Ikr its just sad american people were lazy atleast my Gen1 1970 Dodge Challenger has 6 sports manual transmission then 4MT i just prefer shifting a lot ❤
I'm 67 years of age. This car is identical to my first car bought used in 1972 from my brother for $800. This brings back so many memories just like it was yesterday. This car was a beast back then and I enjoyed every moment I owned it. Washed it every day. ...know this car inside and out. Thanks for the memories.
Harrismi7 Hell yes not to mention I feel like the best sounding muscle cars where from mid 1960s-1970. Not saying the muscle cars don’t sound good now. But old school muscle sounds the best in my opinion
My first car was the 68 Roadrunner given to me by my father. It's a 4 speed manual transmission. No power steering, no power brakes. My best memories in high school from my senior year was highly influenced by this car. Driving back then was much more engaging then it is today in my hybrid Camry. And the power in that Roadrunner.... It is fond memory from an era of my family who used to have Mopar muscle cars ranging from the 1970 Challenger and Superbee to the 1968 Roadrunner. Those cars are long since gone, but the Roadrunner, surprisingly, is still in my family to this day. Someday, if permitted, I will get to drive this wonderful car that was my first and only true love. It was the only thing in a crazy time of adolescence that did not break my heart. Cheers to my first and only love when it comes to cars.
Great video. I was happy to someone reviewing a normal muscle car, meaning a common variant. The vast majority of Road Runners were set up the way this one is, 383, auto, 3.23 gears, but everyone wants to talk about the Hemi or 69 440-6, both of which were ultra rare. This was the Road Runner we really drove back then!
With a small adjustment of the kick down linkage for the trans at the carb, this car with those tires would probably boil them thru first gear and to the top of second on asphalt. My 70 Fury 1 440 police pursuit would and so did my 71 Ford Custom 429 police spec car. These cars just needed the 60 series radials that came out in about 1980 and Addco sway bars front and rear, and I can attest that they were a blast to drive.
Old school, love it. Wing window, high beam on the floor next to the brake pedal. The smell, ahh the smell, that is what I remember. Brings back great memories. Thanks for bringing those back Matt.
Matt, my dad's first car was a '68 Road Runner, in this exact spec, color and everything. He was born in 1957, so to have something like this in high school would have just been incredible. He sold it around the same time he married my mom, but in the late 1990's, early 2000's, he bought a 1969 Chevelle SS 396 4-speed, which I inherited when he past away in 2005, and I still own it today. I actually learned how to drive stick in that Chevelle. Seeing this review truly made me happy. I would love to some day own a '68 Road Runner and restore it just like my dad's. Thank you for sharing.
Matt, One thing that stands out from that era was the customer choice. You could get the EXACT car you wanted with the engine, transmission, body style, seats and upholstery not to mention a choice of 15- 25 colors. As regards the Roadrunner, it really was an affordable option that pared down the frills to focus on the performance. Some people will think it sacrilegious but the new Camry TRD reminds me of the same 'less is more' approach.
Very true about the choices! It was a great time for performance. I think Dodge does a great job with this with the new Challenger too, lots of flavors.
My first car was a 1968 Road Runner. Dad bought it for on my 15th birthday, he gave $300 for it, looked like it was painted with a broom, interior was trashed and it burned more oil than gas. He told me I could work and fix it up myself. I hated him for this at first it was in such terrible condition. But by my 16th birthday I worked hard, put every dime and extra time I had into fixing her up and had a freshly rebuilt 426 Hemi fall in my lap. That car turned every head as I passed by when I was done. Man I miss that car.
Matt, I really enjoy watching your videos. You really know how to capture the joy of driving these cars and your evaluations are spot on. Can't wait for the next one!
these cars where developed for young tough guys lookin to tear the streets up , run from the cops and park somewhere and unknowingly creating future family members in the back seat. love these cars
And then they had to sell the car 9 months later and buy a sensible family vehicle, such as a full-sized Ford wagon with wood paneling and a 302 Windsor.
I'll be honest... in 20 years when the entire office is showing up in a sea of Teslas showing up with this bad boy would be quite the treat. I would drive it in every day!
Great video, Matt. Love these classic car reviews, they always make me end up lusting for a classic muscle car - or just any classic car from the 60's / early 70's :)
Great story, great car, and great year. I hope reviewing vintage rides like this are part of your plan to revamp and expand. Old guys like me certainly appreciate it!
Glad you liked it Alan! I have two more vintage Mopar reviews coming in the next 2 weeks, after that I have no others planned, but I'd love to do more if people offer their classics.
You easily just made one of the best old school reviews you did pulls so we can get a sensation of what it was like great review
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That Road Runner has non power drum brakes. Disc brake option included power brake booster. Either the throttle cable isn't giving full throttle, or the kickdown linkage is not adjusted. The torqueflite always had a nice quick kickdown.
I bought a new 68 Roadrunner in April of 68, and because it was an early model, it was a post car with flip out rear side windows. Only option on my car (bought off the lot) was the 8 track tape player. The tape player was part of the factory radio (not lower on the dash). The powertrain was 335 hp 383, 4 speed with bench seat, and 3:23 gears. The 4 speed was standard, and the 727 Torqueflite auto was optional. Note: the four speed Roadrunners did not have a center console, so if you wanted that feature you had to buy a GTX.
This is where I think the automakers are missing the point. Why do all performance car have to be fully loaded and heavy? Why can't they offer so big performance numbers but with fewer options?
I had a '68 Roadrunner Sedan (Gold with black vynl top) and it's still my favorite of all the vehicles I've owned. Mine had the turn signal indicator out on the respective fenders. I don't know why only some of these had that feature. 🤔
In my understanding the B body platform began somewhat prior to the "golden age" IMHO!... of '68-'70 Muscle Car Pentastars (some purists would argue but I'll leave that to them)... The '68 - '70 models all had virtually identical uni-body subframes with adaptations and allowances made for differences in hoods, doors, deck lids and exterior sheet metal... To evolve from the previous iteration of the "boxy" pre '68 look all of them visually expressed when looking down the side back to front a sexy "Coke" bottle silhouette!, which made them IMO very desirable!... Chrysler Corporation designers really made magic!... Drivetrains were very similar from trannies (3 speed Torqueflites and 4 speed manuals) to the rear end (Suregrip to HD Dana 60)... Base engines were predicated on the models upgrade appointments from slant sixes, 318 cu. in. 340 cu. in. for the least expensive options to the more muscular brethren based variously upon a base 383 cu. in with various up-gradeable performance interior components (Windage trays and beefier camshafts)... More serious enthusiasts could opt for 400 cu. in or models equipped with 426 cu. in. and 440 cu. in. Arguments will ensue for the top two options but with the 426 cu. in. putting out 425 h.p. in stock configuration (Estimated for insurance purposes) and with "sky is the limit" modifications of way much more than that, it's not hard to see why heads turn and eyes bow with respect when such a machine pulls into a car show... and it isn't hard to wonder why because "Hemis" were dominate in race competitions... For the general population so enamored from race day the engine bay stock engine compartments received differential treatment in carburetion nomenclature: e.g., 383 roadrunner engine, 6 BBL (Plymouth) vs 6Pack (Dodge) all invariably tagged on the breather assembly... 2 Door Model B-Bodies: Plymouth: Satellite, Belvedere Roadrunner & GTX... Dodge: Coronet, Superbee and Charger...
Had one in the early 1970s. Won all races with my 383 Magnum 4 Speed on Main Street in Oxnard California except for a Super Bee and A 1956 Chevy with Nitrous. Took over $79.00 payments per month when a Navy buddy shipped out. Could lower the front of the car to get that raked look by turning two bolts near the front of the car. One of my fondest memories. Sold it to another Navy buddy L. Morales. Would like to track it down some day but don’t know how. Don’t have any other info on the car.
I had one just like it, except it was a 4 speed, and had a black vinal top, it had an AM 8-track in the Dash, it also had the same seats except they had headrest and it had an armrest, dual rear speakers and defroster same color interior and exterior it looks just like mine except for it's an automatic mine was a 4 speed and I did have a vinyl top. Oh yeah, it had a tack in the Dash. And a little light under the dash telling you when you were in reverse, I love that car it's my favorite car that I've ever had.
My 69'' Had the shoulder straps mounted in the ceiling...I never took them down ever, in fact I never even wore the seat belt hardly anybody did back in the 60s and 70s.
Im not a fan of new cars but imagine if plymouth came back and resurrected the road runner, making it true to its roots. A true 2 door large muscle car not this 4 door charger garb. Also maybe a bit more affordable even more barebones like manual windows, locks and transmission. I know not everyone would be interested but I sure like the idea.
Don't be decieved by the 15 sec. 1/4 mi. times because that included spinning the tires all through first gear or by feathering the throttle. A more realistic time was low 14s even with some wheel spin. Add modern tires and a modern 6 or 8 speed transmission to that 383 and it will be a mid 13 sec car easy.
@@doncnunez6231 The "wonky" transmission just needs the kick down linkage adjusted a little bit. About a 3 minute fix. And when he rolled into it and it didn't kick down a gear or two, at that speed he could have pulled it down into first, which is good for around 70 mph with 3.23 gears and then moved the lever to second which is good for about 110 mph and then top end should be around 130. All these numbers based on my own experience in my 1970 Fury 1 police pursuit 440 with 3.23 gears. That car was good for 145 mph, which I did many times. Ahh to be young and dumb on bias ply tires like in 1979.
Thanks: I actually ordered a new 68; GREEN/auto/ no air conditioning/ 383/fan Declutch/ am radio / D3LUXE INTERIOR; paying $200 Deposit to Lafayette, INDIANA Dealer... Unfortunately, decided to pass on buying , invested IN Pharmacy School at Purdue, etc..... quite a year for me 1968.....met my wife also.......
You can’t be serious. A 4-speed was ABSOLUTELY available with a bench. There were no buckets in an RM21 or RM23 in 68. The RM23 (hardtop) was a mid-year introduction. The early 68s were post only. @11:05 The stick was STANDARD. The automatic was OPTIONAL.
From low RPM you have to snap the throttle down to get it to kick into overdrive. That probably has the 727 transmission. You can't kill them, at least I couldn't and I tried.
I've had several Chry. products. Had a 69' 383 RR too. The steering gearbox is shot which is why there is so much play. That happens to those cars over time. Add a new Steering gearbox and you will see a big difference in keeping that car going straight down the road. Also looks like that car has lost quite a bit of its pep. No kickdown in the trans. Definately not running right. If I did that in my 69' you'd be be slammed back into the seat.
In my understanding the B body platform began somewhat prior to the "golden age" IMHO!... of '68-'70 Muscle Car Pentastars (some purists would argue but I'll leave that to them)... The '68 - '70 models all had virtually identical uni-body subframes with adaptations and allowances made for differences in hoods, doors, deck lids and exterior sheet metal... To evolve from the previous iteration of the "boxy" pre '68 look all of them visually expressed when looking down the side back to front a sexy "Coke" bottle silhouette!, which made them IMO very desirable!... Chrysler Corporation designers really made magic!... Drivetrains were very similar from trannies (3 speed Torqueflites and 4 speed manuals) to the rear end (Suregrip to HD Dana 60)... Base engines were predicated on the models upgrade appointments from slant sixes, 318 cu. in. 340 cu. in. for the least expensive options to the more muscular brethren based variously upon a base 383 cu. in with various up-gradeable performance interior components (Windage trays and beefier camshafts)... More serious enthusiasts could opt for 400 cu. in or models equipped with 426 cu. in. and 440 cu. in. Arguments will ensue for the top two options but with the 426 cu. in. putting out 425 h.p. in stock configuration (Estimated for insurance purposes) and with "sky is the limit" modifications of way much more than that, it's not hard to see why heads turn and eyes bow with respect when such a machine pulls into a car show... and it isn't hard to wonder why because "Hemis" were dominate in race competitions... For the general population so enamored from race day the engine bay stock engine compartments received differential treatment in carburetion nomenclature: e.g., 383 roadrunner engine, 6 BBL (Plymouth) vs 6Pack (Dodge) all invariably tagged on the breather assembly... 2 Door Model B-Bodies: Plymouth: Satellite, Belvedere, Roadrunner & GTX... Dodge: Coronet, Superbee and Charger...
Before you even mentioned it I heard that taking off from a normal stop engine and gear noise. That’s what I heard riding in the back of my parent’s car at a young age. We had a Plymouth Fury from the 60’s and later a Fury1970. Back then too our family just had that car. Not like a couple today with 2 or more. Simpler Times.
I had a '68 Dodge Monaco, a bigger 4 door sedan. It had the 383 2bbl and 3.23 LSD (called Sure-Grip). It had a pretty good launch for a big sedan but no top end. Decent handling for its size although I did upgrade to radials. I drove it all thru high school and college. Worse thing was the drum brakes all around would fade horribly after just a few stop and goes on the interstate.
I had a 68 Road Runner, Mine had bench seats and a 4 speed Your 15 second ET in quarter Miles is a bit off. Mine ran low 14s and high 13s. Had a 383 with 3:91 gears. Ran at Green Valley in Ft. Worth Texas. Only all White Road Runner with dark Blue interior I ever seen.
The gearing is the key to lower times, the 3:91’s will yield the times you mentioned, which were very competitive during the sixties and early seventies.
@@bman99ss , What rear gears were you running with your 3 speed Torqflite? At the time, that transmission shifted faster than most others on the market, including manuals, unless your name was Ronnie Sox of course !
Since i was a kid i always said id own nothing but classic american muscle, and here i am at 22 almost done building a 3rd gen camaro & soon going on a hunt for a Duster haha, modern cars just aint for me the only thing they have going for them is the huge HP besides that they lack everything these classics have like character, creativity, they scream badass they give you this feeling that even a 900hp modern car cant compare too, and dont get me started on that mean beautiful rumble these engines have
I agree,who knows if the new cars will even be around in 50 years !! All that technology will be obsolete ,🤗 at least these cars are worthy of restoration
I had a 69, bought it when I was 20. Several weeks ago I turned 72 my wife bought me a 69 4 on the floor vitamin C color. I walk into my shop at all times of the day and night just to stare at it. I’m not as old anymore. I Love my wife
..im a lil under the weather today, so i just watched this instead of a very clinical, start/stop/comments time stamped, lol..imna just hit some hilites..grammar will be sub par :p *1stly!!! .. you're a gentleman and a scholar! Dude. Again, your non-biased, non jaded ride alongs are a breath of fresh air! ..ppl that have owned these cars forever or are very well off..old..grumpy :p w.e, need to watch your videos to see how it should be done. js*. road runner: 1968 debut..B&W decal, so hilarious! The area between the grille & bumper was not open yet like the following yrs..a '68 could run a bit warm bc of that on hot days..something to be mindful of. Never buy into the 'wetter water' 'extra cooling ability' baloney of some expensive coolant additives. water & anti-freeze mix, done. having heating issues? boil the rad core..fit a larger one in..run a taller rear gear..electric fans, all the usual cures work. the car you're driving ..idk, may not be a full on 10:1 compression with high octane fuel..it shudda hazed the tires kicking it down from low speeds..or they installed a larger than stock cam & lost that low end "Snap!". the 'ol 727 acting up a bit? occasionally no kick down? hmm..needs addressing. take it from me..tend to your cars when things start to get a bit off..if you wait..it'll just cost more and be more annoying as it worsens..(sends note to younger me) The 383 used the same cam & heads as the 440. Each engine ofc had a few diff cam specs and heads changed form gen to gen..but say a 383 4-bbl did have the same cam as a 440 4-bbl and same with the magnums..road runner had a special 335 hp cam, SOOO much bigger than the 325 hp 4-bbl cam..right? well..car makers downplayed hp to garner lower insurance rates..it was likely more than a 10 hp hop up. chrysler was very conservative with cam timing. they knew on the street, a stout/torquey cam will perform better and give longer service life. ppl into racing would simply yank their carefully chosen components and mod the car anyway. this road runner has about a .450 lift cam..mild compared to the stuff ppl plop into their engines, nowadays. you're correct, pre '72 cars hp & torque were rated "Gross", ie, no accessories etc, '72 up is the NET rating..accessories, full exaust, truer power rating sys. however! since some of these cars were underrated..it kind of made the numbers..still accurate in some cases. and still too low in engines like the '68-69 road runner and Super Bee 383's. some folks tuned the carbs & distributors up in these specific cars..ran proper gasoline and could hit 400 hp on a dyno in an otherwise stock 383. 426 Hemi was rated accurately..sort of? :) 425 hp was right on..at 5,000 RPM. However the Elephant breathed much deeper..they made 475-500 at 6,000 RPM, depending on year, state of tune, fuel used. There was an advertised red line..and a red line, actual. :D
..the cliff notes edition of 40 years of reading about 60's/70's Mopars and owning/driving them since '84. plus knowing old, grumpy ppl (lol) that were 100% there when these cars were sold new. _wish me luck on __#furyvanwinkle__ on Insta_ !
The only thing that Plymouth should have done was to make the standard rear gearing at least a 3:55, which is a nice compromise between performance and highway cruising, the standard 3:23 just didn’t cut it at the strip but at least you could order the track package with a 3:91 or 4:10 as an option for a little more money, and still have a performance bargain,
*When old cars are more fun to review than new cars*
Ikr its just sad american people were lazy atleast my Gen1 1970 Dodge Challenger has 6 sports manual transmission then 4MT i just prefer shifting a lot ❤
I'm 67 years of age. This car is identical to my first car bought used in 1972 from my brother for $800. This brings back so many memories just like it was yesterday. This car was a beast back then and I enjoyed every moment I owned it. Washed it every day. ...know this car inside and out. Thanks for the memories.
I love this car! The Dodge and Plymouth B-Bodies from 1968-1970 are some of the best-looking cars from the musclecar era.
Harrismi7
Hell yes not to mention I feel like the best sounding muscle cars where from mid 1960s-1970. Not saying the muscle cars don’t sound good now. But old school muscle sounds the best in my opinion
i luv dis car more
Does anybody know out there how many satellite Convertibles were made in 68?
I have a 68 Roadrunner. 4 speed I love it.
@@tomriggle3217 Try this site, you have to put in at least the first 5 letters of the VIN.
My dad had a '69 Roadrunner hardtop in a bronze color. He loved that thing.
My first car was the 68 Roadrunner given to me by my father. It's a 4 speed manual transmission. No power steering, no power brakes. My best memories in high school from my senior year was highly influenced by this car. Driving back then was much more engaging then it is today in my hybrid Camry. And the power in that Roadrunner.... It is fond memory from an era of my family who used to have Mopar muscle cars ranging from the 1970 Challenger and Superbee to the 1968 Roadrunner. Those cars are long since gone, but the Roadrunner, surprisingly, is still in my family to this day. Someday, if permitted, I will get to drive this wonderful car that was my first and only true love. It was the only thing in a crazy time of adolescence that did not break my heart. Cheers to my first and only love when it comes to cars.
This is the content I want to see, awesome video
Thanks Tom, I'm glad you like it! 2 more classic Mopar reviews coming the next 2 weeks!
Matt Maran Motoring Awesome can’t wait, love old school muscle cars.
all his vids r awesome
Bob The 100% he makes amazing car reviews and all his videos are pretty good. My original comment might’ve not conveyed that
Great video. I was happy to someone reviewing a normal muscle car, meaning a common variant. The vast majority of Road Runners were set up the way this one is, 383, auto, 3.23 gears, but everyone wants to talk about the Hemi or 69 440-6, both of which were ultra rare. This was the Road Runner we really drove back then!
With a small adjustment of the kick down linkage for the trans at the carb, this car with those tires would probably boil them thru first gear and to the top of second on asphalt. My 70 Fury 1 440 police pursuit would and so did my 71 Ford Custom 429 police spec car. These cars just needed the 60 series radials that came out in about 1980 and Addco sway bars front and rear, and I can attest that they were a blast to drive.
Old school, love it. Wing window, high beam on the floor next to the brake pedal. The smell, ahh the smell, that is what I remember. Brings back great memories. Thanks for bringing those back Matt.
Thanks for watching!
I remember that hot rod smell..dad had 68 charger I loved that car..
a ginormous LACK of plastic! lol. yeah, hey have a fab aroma to them.
Matt, my dad's first car was a '68 Road Runner, in this exact spec, color and everything. He was born in 1957, so to have something like this in high school would have just been incredible. He sold it around the same time he married my mom, but in the late 1990's, early 2000's, he bought a 1969 Chevelle SS 396 4-speed, which I inherited when he past away in 2005, and I still own it today. I actually learned how to drive stick in that Chevelle. Seeing this review truly made me happy. I would love to some day own a '68 Road Runner and restore it just like my dad's. Thank you for sharing.
Fun video. Just a note, you could get a 4-speed with a bench seat.
That's all they came with in 68 ..u couldn't get buckets till 69
@@AllCelebzNElitenNeckMaskz correct
I love when a car has an amazing story to it!!!!
same
My dad has a 72 Plymouth Satellite 2 door with a 340 small block that he bought in 89. Truly a glorious time for cars back then
That’s awesome!
Nice review. I wish more people would review the old muscle cars!
all his reviews r nice
Matt, One thing that stands out from that era was the customer choice. You could get the EXACT car you wanted with the engine, transmission, body style, seats and upholstery not to mention a choice of 15- 25 colors. As regards the Roadrunner, it really was an affordable option that pared down the frills to focus on the performance. Some people will think it sacrilegious but the new Camry TRD reminds me of the same 'less is more' approach.
Very true about the choices! It was a great time for performance. I think Dodge does a great job with this with the new Challenger too, lots of flavors.
My first car was a 1968 Road Runner. Dad bought it for on my 15th birthday, he gave $300 for it, looked like it was painted with a broom, interior was trashed and it burned more oil than gas. He told me I could work and fix it up myself. I hated him for this at first it was in such terrible condition. But by my 16th birthday I worked hard, put every dime and extra time I had into fixing her up and had a freshly rebuilt 426 Hemi fall in my lap. That car turned every head as I passed by when I was done. Man I miss that car.
Matt, I really enjoy watching your videos. You really know how to capture the joy of driving these cars and your evaluations are spot on. Can't wait for the next one!
these cars where developed for young tough guys lookin to tear the streets up , run from the cops and park somewhere and unknowingly creating future family members in the back seat. love these cars
And then they had to sell the car 9 months later and buy a sensible family vehicle, such as a full-sized Ford wagon with wood paneling and a 302 Windsor.
Had one in 1969, with a Hurst 4OTF and 383 single four barrel just like this one. Great road car and reasonably quick.
I'll be honest... in 20 years when the entire office is showing up in a sea of Teslas showing up with this bad boy would be quite the treat. I would drive it in every day!
@Mikeman Jordan ugh right
Love me some old Mopars!
Great review, Matt. Love the sound of that 4 barrel carburetor at wide open throttle. Looking forward to more classic car reviews.
all his reviews r great
Roadrunners came with bench seats and a four speed. I had a 1968 with that combination.
My 69' had buckets.
That's a Gorgeous Roadrunner
Also
R.I.P
Plymouth
1928-2001
Love when you do classics to mix it up. And this Roadrunner is a dream. Great job reviewing as always!
i luv it more
Great video, Matt. Love these classic car reviews, they always make me end up lusting for a classic muscle car - or just any classic car from the 60's / early 70's :)
Thanks for watching it!
all his vids r great
YES MATT KEEP THE CLASSIC CAR REVIEWS COMING !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks, I’m glad you like them!
Great story, great car, and great year. I hope reviewing vintage rides like this are part of your plan to revamp and expand. Old guys like me certainly appreciate it!
Glad you liked it Alan! I have two more vintage Mopar reviews coming in the next 2 weeks, after that I have no others planned, but I'd love to do more if people offer their classics.
You easily just made one of the best old school reviews you did pulls so we can get a sensation of what it was like great review
That Road Runner has non power drum brakes. Disc brake option included power brake booster. Either the throttle cable isn't giving full throttle, or the kickdown linkage is not adjusted. The torqueflite always had a nice quick kickdown.
‘69 RR would be my dream muscle car
If the guy from "Duel" had this Plymouth instead of the Valiant he'll absolutely destroy that dirty Peterbilt
Thanks for reviewing these kinds of cars as well!
I bought a new 68 Roadrunner in April of 68, and because it was an early model, it was a post car with flip out rear side windows. Only option on my car (bought off the lot) was the 8 track tape player. The tape player was part of the factory radio (not lower on the dash). The powertrain was 335 hp 383, 4 speed with bench seat, and 3:23 gears. The 4 speed was standard, and the 727 Torqueflite auto was optional. Note: the four speed Roadrunners did not have a center console, so if you wanted that feature you had to buy a GTX.
Great review Matt, awesome classic muscle!
I had a 68 and 1/2 Roadrunner bench seat 4 Speed and it didn't have the Chrome going across the back of the trunk lid it was truly a great car
Great review! You are so knowledgeable on your classic cars especially Mopars.
This is where I think the automakers are missing the point. Why do all performance car have to be fully loaded and heavy? Why can't they offer so big performance numbers but with fewer options?
I'm not a fan of American cars being manufactured today, but American cars were super gorgeous looking back in those years.
Great review Matt! Hopefully the channel does well and continues on!
all his reviews r great
Love the videos, Matt. You should review a 454 Chevelle SS, or try to find a 1969 Camaro ZL1.
Thanks! I'd love to review both if I ever have an opportunity!
and a Crown Vic
I've seen one 69 ZL1, It belonged to Reggie Jackson. Maybe a Yenko 427 Camaro would be easier to find.
This was a great video! Thanks for sharing Matt.
Thanks for watching it!
Driving a fine piece of art. That car is special.
These cars exhilarated all five senses!
All '68 Roadrunners had bench seats. Bucket seats were not available as an option until '69.
I had a '68 Roadrunner Sedan (Gold with black vynl top) and it's still my favorite of all the vehicles I've owned. Mine had the turn signal indicator out on the respective fenders. I don't know why only some of these had that feature. 🤔
My dad has owned many throughout the years. Amazing car
Nice!
I sat in the 4-speed manual RR at an Autoshow back in 68. It was green and awesome.
What is the dodge equivalent to this? the super bee?
Jandin Cheatwood yes.
Coronet super bee
In my understanding the B body platform began somewhat prior to the "golden age" IMHO!... of '68-'70 Muscle Car Pentastars (some purists would argue but I'll leave that to them)... The '68 - '70 models all had virtually identical uni-body subframes with adaptations and allowances made for differences in hoods, doors, deck lids and exterior sheet metal... To evolve from the previous iteration of the "boxy" pre '68 look all of them visually expressed when looking down the side back to front a sexy "Coke" bottle silhouette!, which made them IMO very desirable!... Chrysler Corporation designers really made magic!... Drivetrains were very similar from trannies (3 speed Torqueflites and 4 speed manuals) to the rear end (Suregrip to HD Dana 60)... Base engines were predicated on the models upgrade appointments from slant sixes, 318 cu. in. 340 cu. in. for the least expensive options to the more muscular brethren based variously upon a base 383 cu. in with various up-gradeable performance interior components (Windage trays and beefier camshafts)... More serious enthusiasts could opt for 400 cu. in or models equipped with 426 cu. in. and 440 cu. in. Arguments will ensue for the top two options but with the 426 cu. in. putting out 425 h.p. in stock configuration (Estimated for insurance purposes) and with "sky is the limit" modifications of way much more than that, it's not hard to see why heads turn and eyes bow with respect when such a machine pulls into a car show... and it isn't hard to wonder why because "Hemis" were dominate in race competitions... For the general population so enamored from race day the engine bay stock engine compartments received differential treatment in carburetion nomenclature: e.g., 383 roadrunner engine, 6 BBL (Plymouth) vs 6Pack (Dodge) all invariably tagged on the breather assembly...
2 Door Model B-Bodies: Plymouth: Satellite, Belvedere Roadrunner & GTX... Dodge: Coronet, Superbee and Charger...
Had one in the early 1970s. Won all races with my 383 Magnum 4 Speed on Main Street in Oxnard California except for a Super Bee and A 1956 Chevy with Nitrous. Took over $79.00 payments per month when a Navy buddy shipped out. Could lower the front of the car to get that raked look by turning two bolts near the front of the car. One of my fondest memories. Sold it to another Navy buddy L. Morales. Would like to track it down some day but don’t know how. Don’t have any other info on the car.
I had one just like it, except it was a 4 speed, and had a black vinal top, it had an AM 8-track in the Dash, it also had the same seats except they had headrest and it had an armrest, dual rear speakers and defroster same color interior and exterior it looks just like mine except for it's an automatic mine was a 4 speed and I did have a vinyl top. Oh yeah, it had a tack in the Dash. And a little light under the dash telling you when you were in reverse, I love that car it's my favorite car that I've ever had.
My 69'' Had the shoulder straps mounted in the ceiling...I never took them down ever, in fact I never even wore the seat belt hardly anybody did back in the 60s and 70s.
Wow! What a color! So refreshing! Was getting depressed from Redline recent Audi e-tron review .. Thank you for the great content!
Electric vehicle gross
Im not a fan of new cars but imagine if plymouth came back and resurrected the road runner, making it true to its roots. A true 2 door large muscle car not this 4 door charger garb. Also maybe a bit more affordable even more barebones like manual windows, locks and transmission. I know not everyone would be interested but I sure like the idea.
Don't be decieved by the 15 sec. 1/4 mi. times because that included spinning the tires all through first gear or by feathering the throttle. A more realistic time was low 14s even with some wheel spin. Add modern tires and a modern 6 or 8 speed transmission to that 383 and it will be a mid 13 sec car easy.
9:45 backroad see how it does! 👌🏻
not impressed wonky transmission! But a nice resto!!
Don C Nunez yeah but I’d take it
@@doncnunez6231 The "wonky" transmission just needs the kick down linkage adjusted a little bit. About a 3 minute fix. And when he rolled into it and it didn't kick down a gear or two, at that speed he could have pulled it down into first, which is good for around 70 mph with 3.23 gears and then moved the lever to second which is good for about 110 mph and then top end should be around 130. All these numbers based on my own experience in my 1970 Fury 1 police pursuit 440 with 3.23 gears. That car was good for 145 mph, which I did many times. Ahh to be young and dumb on bias ply tires like in 1979.
Crazy how skinny those tires are for a performance car. Times were different back then.
Haha indeed! I guess Plymouth figured serious racers would put wider slicks on anyway.
@@MattMaranMotoring and not void your warranty for having fatter tires
@@MattMaranMotoring lol
@@MattMaranMotoring lol
That's your best review yet, good to hear a younger persons perspective of something so old
Best of all didn't compair it to a new Dodge
Thanks: I actually ordered a new 68; GREEN/auto/ no air conditioning/ 383/fan Declutch/ am radio / D3LUXE INTERIOR; paying $200 Deposit to Lafayette, INDIANA Dealer... Unfortunately, decided to pass on buying , invested IN Pharmacy School at Purdue, etc..... quite a year for me 1968.....met my wife also.......
COOL 1968 Plymouth Road Runner Review
You can’t be serious. A 4-speed was ABSOLUTELY available with a bench. There were no buckets in an RM21 or RM23 in 68. The RM23 (hardtop) was a mid-year introduction. The early 68s were post only.
@11:05 The stick was STANDARD. The automatic was OPTIONAL.
A four speed could be had with bench seats.
The ultimate Plymouth GTX
From low RPM you have to snap the throttle down to get it to kick into overdrive. That probably has the 727 transmission. You can't kill them, at least I couldn't and I tried.
Ok first of all, a 727 is a three speed, NO OVERDRIVE. Second, every B/RB automatic trans was a 727. 904s were G/RG, and A/LA only.
Crossfire Injection - Thanks for the information. All I know is that when I killed my car off, it went to the junkyard with a working transmission.
I like the classic horizontal speedometer that reminds me of the dials of a FM radio.
I've had several Chry. products. Had a 69' 383 RR too. The steering gearbox is shot which is why there is so much play. That happens to those cars over time. Add a new Steering gearbox and you will see a big difference in keeping that car going straight down the road. Also looks like that car has lost quite a bit of its pep. No kickdown in the trans. Definately not running right. If I did that in my 69' you'd be be slammed back into the seat.
My 69 Road Runner had 4 on the floor Hurst shifter and 4:10 gears. Matt....drive one with that configuration and you will really have some fun.
I have something crazier coming next week, also from 1969! 😁
Right! 4.10 makes all the difference in town, and one can still hit the highway. Loved it!
That is the car I took my driving test in. Matador Red.
14:25 Yeh when you stomp it, it would choke out for a split second before pulling because the factory jets in the Carter carb were too small.
Exactly...my 69' RR did that. Had the stock Carter carb.
Probably needed the air door adjusted... Bumping the ignition timing up from factory 'granny' spec.s also helped and gave more like 360 - 370 HP...
Beautiful car with a very classic look.
In my understanding the B body platform began somewhat prior to the "golden age" IMHO!... of '68-'70 Muscle Car Pentastars (some purists would argue but I'll leave that to them)... The '68 - '70 models all had virtually identical uni-body subframes with adaptations and allowances made for differences in hoods, doors, deck lids and exterior sheet metal... To evolve from the previous iteration of the "boxy" pre '68 look all of them visually expressed when looking down the side back to front a sexy "Coke" bottle silhouette!, which made them IMO very desirable!... Chrysler Corporation designers really made magic!... Drivetrains were very similar from trannies (3 speed Torqueflites and 4 speed manuals) to the rear end (Suregrip to HD Dana 60)... Base engines were predicated on the models upgrade appointments from slant sixes, 318 cu. in. 340 cu. in. for the least expensive options to the more muscular brethren based variously upon a base 383 cu. in with various up-gradeable performance interior components (Windage trays and beefier camshafts)... More serious enthusiasts could opt for 400 cu. in or models equipped with 426 cu. in. and 440 cu. in. Arguments will ensue for the top two options but with the 426 cu. in. putting out 425 h.p. in stock configuration (Estimated for insurance purposes) and with "sky is the limit" modifications of way much more than that, it's not hard to see why heads turn and eyes bow with respect when such a machine pulls into a car show... and it isn't hard to wonder why because "Hemis" were dominate in race competitions... For the general population so enamored from race day the engine bay stock engine compartments received differential treatment in carburetion nomenclature: e.g., 383 roadrunner engine, 6 BBL (Plymouth) vs 6Pack (Dodge) all invariably tagged on the breather assembly...
2 Door Model B-Bodies: Plymouth: Satellite, Belvedere, Roadrunner & GTX... Dodge: Coronet, Superbee and Charger...
15:40...He wants his first Honda Civic back.😂😆
You got a bench seat with a 4spd also
Before you even mentioned it I heard that taking off from a normal stop engine and gear noise. That’s what I heard riding in the back of my parent’s car at a young age. We had a Plymouth Fury from the 60’s and later a Fury1970. Back then too our family just had that car. Not like a couple today with 2 or more. Simpler Times.
That's awesome, I'm sure you have lots of great memories!
Back in the day is always more of a experience then stale boring current era
Well done Matt
Gorgeous machine!
Wow this car mad looking
I had a '68 Dodge Monaco, a bigger 4 door sedan. It had the 383 2bbl and 3.23 LSD (called Sure-Grip). It had a pretty good launch for a big sedan but no top end. Decent handling for its size although I did upgrade to radials. I drove it all thru high school and college. Worse thing was the drum brakes all around would fade horribly after just a few stop and goes on the interstate.
I had a 68 Road Runner, Mine had bench seats and a 4 speed Your 15 second ET in quarter Miles is a bit off. Mine ran low 14s and high 13s. Had a 383 with 3:91 gears. Ran at Green Valley in Ft. Worth Texas. Only all White Road Runner with dark Blue interior I ever seen.
Remember, 4-speeds were faster back then. My 3-speed auto '68 ran a 14.99 best time . . .
The gearing is the key to lower times, the 3:91’s will yield the times you mentioned, which were very competitive during the sixties and early seventies.
@@bman99ss , What rear gears were you running with your 3 speed Torqflite? At the time, that transmission shifted faster than most others on the market, including manuals, unless your name was Ronnie Sox of course !
@@charlesjacobsen9895 Yeah, Ronnie Sox was a legend. And my '68 had the standard 3.23 gears out back . . .
Great video, thanks. Some sprinkling of the old stuff is much appreciated.
The 4 speed came with bench seats, the buckets were $100 extra. I bought one new in B5 blue with the 440. The price was $3400 with the options.
NOT A 68 YOU DID....!
@@willychromoga5929 69
I'm loving that color
Awesome review as usual.
Thanks Ronnie!
Since i was a kid i always said id own nothing but classic american muscle, and here i am at 22 almost done building a 3rd gen camaro & soon going on a hunt for a Duster haha, modern cars just aint for me the only thing they have going for them is the huge HP besides that they lack everything these classics have like character, creativity, they scream badass they give you this feeling that even a 900hp modern car cant compare too, and dont get me started on that mean beautiful rumble these engines have
Was in TV series "Jericho" in 2006.
My first car 68 coupe 383 bench seat 4 speed. No power anything no a/c
Am radio wished I still had it. 1977
Nice straight resto, except the body gaps but that's how they came new.
I can't think of a new car that I'd rather have than this.
Yeah right--like you would refuse the keys to a Hellcat.
I agree,who knows if the new cars will even be around in 50 years !! All that technology will be obsolete ,🤗 at least these cars are worthy of restoration
I had a 69, bought it when I was 20. Several weeks ago I turned 72 my wife bought me a 69 4 on the floor vitamin C color. I walk into my shop at all times of the day and night just to stare at it. I’m not as old anymore. I Love my wife
Nice MOPAR, could have done a better radio install.
Ah that torque flight wine. It’s all too familiar
Whine
Worn planetaries.
Love those cars, great video!
Matt has the job that we all want.
Mopar has always stayed with the performance crowd
Oh my! It’s so beautiful 😳
Beautiful car and beautiful color😍❤❤❤👌
..im a lil under the weather today, so i just watched this instead of a very clinical, start/stop/comments time stamped, lol..imna just hit some hilites..grammar will be sub par :p
*1stly!!! .. you're a gentleman and a scholar! Dude. Again, your non-biased, non jaded ride alongs are a breath of fresh air!
..ppl that have owned these cars forever or are very well off..old..grumpy :p w.e, need to watch your videos to see how it should be done. js*.
road runner: 1968 debut..B&W decal, so hilarious! The area between the grille & bumper was not open yet like the following yrs..a '68 could run a bit warm bc of that on hot days..something to be mindful of. Never buy into the 'wetter water' 'extra cooling ability' baloney of some expensive coolant additives. water & anti-freeze mix, done.
having heating issues? boil the rad core..fit a larger one in..run a taller rear gear..electric fans, all the usual cures work.
the car you're driving ..idk, may not be a full on 10:1 compression with high octane fuel..it shudda hazed the tires kicking it down from low speeds..or they installed a larger than stock cam & lost that low end "Snap!".
the 'ol 727 acting up a bit? occasionally no kick down? hmm..needs addressing. take it from me..tend to your cars when things start to get a bit off..if you wait..it'll just cost more and be more annoying as it worsens..(sends note to younger me)
The 383 used the same cam & heads as the 440. Each engine ofc had a few diff cam specs and heads changed form gen to gen..but say a 383 4-bbl did have the same cam as a 440 4-bbl and same with the magnums..road runner had a special 335 hp cam, SOOO much bigger than the 325 hp 4-bbl cam..right? well..car makers downplayed hp to garner lower insurance rates..it was likely more than a 10 hp hop up.
chrysler was very conservative with cam timing. they knew on the street, a stout/torquey cam will perform better and give longer service life. ppl into racing would simply yank their carefully chosen components and mod the car anyway.
this road runner has about a .450 lift cam..mild compared to the stuff ppl plop into their engines, nowadays.
you're correct, pre '72 cars hp & torque were rated "Gross", ie, no accessories etc, '72 up is the NET rating..accessories, full exaust, truer power rating sys.
however! since some of these cars were underrated..it kind of made the numbers..still accurate in some cases. and still too low in engines like the '68-69 road runner and Super Bee 383's. some folks tuned the carbs & distributors up in these specific cars..ran proper gasoline and could hit 400 hp on a dyno in an otherwise stock 383.
426 Hemi was rated accurately..sort of? :)
425 hp was right on..at 5,000 RPM. However the Elephant breathed much deeper..they made 475-500 at 6,000 RPM, depending on year, state of tune, fuel used.
There was an advertised red line..and a red line, actual. :D
..the cliff notes edition of 40 years of reading about 60's/70's Mopars and owning/driving them since '84.
plus knowing old, grumpy ppl (lol) that were 100% there when these cars were sold new.
_wish me luck on __#furyvanwinkle__ on Insta_ !
Same exact car my dad had same color except the flat black hood my dad had on his 120 mile n hour n second gear
Hi
I sent this video to my bud.
Good video
Shaun of NYC
Thanks for sharing it Shaun!
The only thing that Plymouth should have done was to make the standard rear gearing at least a 3:55, which is a nice compromise between performance and highway cruising, the standard 3:23 just didn’t cut it at the strip but at least you could order the track package with a 3:91 or 4:10 as an option for a little more money, and still have a performance bargain,
I love that gear wine!!!
If you are hearing Gear whine in a 727 Torqueflite Trans then that trans has problems.