Description
1971 Plymouth Road Runner (not a clone), code RM23 - Matching numbers Big block V8 383 ci (6, 3l) High Performance and automatic gearbox A727 HD, 8 ¾" axle Options : power disc brakes, power steering, Decor Package interior, air conditioning, indicator reminder, Road Runner body decoration, Light Package Car that I found and had imported myself from the USA in 2020, sold new in California at the time (code E so built at the Los Angeles factory, Its blue interior and exterior (B5 Blue) are totally representative of the most popular Mopars of that era.
The bodywork is worthy of a Californian car that has never been restored, sunburnt in places but extremely sound in the underbody and rocker panels. All the areas usually rusted on these models (wheel arches, boot bottoms, door sills, rear wing sills, etc.) are well preserved. There are a few small dents and scratches from the car's past. The paintwork and adhesive strips appear to be original, with a few touch-ups in places but no putty. A bodyshell to finish restoring or to keep as is with its history, depending on your taste. I could apply a temporary blue spray paint to make it more uniform but I'll let the future owner decide what to do next (varnish to keep it as is, full paint job.... The interior is in a surprisingly good state of preservation, with a typical seventies blue colour scheme to match the exterior and a 3-seater bench seat in the front (6 seat belts and 6 seats on the registration document). Everything works, except for a few ventilation and air-conditioning functions (you can see that the air-conditioning compressor was restored before purchase, but the system needs to be restarted). Under the bonnet is Chrysler's 383 ci (6. 3L) V8, a big block renowned for its reliability and performance, mated to a Torqueflite A727 3-speed automatic gearbox. It purrs along nicely on long drives and is never short of torque. Strictly original configuration, true to the factory. This is a reliable car that has never undergone any restoration but simply seems to have been maintained as it should be and kept dry throughout its life. A car in its prime that doesn't hide its faults under a lot of gimmicks.
I'm selling it because I have other financial priorities and no more time to complete this project 100%. French collector's registration in my name. MOT OK April 2025, recently serviced with engine and gearbox changed. Numerous reliability upgrades (front axle, steering, carburetion, ignition, wiring harness, braking, etc.) carried out between 2020 and today (and less than 1, 200 km driven). The most recent: gearbox rebuilt in March 2025. Ideally, I'd like it to fall into the hands of a true enthusiast who can preserve its authenticity. Untampered models are becoming so rare, and I'm supplying a few parts with it, including the new plastic front blades (the famous 'moustaches' of the Road Runner), which can be reassembled if you like the style.
