USA vs Japan — 1970 vs 1971
| Superbird 426 Hemi | Galant GTO MR | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 425 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | 490 lb-ft | 116 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 1,597 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,750 lbs | 2,205 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,460 mm |
| Length | 5,639 mm | 4,240 mm |
| Units Produced | 1,920 | 8,795 |
| Original MSRP | $4,298 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $500,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 8/10 |
The 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1971 Mitsubishi Galant GTO MR brings lighter weight, better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Mitsubishi heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
Putting the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi against the 1971 Mitsubishi Galant GTO MR is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus Japan. The 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 125 hp, a 300-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Superbird uses a V8 OHV (426 Hemi) displacing 6,981 cc, while the Mitsubishi Galant GTO relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,597 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 9.8 seconds. The Mitsubishi Galant GTO carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1545 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,920 units built, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi is considerably scarcer than the Mitsubishi Galant GTO's 8,795 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi commands a significant premium over the 1971 Mitsubishi Galant GTO MR, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.