The Plymouth Road Runner, a bare bones, affordable alternative to the GTX introduced in 1968, became an immediate sensation and continued its run as a standalone nameplate until 1975. Despite its relative commonality compared to other Mopars of the era, it has evolved into a highly sought-after classic.
The golden-era versions (1968-1971), renowned for their high compression V8 engines, naturally command the most attention. While the 426 HEMI and 440 Six-Barrel cars are six-figure investments, examples equipped with the entry-level 383 cubic inch V8 remain relatively affordable.
If you’re seeking a first-generation Road Runner without breaking the $200,000 bank, this 1970 Lemon Twist hardtop, priced at $87,998, could be the perfect addition to your collection. While not inexpensive, this Road Runner boasts several desirable features.
The eye-catching Lemon Twist paint, believed to be original, maintains its luster despite over five decades of wear. Previous owners may have made minor touch-ups to preserve its freshness, but the majority of the paint is confirmed to be original.
This Road Runner deviates from the typical side stripe design, opting for a cleaner look with only the Road Runner cartoons on the front fenders. The “poverty hubcaps” further enhance the car’s sleeper-like appearance, although the Lemon Twist paint belies its understated nature.
Chrysler’s Lemon Twist, a vibrant and iconic color, made its debut in 1970 and continued to be offered through 1973. Known as Top Banana on Dodge models, this high-impact hue remains one of the longest running colors in Chrysler’s history.
This particular Road Runner, with its original Lemon Twist paint and nearly flawless interior, is a testament to its well-preserved condition. The low mileage of 39,219 miles indicates that this car has spent most of its life in a garage, rarely seeing the open road.
The original owner held onto the car for an impressive 43 years, and it has remained within the same family for the past four years. Under the hood, the numbers matching the 383 cubic inch V8 engine and original (but replaced) carburetor further solidify this Road Runner’s status as a time capsule.
