USA vs USA — 1956 vs 1951
| Fury Sport Fury 440 | Belvedere 426 Max Wedge | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 350 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 470 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,210 cc | 6,981 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.2 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.0 sec | 13.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,900 lbs | 3,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,023 mm | 2,946 mm |
| Length | 5,410 mm | 5,067 mm |
| Original MSRP | $2,868 | $3,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $250,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1956 Plymouth Fury Sport Fury 440 counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Within the Plymouth stable, the 1956 Plymouth Fury Sport Fury 440 and 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Plymouth badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 350 hp, a 75-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 7.2 seconds. The Plymouth Belvedere carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 600 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge commands a significant premium over the 1956 Plymouth Fury Sport Fury 440, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.