Tackling somebody’s unfinished project build can be daunting, but some find the challenge irresistible. That is the situation with this 1973 Plymouth Road Runner, with the photos suggesting it will take a new owner more time than money to return this classic to its rightful place on our roads. Potential buyers have unanswered questions to consider, but if taken at face value, this Plymouth shows promise. It is listed here on eBay in Beverley Hills, California. The seller’s BIN is $19,750, with the option to make an offer. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder PRA4SNW for spotting this promising Plymouth project.
The history of this Road Runner is unclear, but the photos suggest it is a stalled build project. The panels wear what appears to be Code J5 Lime Light, a shade that last graced a Plymouth in 1970. The paint consistency looks excellent across the car, suggesting the project may have only recently stalled. There are no flaws or defects, with the contrasting Black stripes looking crisp and clean. The panels are as straight as an arrow, while rust isn’t a consideration. The exterior is clean, and the underside shots reveal nothing but the occasional spot of surface corrosion. The floors and rails, known weak spots, appear rock-solid. The trim is in good order, as is the glass. The existing wheel and tire package adds a touch of menace, although some people might prefer a touch of bling. Since the paint isn’t an original shade, changing the wheels will not detract from any impression of originality.
This Plymouth’s interior is a mixed bag, but someone has started to whip it into shape. The existing Black upholstered surfaces look new but are missing items like the door trims and shifter handle. These aren’t visible in the supplied photos, suggesting the new owner will be compiling a shopping list for this beauty. The dash is okay, although the vinyl edging on the pad is lifting where it wraps behind the gauge fascia. The radio and the console lid are missing, and some painted surfaces, like the glove compartment door, exhibit light damage. Apart from those items I’ve identified requiring replacement, addressing the other shortcomings are minor details the new owner could handle in their home workshop.
The notable absence of some plumbing and electrical items, along with a master cylinder, are sure signs this Plymouth doesn’t run or drive. Its engine bay houses a 340ci V8 that should eventually send 240hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission. With emission regulations making themselves felt, the ¼-mile ET of 16 seconds is unsurprising. This aspect of the Road Runner raises the biggest and potentially most expensive questions. The state of the mechanical components is unknown, and since the car doesn’t run, spending money on this classic in such circumstances is a calculated risk. Some potential buyers might roll the dice, but I respect those who choose not to. This motor wears aftermarket headers, but there is no exhaust. The seller includes most peripheral components required to coax this classic to life, along with the factory exhaust manifolds for those seeking originality. The photos reveal a collection of parts like new fuel and brake lines awaiting installation, which should be pretty straightforward tasks.
When enthusiasts consider spending their hard-earned cash on a classic, caution is always advisable. It is easy to blunder forward blindly, which is how some have bitten off more than they can choose. This seller is reputable, and it seems they are pretty approachable if someone is genuinely interested in cars like this 1973 Plymouth Road Runner. Compiling a list of questions would be an excellent starting point while arranging an in-person inspection would be the next logical step. If everything checks out, making a respectable offer could see this classic heading to a new home. There are unknown factors at play, including the question of this Plymouth’s mechanical health. However, the indications are that it would take more time than money for this classic’s V8 to roar back to life, ready to hit the roads again. Every purchase involves an element of risk, but are you willing to roll the dice with this Road Runner?
Love the colors!
I hope this thing revs good as no driveshaft present.
I would definitely check out in person if closer to get the full review of what’s missing and original.
This is a fave body style of mine.
What about the large openings in the inner fenders, isn’t that where the shocks upper mounts are? It appears to have shocks fitted in the under side photos. Maybe I’m wrong about the upper shock mounting points for B bodys. Looks like a new gas tank, but only one strap holding it up. I know it’s a “project “” but? Also the seller, BHCC, is notoriously shady, just saying. Buyers beware.
Guess I was mistaken about the upper shock mounts. I searched for some underwood pics, seems like it’s just missing some snap on covers for the openings in the inner fenders. Also, I have no personal experience with BHCC, just repeating what I’ve read elsewhere. Didn’t mean to disparage the place.
There are a thousand pics on the internet they could have referenced that would have helped them apply the stripes correctly.
Yes, you are correct if you’re thinking a few things aren’t right with this RR. I had this car once apon a time. With a bit of research I’m thinking a guy could negotiate a lower price.
The first thing I noticed the engine is painted a Ford blue. I would check the numbers on the engine to make sure it’s a 340 not a 318. Look at the vin number to see what it is. I wish the seller would of taken a picture of it. The dash and the steering wheel shows is could be a Road Runner. I have seen many Plymouth satellites disguised as a roadrunner which is the same vehicle but there are a lot of things different about both of them. This vehicle has potential to be great looking after all fixed up but many parts are missing. I seen they have parts for this but it’s not everything I’m looking for that is missing. The body looks great as long as there’s no Bondo all over the place. I would ask for a lot less basically this is a rolling car right now until everything’s put together. Good luck to anyone who purchased it. 🐻🇺🇸
To me, this looks like someone’s dragster which is now being returned to street duty. That’s not to say its bad, its just one which at some point may have had all of its unnecessary parts removed – and misplaced. It looks to be an aftermarket hood and the rear axle just doesn’t look like it started life under that car. The motor is nowhere near as clean on the bottom as it is on the top. Nor is it as clean as the surrounding chassis leading me to wonder if there was originally another motor in place on its runs down Pomona. But those headers are a work of art. With proper pipes and mufflers this thing would make wonderful noises.
Pretty car with a lot of questions to be answered.
It is a BHCC car, so low expectations should be normal.
But, if you’re a good at the mechanical stuff and have some time and extra $$, you will be starting with a decent body structure – at least it would appear.
I would offer $8000. since not original. Would drop a 426 Hemi with a stick and put 4 wheel disc brakes.