Image of 1968 Plymouth Road Runner, sourced from en.wikipedia.org , Image Link.

Engine Specifications
Engine:	383 CID V8, 426 CID Hemi V8
Displacement:	383 - 426 cu in
Horsepower:	335 - 425 hp
Torque:	425 - 490 lb-ft
Compression Ratio:	10.0:1 (383 CID V8), 10.25:1 (426 CID Hemi V8)
Ignition System:	Electronic Ignition
Cooling System:	Water-cooled
Performance Specifications
0-60 Time:	6.3 - 7.1 seconds
1/4 Mile Time:	14.5 - 15.5 seconds
Top Speed:	Estimated 130 - 140 mph
Transmission and Drive
Drive Type:	Rear-wheel drive
Transmission Type:	3-speed automatic, 4-speed manual
Fuel and Efficiency
Fuel System Type:	Carburetor
MPG:	Estimated 10 - 12 mpg
Dimensions and Brakes
Brakes:	Front disc, rear drum
Wheelbase:	116 inches
Weight:	3,400 - 3,600 lbs

Unleashing the Legend: The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner

The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner arrived with a roar, not a whisper, capturing the hearts of muscle car enthusiasts with its raw power and no-frills approach. Born from a desire to offer the masses a budget-friendly performance car, the Road Runner was Plymouth's answer to the market's demand for affordable muscle. It was a vehicle that stripped away the non-essentials, leaving behind a potent machine that promised pure adrenaline. A unique fact that sets this vehicle apart is its use of the Warner Bros. licensed 'Road Runner' cartoon character, complete with its iconic "beep-beep" horn that still resonates with fans today.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner was a masterclass in muscle car aesthetics—bold lines, an aggressive stance, and minimalistic badging. The simplicity of its design was intentional, focusing on performance over luxury. Inside, the cabin reflected this philosophy with basic vinyl bench seats and rudimentary instrumentation. Yet, for all its simplicity, it was exactly what muscle car purists craved. Technologically, it boasted a robust suspension system designed to handle the immense torque of its engine. Color options ranged from subtle to vibrant, with "Electric Blue" and "Flame Red" being among the favorites. The two-door coupe was the iconic body style that most think of when they reminisce about the Road Runner.

Historical Significance

The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner made an indelible mark on automotive history by democratizing horsepower. At a time when muscle cars were often priced out of reach for many, Plymouth introduced an affordable yet powerful alternative that outperformed many upscale competitors. Its impact was immediate and profound, influencing manufacturers to consider more accessible performance models in their lineups.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood lay the heart of this beast—a standard 383 cubic inch V8 engine or the optional earth-shaking 426 Hemi V8. With a top speed that could exceed 100 mph and capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in just over 6 seconds, the Road Runner was a force to be reckoned with. On winding roads or over uneven surfaces, it remained surprisingly composed for such a powerful rear-wheel-drive car. The symphony from its exhaust and vibrations through the steering wheel provided an unfiltered driving experience that modern vehicles struggle to match.

Ownership Experience

The Road Runner's utilitarian nature meant it could serve as a daily driver but it shone brightest as a weekend warrior at drag strips or as a showpiece at car meets. Its mechanical simplicity made maintenance relatively straightforward for those with basic mechanical knowledge. However, parts for the more powerful engines can be rarer and more expensive.

Fun Facts

Among enthusiasts, tales circulate of rare editions like the Hemi-powered versions or those equipped with the elusive "A12" package featuring a lift-off fiberglass hood and high-performance upgrades. Celebrity connections and appearances in movies have only added to its mystique. Despite criticisms over its spartan interior and ride comfort compared to luxury-oriented competitors, it remains beloved for its intended purpose—pure performance.

Collector's Information

Today, original 1968 Plymouth Road Runners can fetch anywhere from $30,000 to well over $100,000 depending on condition, engine type (with Hemis commanding top dollar), and originality. Production numbers were healthy—with over 44,000 units built—but finding one in pristine condition is increasingly challenging. As interest in classic muscle cars remains strong, values are generally appreciating.

Conclusion

The 1968 Plymouth Road Runner stands as an icon of American automotive culture—a testament to an era when power and simplicity merged to create something truly special. Its legacy endures in every rumble of its engine and every turn of its wheels—a reminder of what once was and what continues to captivate classic car enthusiasts around the world.