Plymouth Road Runner

vs

Chevrolet Chevelle

USA vs USA — 1971 vs 1967

Plymouth Road Runner (1971)
Chevrolet Chevelle (1967)
Specifications
Road Runner 440+6 Air GrabberChevelle SS 396 L35
Horsepower385 hp325 hp
Torque490 lb-ft425 lb-ft
Engine Size7,210 cc6,489 cc
0-60 mph5.6 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed130 mph124 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec14.8 sec
Weight3,800 lbs3,400 lbs
Wheelbase2,946 mm2,921 mm
Length5,283 mm5,055 mm
Units Produced24663,006
Original MSRP$3,547$2,825
Value (Excellent)$275,000$95,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity10/106/10
The Verdict

On balance, the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber for outright capability, or the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35 for a more distinctive ownership experience.

Overview

In the world of Muscle Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber versus the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35. Both hail from Muscle era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber holds a clear advantage in raw power with 385 hp compared to 325 hp, a 60-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Chevrolet Chevelle carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 400 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 246 units built, the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber is considerably scarcer than the Chevrolet Chevelle's 63,006 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber commands a significant premium over the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 L35, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.