USA vs Australia — 1968 vs 1971
| Road Runner 426 Hemi | Falcon GT-HO Phase III | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 425 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 490 lb-ft | 360 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 5,763 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.3 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.5 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 4,900 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 300 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $1,400,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner 426 Hemi makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III counters with its own distinct appeal, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner 426 Hemi for outright capability, or the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III for a more distinctive ownership experience.
The rivalry between USA and Australia automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner 426 Hemi versus 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner 426 Hemi holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 300 hp, a 125-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Road Runner uses a V8 OHV Hemi displacing 6,981 cc, while the Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV 16V with 5,763 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner 426 Hemi edges ahead at 5.3 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III commands a significant premium over the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner 426 Hemi, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.