RAM Truck-Powered 1969 Plymouth Road Runner Convertible Packs Most Unexpected HEMI Setup

The Road Runner meant business as soon as it hit the street, offering a choice of potent V8s, from the 335 hp 383 ci engine to the 426 ci Hemi V8. The latter was a $714 option at that time, packing 425 hp and 490 lb-ft of torque. This was not a shy car in a straight line, let’s just put it that way.

The following year, Plymouth saw fit to perform a few modifications, both visual and mechanical. For starters, the grille and the taillights were altered, while new Road Runner decals were added so that buyers could make more of a connection between the vehicle and the 'Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner' cartoon. By the way, the carmaker had to pay Warner Bros $50,000 for the rights to use the Road Runner name. I still can’t believe the studio agreed.

I mean, can you imagine a car brand paying Disney the equivalent of those 50k today ($640,000 adjusted for inflation) for the rights to name vehicle something like the ‘Hulk’, and then use the character’s likeness and attributes in a straightforward way to sell said vehicle? Disney would probably hang up the phone as soon as someone mentioned 640k. It’s not enough money.

Anyway, let’s get back on track and mention the 440-engine option (new for 1969), which was rated at 390 horsepower, but the same amount of torque as the Hemi (490 lb-ft).

Alas, neither of those power units reside underneath the hood of this particular 1969 Road Runner Convertible, currently up for grabs to the highest bidder. This car is actually powered by a third-generation 5.7-liter HEMI V8, borrowed from a 2005 Ram Truck. It features long-tube headers, an aluminum radiator, plus the Hotwire Auto wiring harness and ECU, resulting an in estimated output of 375 horsepower.

Everything gets sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed automatic gearbox, while the Flowmaster mufflers make sure the dual exhaust system announces your arrival in style.

Visually, this American classic left the factory wearing Barracuda Orange, but was later repainted blue, which does look great along with the power-operated white soft top. Other highlights include the Air Grabber hood, dual side mirrors, chrome bumpers, dual exhaust outlets, ‘Hemi’ and ‘Road Runner’ badging, plus the Magnum 500-style US Mags 18-inch wheels with Yokohama Advan Apex V601 tires and Wilwood calipers.

As for the interior, it features white vinyl Procar Rally XL reclining front bucket seats, a Classic Air climate control system, push-button ignition (proximity based), a Lokar shifter, a woodgrain steering wheel and Dakota Digital instrumentation.