How to Buy a Classic Plymouth

Plymouth built some of the greatest muscle cars of the 1960s and early 1970s, and Richard Petty drove many to victory. You don't have to speed in yours to enjoy it, but you do have to choose one first.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Car Value Guide
• Cars

1. Know that the most collectable Plymouth cars are the GTXs, Roadrunners and Barracudas built from 1966 to 1971. These have become quite popular as collector cars in the last 10 years.

2. Consider a GTX or a Roadrunner for tough looks and excellent straight-line performance.

3. Choose the Barracuda for a car with better all-around performance.

4. Focus on convertibles or Plymouths equipped with the special engines, such as the 440-6 or Hemi, if you're after resale value.

5. Know that Plymouth built some exciting cars prior to 1966, but they are increasingly rare, and it is difficult to locate parts for them.

6. Avoid cars built after 1971 or cars that have been extensively modified.

7. Watch out for clones or those with modifications. A Satellite, for example, can be made to look like a Roadrunner.

8. Know that if the car doesn't have an original engine or drivetrain, it won't hold its value well.

9. Realize that these cars were relatively inexpensive when they were built, and most of them were driven hard. Look for signs of abuse and rust.

Tips & Warnings

• Some of the cars described above are getting quite expensive. For cars with similar performance, look for a Satellite or Belvedere with a 383.
• Some updates will add to your enjoyment, such as modern tires and suspension upgrades. If you update your car, keep the original equipment.