The owner spent $90,000 creating this classic, and someone can become its new owner for a fraction of that figure. Is that enough to tempt you?
Wow! That’s a beautiful machine. I too liked the previous design but this a stand alone car itself that gets the chair and beer look at award.
One look at the picture of the fender tag tells you the “comprehensive restoration” was anything but. Beautiful car but it’s totally let down by the very shabby under hood “restoration” work.