USA vs Australia — 1968 vs 1971
| Road Runner | Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 425 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 5,766 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.4 sec | 6.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 122 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 3,500 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 2,819 mm |
| Length | 5,105 mm | 4,870 mm |
| Units Produced | 84,420 | 300 |
| Original MSRP | $2,896 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $1,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
This matchup is remarkably close. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner offers more power, stronger collectibility, better value, while the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) counters with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.
When USA engineering meets Australia craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner and 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner holds a clear advantage in raw power with 335 hp compared to 300 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Road Runner uses a V8 OHV (RB big-block) displacing 6,981 cc, while the Ford Falcon relies on a V8 OHV with 5,766 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) edges ahead at 6.4 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 300 units built, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) is considerably scarcer than the Plymouth Road Runner's 84,420 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Ford Falcon GT-HO Phase III (XY) commands a significant premium over the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.