1971 Plymouth Road Runner VIN Verification

INTRODUCTION

The 1971 Plymouth Road Runner represents both a last hurrah for true muscle-car performance and the dawn of increasing restraint due to emissions and insurance pressures. With updated “fuselage” styling and driver-focused ergonomics, the Road Runner delivered bold design and powerful engine options—marking the end of an era for Chrysler’s high-compression V8s.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

Introduced in 1968 as Chrysler’s affordable high-performance option, the Road Runner flourished in the late 1960s. By 1971, however, changing regulations and skyrocketing insurance premiums contributed to a steep drop in sales—13,664 units versus 36,861 in 1970. It was also the final year the 426 Hemi and 440 Six-Barrel engines were available—making 1971 the rarest model year in Road Runner history.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 1971 Road Runner offered four engine choices, each tailored to different buyer needs:

• 383 cu in (6.3 L) V8 – standard: Rated at 300 hp gross (250 hp net) and 410 lb‑ft gross (325 lb‑ft net), with 8.5:1 compression and high-lift cam.

• 340 cu in (5.6 L) V8 – optional: Delivered 275 hp gross (235 hp net) and 340 lb‑ft gross (310 net), with 10.3:1 compression.

• 440 Six-Barrel (440‑6) V8 – rare: Produced 385 hp gross (330 hp net) and 490 lb‑ft gross (410 net), featuring triple two-barrel Holley carbs. Only 246 factory units built.

• 426 Hemi V8 – ultra-rare: Offered 425 hp gross (350 hp net) and 490 lb‑ft gross (390 net); just 55 produced in 1971—the final use of the Hemi in Road Runners.

Performance benchmarks: the 440 -6 was timed at 0–60 mph in ~6.7 seconds and a quarter-mile in about 15.0 seconds

DESIGN & FEATURES

• Exterior: 1971 introduced a sleek, one-year-only “fuselage” body style—curved contours, integrated bumpers, ventless side glass, and concealed windshield wipers. Only pillared hardtops were available.

• Interior: High‑back bucket seats standard, with optional power-adjustable leather, deep-pile carpeting, and noise insulation. Options included the Air Grabber hood scoop, power sunroof, remote exterior mirrors, and cassette player.

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

Only pillarless hardtop coupe was available in 1971 for the Road Runner. Total production was approximately 14,484 units. The GTX badge appeared as a trim package only in future years if a 440 engine was selected.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety was minimal by modern standards: front disc/rear drum brakes, basic steering, and no airbags or seatbelts beyond lap restraints. Some models offered power front seats and optional A/C (not on Hemi models). The Air Grabber system served as an early form of driver-controlled performance enhancement.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

Fuel efficiency was poor by modern standards but typical for the era and performance output:

• 383 V8: ~12–15 mpg

• Hemi and 440‑6 variants: ~8–12 mpg
  These cars required premium fuel to support high compression ratios.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1971, the Road Runner competed with vehicles like the Ford Torino Cobra, Chevrolet Chevelle SS, and Dodge Challenger. While other Mopar entries like the GTX carried heavier luxury leanings, the Road Runner was designed as a value-forward, muscle-first offering. The 1971 model stands out within Mopar’s history due to its low production and high-performance engine options.

PRICING

• Original MSRP (1971): Estimated $3,200–$3,500 depending on engine and options

• Current market value:

  • Standard 383 examples: $40,000–$60,000

  • 340 or 440‑6 models: $70,000+

  • 426 Hemi versions: $500,000+—some sold at Mecum auctions for over half a million dollars.

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

The 1971 Plymouth Road Runner remains revered among enthusiasts and collectors for its significance as the last year of Mopar’s high-compression engines. While not widely awarded at its time, its rarity and performance pedigree—especially in Hemi and Six-Barrel configuration—have earned it legendary status. Owner appreciation is evident in enthusiast testimonials:

“The fuselage Road Runner… screams tyre-turning torque.”

“The 1971 is the rarest of the golden-era bunch… the Hemi variant is the scarcest…and most sought-after.”