Car: Plymouth GTX
Year: 1970
What makes it special: The GTX was introduced as the Belvedere GTX in 1967 by the Plymouth division. It was positioned as a mid-sized upscale-trimmed performance muscle car through the 1971 model year. The 1970 GTX received a minor redesign with a new grille and rear taillights. Sales were low as the car did not look much different from the Road Runner. Stylists made the lines smoother, and a “power bulge” hood was introduced, as well as non-functional rear brake air scoops. The convertible body style was no longer available.
What made it famous: The Air Grabber hood returned, but instead of having two narrow openings running length-wise as in 1969, it had one opening scoop located on the power bulge. The GTX was available with the standard 440 4-barrel carburetor. Optional were the 440+6 barrel, consisting of three 2-barrel carburetors, and the 426 Hemi V8’s. In keeping with the GTX marketing strategy, the 1970 model included many standard features.
Why I would want one: I love the Road Runner for it’s raw, factory Hot-Rod design, but for that same power but creature comforts, I love the GTX, even though the added comforts slow it down slightly due to added weight.
Fun fact: The GTX was positioned as a “Gentleman’s Muscle Car.”