• Year of manufacture 
    1971
  • Car type 
    Other
  • Chassis number 
    RS23U1G240852
  • Lot number 
    18657
  • Reference number 
    REC11611-1
  • Drive 
    LHD
  • Condition 
    Used
  • Location
    United Kingdom
  • Exterior colour 
    Other
  • Performance 
    480 PS / 354 kW / 474 BHP

Description

Extensively redesigned for the 1971 model year, the Belvedere GTX featured an entirely new body-style with a raked-back windshield, bulging sides, deep-inset headlights and a wrap-around chrome trim giving the front end its distinctly evil appearance, particularly at night. 1971 was the last year that the GTX was offered as a stand-alone model in the Plymouth range and purchasers were able to choose from a four-barrel 440 V8, a six pack 440 V8 or a 426 Hemi V8, coupled to either a 4 speed manual or 3 speed automatic transmission. Due to increasingly stringent emission regulations reducing the power (through the use of fast-acting choke systems and lower compression ratios) and increasing insurance premiums, sales of the GTX were low in their final year, with only 2,492 built throughout 1971, making these late-model Plymouths rare in their home country, let alone over here in the UK.

This example is a 1971-built, 440 four-barrel model, with the 3 speed automatic transmission. Finished in a gorgeous True Blue Metallic (B5) with black body-line painted stripes, the current owner purchased the vehicle in the US and imported it to the UK last year, with it being registered on British soil for the first time in April 2021.

When it arrived on our shores, the vendor states that the car was a non-runner and had a number of electrical gremlins, however, in subsequent months, the car has been fully worked-through, with all major faults rectified. This work included attention to the electrical system, brakes, audio and cabin heating system, with the result that all major systems are working as they should be, although our vendor does note that a few of the gauges are inoperable at the present time.

Under the bonnet, the 400ci engine was certified to be original although the vendor has been unable to independently confirm this, however, the VIN Decoder lists the engine from new as a "440 4bbl V8 high performance"  Whilst it has largely been left alone, the engine does benefit from a new Holley carburettor, and is reported to be in full running order with a glorious V8 soundtrack from the twin-exit exhaust.

Inside, the GTX came with a strong original specification from the factory including wood panelling and a plus interior trim. The vendor has added a period-look AM/FM radio with smartphone connectivity and new over-mats for added comfort, without taking away from the period looks and style of this V8-powered piece of 70s Americana.

Presented in very good condition throughout, but with potential to take the car to the next level should the next owner wish to do so, this is a great opportunity to acquire a running, driving and useable example of the 440ci-engined GTX from the final year of production. Ready to enjoy, fettle and turn plenty of heads wherever you go!