Is there an instance in which two sister models were combined into one? I don’t think there ever was a Pontiac Firebird Formula Trans Am. And there was no such thing as a Ford Torino Cobra GT either. But, over at Plymouth, there was a Road Runner GTX … sort of.
Image courtesy of Muscle Car Campy
The Plymouth GTX originally was a 440-standard mid-size performance car that was introduced for 1967. It was joined by a cheaper, 383-standard Road Runner for 1968. Aside from being two different trim levels, the two models’ major distinction was that the four-barrel 440 Super Commando was an exclusive for the GTX (the exception being the 1970 Road Runner Superbird, which came with a 440 standard).
Image courtesy of Muscle Car Campy
However, with a declining market, Plymouth ditched the GTX for 1972, but Plymouth kept the 440 four-barrel on the roster. When you ordered the 440 for the Road Runner, the car received subtle GTX badges in several places. No, the GTX was not a package — it was just badges that were applied when the 440 was specified. Officially, there never was a Road Runner GTX, but history has garnished a 440-powered 1972-74 Road Runner with the complementary GTX name to reflect what’s underneath the hood.
Image courtesy of Muscle Car Campy
Sure, this can confuse folks at times, but Muscle Car Campy’s feature on this 1973 Plymouth Road Runner GTX should help you remember this bit of trivia till your dying day. Like all 440-powered Road Runner GTXs in 1973, Bob Lathrop’s Autumn Bronze ‘Runner was rated at 280 (net) horsepower and backed by a TorqueFlite automatic — mandatory with the 440 starting in 1973.
If you enjoy this video, you can view more Muscle Car Campy flicks by clicking here.
