USA vs USA — 1971 vs 1970
| Road Runner 440+6 | Road Runner Superbird | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 385 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 490 lb-ft | 490 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,210 cc | 7,210 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.7 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 146 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,700 lbs | 3,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,972 mm |
| Length | 5,258 mm | 5,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 902 | 1,935 |
| Original MSRP | $3,540 | $4,298 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $350,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 offers greater rarity, better value, while the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird counters with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
The Plymouth Road Runner lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 with the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird reveals how Plymouth refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6 producing 385 hp and the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird delivering 375 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.7 seconds. On the collector market, the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird commands a significant premium over the 1971 Plymouth Road Runner 440+6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.