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Motorious
Custom 1969 Plymouth Road Runner with Modern Performance Upgrades
By Johnny Puckett,
2024-08-21
It's the best of all worlds.
The 1969 Plymouth Road Runner is a classic muscle car icon, but this particular example, modified by Hacker’s Hot Rods & Customs of Henderson, Nevada, takes it to a whole new level. This extensively customized Road Runner combines vintage muscle car aesthetics with modern performance and comfort features, making it a standout piece in the world of modified classics.
Under the hood, the original engine has been replaced with a fuel-injected 440 cubic inch V8 that has been significantly enhanced with a BDS supercharger, providing a substantial power boost. The engine was meticulously rebuilt by Vegas Machine of Las Vegas, Nevada, in 2012, ensuring that it delivers robust performance while maintaining reliability. An aluminum radiator, along with extra engine bay bracing, ensures that the engine remains cool even under high-performance conditions.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a TorqueFlite 727 three-speed automatic transmission, which was rebuilt by Bob’s Transmissions of Henderson, Nevada, in 2015. This transmission has been converted to a manual throttle body, giving the driver more control over the vehicle’s performance. The underside of the car has been coated with a spray-on bedliner, adding durability and protection to the vehicle's chassis.
The exterior of the Road Runner was given a full makeover during its refurbishment. The body was placed on a rotisserie and repainted in a sleek black using GM-sourced paint. The bumpers were re-chromed, and new glass was installed to complete the refreshed look. Unique features like an electromagnetic hood latch and dual linear actuators for the hood add a touch of modern engineering to this classic vehicle.
To accommodate the 18-inch Centerline wheels, the rear of the car was mini-tubbed. These wheels are wrapped in 245/40 front and 345/35 rear Mickey Thompson ET Street tires, ensuring excellent grip and a menacing stance. The suspension has been upgraded with an independent front setup and a live rear axle, both featuring coilovers for improved handling. Stopping power is provided by Wilwood power-assisted disc brakes, and an electric parking brake system adds convenience.
Inside, the cabin has been transformed with a blend of modern and classic elements. The front and rear seats, sourced from a fifth-generation Pontiac GTO, are trimmed in gray leather, offering both comfort and a contemporary look. The interior also features power-adjustable front seats, air conditioning, power windows, and a Kenwood touchscreen infotainment system, making it as enjoyable to drive as it is powerful. A B&M Pro-Ratchet shifter, a black leather headliner, and a custom dashboard with faux carbon-fiber trim complete the interior upgrades.
The driver’s view is dominated by a three-spoke MOMO steering wheel and Mopar-branded AutoMeter instrumentation, including a 160-mph speedometer and a 10k-rpm tachometer, ensuring all vital information is easily accessible.
In the trunk, dual batteries and a 120-volt power inverter highlight the car’s modern electrical upgrades, ensuring that all systems run smoothly and efficiently.
This 1969 Plymouth Road Runner is more than just a restored classic; it’s a modernized muscle car that retains the spirit of the original while incorporating the best of today’s technology and comfort features. It's a unique blend of old-school muscle and new-school performance that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
The Lucky Collector Car Auction will take place August 31st and September 1st. Bidding is available in person and online. The auction will feature many desirable lots of automobilia and over 70 vehicles- many at NO RESERVE.
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