Rare Air: 1968 Plymouth Road Runner

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Some paint shades are conservative and subtle, but I’m pretty sure those words have never been used to describe Sub Lime. That is the color cloaking the exterior of this immaculate 1968 Plymouth Road Runner. It presents superbly, delivers performance befitting an iconic muscle car, and occupants will feel the benefit of factory air conditioning. This classic needs nothing except a new home. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this Plymouth listed here on eBay in Salina, Kansas. The seller set their BIN at $59,900, and it appears they are firm on that figure.

By 1968, muscle cars remained desirable high-performance vehicles, but shifting buyer tastes motivated manufacturers to add extra equipment and creature comforts. That raised sticker prices, providing the ideal environment for Plymouth to unveil the Road Runner. Produced to complement the GTX, it offered buyers equivalent performance but with a more spartan motoring experience at a lower sticker price. This first-year example makes a bold visual statement in Sub Lime. The seller describes the Road Runner as restored, and I beg to differ. I’ve checked Plymouth’s color charts, and they indicate that this paint shade didn’t become available until 1970. Such a profound change leads me to describe this classic as refurbished. Beyond that point, there is little about this gem deserving criticism. The paint has a mirror-like sheen, covering laser-straight panels. When it comes to surfaces to eat your lunch on, the underside shots confirm that the floors aren’t a bad place to start. The glass and trim are in as-new condition, and the spotless Magnum 500 wheels are wrapped in Goodyear Redline tires.

Lifting this Road Runner’s hood reveals a 383ci V8. That year’s Plymouth Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 335hp and 425 ft/lbs, both figures more than respectable for what was the badge’s entry-level motor. A bulletproof A-727 TorqueFlite transmission sends power to the rear wheels, and this Plymouth also features power steering and power brakes. The seller encourages in-person inspections, and I would readily accept the invitation to answer a few crucial questions. They describe the engine as date-correct but don’t use the term “numbers-matching”. Some readers may consider that of little consequence. Still, the reality is that mechanically original classics typically represent better long-term investment prospects than identical cars carrying non-original mechanical components. Since this Road Runner appears to be fresh from its refurbishment, that factor, along with the price, leads me to believe it is a turnkey proposition ready for summer fun.

Considering this Plymouth’s recent history, it is unsurprising to discover that its interior is presented in a factory-fresh state. The Black vinyl upholstery is spotless, and there is no carpet wear. The dash and pad are immaculate, the headliner is perfect, and there is no wheel wear. Plymouth emphasized the Road Runner’s affordability by limiting standard equipment. However, this car features a factory radio and air conditioning. The seller emphasizes the rarity of A/C, but I’m unsure whether that claim is accurate.

This 1968 Plymouth Road Runner undoubtedly possesses the “wow” factor and can’t help but turn heads and draw crowds. I have researched the subject, but have found no credible information confirming how many buyers ordered a ’68 Road Runner with air conditioning. I am disappointed that the builder elected to apply a non-original color, but that is a personal preference. It appears to need nothing, and its specifications remain true to the muscle car philosophy. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you to pursue this Plymouth further?

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Comments

  1. Stan StanMember

    Interesting color choice. Ready to drive. 👍 🏁

    Like 1
  2. bobhess bobhessMember

    That’s a nice car. I always liked the fun colors as it’s something that we need today to brighten up our roads and combat the white,gray, black syndrome on our roads today.

    Like 0

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