USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1997
| Road Runner | Prowler 3.5 V6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 253 hp |
| Torque | 425 lb-ft | 255 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 3,518 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 5.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 122 mph | 119 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | 2,820 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,872 mm |
| Length | 5,105 mm | 4,238 mm |
| Units Produced | 84,420 | 11,702 |
| Original MSRP | $2,896 | $39,300 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $60,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner offers more power, higher top speed, stronger collectibility, while the 1997 Plymouth Prowler 3.5 V6 counters with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. 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 1997 Plymouth Prowler 3.5 V6 represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Plymouth badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 253 hp, a 82-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 Prowler relies on a V6 SOHC 24-valve with 3,518 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1997 Plymouth Prowler 3.5 V6 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. The Plymouth Prowler carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 680 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 11,702 units built, the 1997 Plymouth Prowler 3.5 V6 is considerably scarcer than the Plymouth Road Runner's 84,420 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.