The Plymouth Road Runner, a legendary muscle car introduced in 1968, experienced a meteoric rise in popularity, peaking in 1969 with over 80,000 units sold. While this makes it the most common year for the Road Runner, certain configurations, like the convertible and high-performance engine options, are far rarer.
One such coveted example is the HEMI Road Runner, a powerful machine with a limited production of just 787 units. Tony Masiello, a long time enthusiast, fulfilled his dream of owning a HEMI Road Runner after a decade-long search.
This particular Sunfire Yellow car, with its original sheet metal and pristine condition, is a testament to its storied past and Arizona heritage. Its black interior, equipped with desirable options like bucket seats, a console, and a tachometer, adds to its allure. A unique touch is the glove box signature of NASCAR legend Richard Petty, further enhancing the car’s historical significance.
Richard Petty, the iconic figure of NASCAR, had a deep-rooted connection with Mopar. While he began his racing journey with Oldsmobile, he soon switched to Plymouth in 1959, forming a lasting partnership. This association continued until early 1969, with a brief interlude with Ford.
However, Petty returned to Plymouth in 1970 and stayed until 1972, when he transitioned to Dodge. Over nearly two decades, Petty’s dominance in Mopar-powered cars was undeniable, securing six of his seven championships and five Daytona 500 victories. Owning a HEMI rig with his autograph is a testament to this legendary era.
The HEMI V8, a marvel of engineering, was produced in limited numbers. Of the 787 hardtop examples, only 187 were equipped with an automatic transmission, making this particular car exceptionally rare. Its Sunfire Yellow paint further adds to its exclusivity, though precise production figures remain uncertain without a detailed report.
Despite its rarity, this Mopar is not confined to a garage. It continues to be driven regularly, a testament to its enduring appeal. To witness this classic beauty in action, check out the video by car enthusiast Lou Costabile.
