USA vs USA — 1951 vs 1959
| Belvedere 426 Max Wedge | Sport Fury GT 440 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 425 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 480 lb-ft | 480 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,981 cc | 7,210 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.2 sec | 14.6 sec |
| Weight | 3,300 lbs | 4,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,946 mm | 3,048 mm |
| Length | 5,067 mm | 5,562 mm |
| Original MSRP | $3,500 | $3,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $80,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 6/10 |
On balance, the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, lighter weight. However, the 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury GT 440 counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge for outright capability, or the 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury GT 440 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Plymouth has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge with the 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury GT 440 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 375 hp, a 50-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 6.5 seconds. The Plymouth Belvedere carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 700 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1951 Plymouth Belvedere 426 Max Wedge commands a significant premium over the 1959 Plymouth Sport Fury GT 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.