Plymouth Road Runner

vs

Plymouth Fury

USA vs USA — 1968 vs 1956

Plymouth Road Runner (1968)
Plymouth Fury (1956)
Specifications
Road RunnerFury Sport Fury 440
Horsepower335 hp350 hp
Torque425 lb-ft470 lb-ft
Engine Size6,981 cc7,210 cc
0-60 mph6.4 sec7.2 sec
Top Speed122 mph125 mph
¼ Mile14.2 sec15.0 sec
Weight3,500 lbs3,900 lbs
Wheelbase2,946 mm3,023 mm
Length5,105 mm5,410 mm
Units Produced84,420
Original MSRP$2,896$2,868
Value (Excellent)$175,000$40,000
Collectibility9/106/10
Rarity5/105/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner offers quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 1956 Plymouth Fury Sport Fury 440 counters with 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.

Overview

Within the Plymouth stable, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner and 1956 Plymouth Fury Sport Fury 440 represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Plymouth badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner producing 335 hp and the 1956 Plymouth Fury Sport Fury 440 delivering 350 hp. 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 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 7.2 seconds. The Plymouth Road Runner carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 400 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner commands a significant premium over the 1956 Plymouth Fury Sport Fury 440, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.