The Plymouth Road Runner, introduced in 1968, was a stripped-down, budget-friendly version of the GTX, equipped with a standard 383 cubic-inch V8. Its affordability propelled it to immense popularity, with sales peaking at over 80,000 units in 1969.
While the 1969 model remains highly desirable today, its availability in larger numbers compared to rarer HEMI or Six-Barrel variants keeps prices relatively accessible.
Many examples, however, have fallen into disrepair or were scrapped, with survivors often undergoing restoration or customization. This particular 1969 Road Runner, though spared the junkyard, features intriguing modifications.
Its unusual hood scoop, typically reserved for A12 Six-Barrel models, is adorned with “HEMI” decals, a deceptive touch as this car is equipped with the base 383 engine. While this Road Runner boasts an imposing presence, it’s crucial to note that its heart isn’t a genuine 426-cubic-inch HEMI.
Instead, a behemoth 528-cubic-inch Indy crate engine, churning out 660 horsepower, resides under the hood. This is a substantial leap from the original HEMI’s 425 ponies. Power is channeled through a four-speed manual transmission and a 4.10-ratio Dana 60 rear end. The car’s exterior, repainted in 2014, closely resembles the 1969 Plymouth Scorch Red. Interestingly, the massive HEMI was refreshed during the repaint, having been initially installed in 2003.
The Road Runner’s past includes a stint as a drag car in the 1980s, necessitating the removal of the original 383. Fortunately, replacing a 383 is straightforward given their abundance, particularly in non-convertible 1969 models.
With over 78,000 1969 Road Runners produced, only a fraction were equipped with the coveted HEMI or A12 Six-Barrel setups. Therefore, the absence of a 383 in this particular example is unlikely to be a deal-breaker, especially considering the monstrous powerplant it now houses.
