Pontiac LeMans

vs

Plymouth Road Runner

USA vs USA — 1962 vs 1971

Pontiac LeMans (1962)
Plymouth Road Runner (1971)
Specifications
LeMans GTO PackageRoad Runner 440+6 Air Grabber
Horsepower260 hp385 hp
Torque320 lb-ft490 lb-ft
Engine Size5,342 cc7,210 cc
0-60 mph8.5 sec5.6 sec
Top Speed115 mph130 mph
¼ Mile16.0 sec13.8 sec
Weight3,200 lbs3,800 lbs
Wheelbase2,946 mm2,946 mm
Length5,105 mm5,283 mm
Units Produced246
Original MSRP$2,650$3,547
Value (Excellent)$50,000$275,000
Collectibility6/1010/10
Rarity5/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 Pontiac LeMans GTO Package counters with lighter weight, 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.

Overview

Among Muscle Car enthusiasts, the matchup between the 1962 Pontiac LeMans GTO Package and 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber is one for the ages. These Muscle era machines competed directly for buyers' attention and continue to vie for collectors' affections today. The 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber holds a clear advantage in raw power with 385 hp compared to 260 hp, a 125-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 8.5 seconds. The Pontiac LeMans carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 600 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 Air Grabber commands a significant premium over the 1962 Pontiac LeMans GTO Package, 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.