I know many individuals who would never be caught driving a late third-generation Dodge Charger or second-generation Plymouth Road Runner. However, once you overlook the absence of a 440 Six-Pack or a 426 HEMI, these cars are not as terrible as they may seem. This 1973 Road Runner serves as evidence that post-1971 Mopars can gracefully age with proper upkeep.
While this Road Runner is too immaculate to be considered completely original, it is still remarkable that it has been restored to this extent. Most of these Mopars typically end up decaying in junkyards and barns because the costs of restoration surpass their market value. Nevertheless, this vehicle has remained with the same owner since 1982, showcasing a labor of love and a fortunate Road Runner.
Although the paint may not be authentic, the sheet metal remains untouched. The same can be said for the black interior and the 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) V8 engine under the hood. With a rating of 240 net horsepower, this engine falls between the base 318-cubic-inch (5.2-liter) and the 400-cubic-inch (6.6-liter) V8s. The former generates 170 horses, while the latter boasts 260 horsepower. In that year, Plymouth also offered a four-barrel 440 V8 with an output of 280 horses.
The 340 was the second most prevalent engine choice for the 1973 Road Runner. Out of the 15,929 units produced that year, 5,384 were equipped with the small block. This particular car features an automatic transmission, making it one of 4,428 examples with this specific drivetrain combination. Although not rare, I suppose.
However, there is one aspect that sets it apart: this Mopar is coated in FY1 Lemon Twist paint. Lemon Twist, or Top Banana for Dodge vehicles, was part of the iconic High-Impact color palette and became available in 1970, remaining on the options list for four years. It holds the record for being the longest-running High-Impact hue alongside Tor Red/HEMI Orange. More notably, it was the sole High-Impact paint available in 1973 and the last one offered by Chrysler in the 1970s. In total, this Road Runner is one of the final B-body vehicles ordered in such a vibrant color.
Admittedly, this feature does not necessarily make it more desirable, but it is an intriguing fact. It could also serve as an excellent conversation starter at local car shows. Although it may not be directly related to the Lemon Twist paint, this Road Runner became one of the most expensive of its kind, selling for $44,000 (including fees) at Kissimmee 2024.
According to the Source autoevolution.com