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.
If it’s such a high-dollar restoration, why is the hood fit so poor?
and why not buy a new pie plate ,what is with the GM master cylinder
Great looking Mopar. Blue interior ?? looks a little strange with a black car ????
My first new car was a 71 Runner. Special order to be the GM s demo. Wfe vetoed it because of 4spd. Did not have the stripe across the roof. Walnut in color. Loved that car. Wife needed a car pool car. Traded it for a 75 Runner. Biggest mistake of my life other than Wife number 1.
I have noticed on this site, many commentors tell of more then one spouse. I’m not sure what to make of that. Wonder if the sale of this car is from an ultimatum by a wife? Having an expensive hobby is fine, but you need to remember if married you are in a partnership and big purchases need to be a team choice, not a singular one.
That’s what I was thinking too but if my casual poking around the internet is correct, that’s a factory combo. I’m not 100% but I think this is correct.
TX9=Black
M6B5= Medium class, bucket seats, blue interior.
Flat head screws holding data plate? What?! Better get all reciepts.
Yeah, I saw that too. The seller is calling this a $90k restoration???? It’s a nice car, but the engine compartment looks like something I would expect, on a daily driver. Someone got fleeced.
Always loved these. Great look with that loop bumper and taillights tucked in the rear. I like the tank tracks across the roof, too.
How loaded do you hafta be to be able to take a $30,000ish loss like that?
Seems the idea would be to at the very least break even.
I know breaking even rarely happens but it’s always baffled me how people can take such big hits!
Once the money is spent, it’s gone, profit or loss is irrelevant. This is a dealer selling the car, whoever paid to restore this car is already out of the picture. Losing money sucks, but why should it be assumed whoever restored it did it to make a profit. If they did it because they always wanted a black 4spd 1971 Road Runner, I hope they drove it and enjoyed it.
Just because you are going to lose money on the sale is not reason to keep it until the end of time.
Steve R
Sweet looking Coke Bottle styling Road Runner.
When a claimed $90,000 restoration has been done, it’s only fair to pick a few nits. Mine is this: When that kind of money was spent, they should have put the proper 1971 rallye wheel centers on it in place of the 1970 centers that are on it.
I’m not so picky, and factory in those days wasn’t exactly perfect. Being a grand son of a Chrysler Executive I know fit and finish were never perfect.
Also for those who think the seller is crazy losing money, I know many people who lose $$ because
of reasons that are personal. Needing cash for
Medical, taxes, housing, emergencies.
So when you look at current prices of cars and trucks. The price for a very well running piece of history that will bring pleasure for years. How much is too much ? When I got my license in 1968, no one ever asked me if the chalk marks were still on the rear end or does the equipment match the plates. I’ve owned 25 or so muscle cars and only collectors care about that. I’m starting to think this site is made up of judges and perfectionist. How much fun do you have dusting off your perfect complete original versus
Getting out and enjoying the car.
Nailed it, Patrick.