The 1971 Plymouth Road Runner marked a pivotal moment in automotive history, a swan song for the iconic HEMI engine. After years of dominating the drag strip and thrilling enthusiasts, Chrysler’s decision to discontinue its high-performance V8s in 1971 spelled the end of an era.
While the Road Runner soldiered on beyond that year, its performance was significantly diminished. The 1971 model year, with its limited production and rare engine options, stands out as a particularly special time for the Road Runner. Of the 13,664 Road Runners produced in 1971, only a tiny fraction were equipped with the legendary 426 HEMI engine.
With just 55 HEMI Road Runners built, this particular model has become one of the most sought-after and valuable classic cars. A rare visitor arrived at Canadian mechanic Nick Panaritis’ garage in October 2024 a 1971 Plymouth Road Runner, one of only 27 ever built with a three-speed automatic transmission.
Nick, a devoted Mopar enthusiast, has a knack for attracting incredible muscle cars. This wasn’t just any Road Runner though; it was the first 1971 HEMI model to grace his shop, and the chance to work on it was a thrill.
After fixing a minor oil leak, Nick took the legendary car for a test drive. While impressed by its performance, he discovered the tires couldn’t handle the immense power of the 426 HEMI engine. Watch the video below to see the Mopar lose traction as Nick puts the pedal to the metal.
These cars are automotive treasures, rarely appearing for sale. When they do, expect a hefty price tag the most expensive 1971 HEMI Road Runner ever sold fetched a staggering $500,000 in 2023.
