USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1959
| Road Runner | Sport Fury GT 440 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 425 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 7,210 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 122 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.6 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 4,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,105 mm | 5,562 mm |
| Units Produced | 84,420 | — |
| Original MSRP | $2,896 | $3,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner offers quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury GT 440 counters with more power, higher top speed, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
Within the Plymouth stable, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner and 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury GT 440 represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Plymouth badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury GT 440 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 375 hp compared to 335 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Road Runner uses a V8 OHV (RB big-block) displacing 6,981 cc, while the Plymouth Sport Fury relies on a V8 OHV with 7,210 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Plymouth Road Runner carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 500 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.