In late 1966, Plymouth ventured into the premium muscle car territory with the GTX, setting the stage for the more affordable Road Runner in 1968. Positioned as a rival to the first-generation Dodge Charger, the GTX stood out with its sophisticated design while packing a punch in terms of performance.
Power Under the Hood
Equipped with Mopar’s formidable engines, the GTX boasted a standard 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB V8, delivering 375 horsepower. For enthusiasts seeking even more power, an optional 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI engine, producing 425 horses, was also on the table.
Despite its impressive specs, the GTX faced modest sales, moving only 12,010 units in its inaugural year. In contrast, the Road Runner, introduced in 1968, found favor with more than 44,000 buyers that same year. Plymouth continued producing the GTX until late 1971, discontinuing it due to a lack of high-performance V8 engines.
The GTX’s limited popularity during its time now contributes to its status as a rare classic. Notably, the HEMI version, with only 1,526 units produced over five years, is particularly scarce. The Seafoam Turquoise example highlighted here stands out as a well-preserved rarity among GTXs.
Specifics of the Featured 1969 HEMI GTX
This showcased GTX, from the 1969 model year, is one of 224 examples equipped with the HEMI V8, out of the 14,902 units produced that year. Its uniqueness is further emphasized by being one of only 208 two-door hardtops. Records indicate that only 197 vehicles of this kind were sold in the US, and among them, merely 98 featured a four-speed manual gearbox.
Adding to its distinctiveness, the Q5 Seafoam Turquoise color of this GTX is notably rare among the 1969 HEMI models. While exact figures are unavailable, the scarcity of this color on the 1969 HEMI GTX is highlighted by the author, who has encountered only one other such example.
This rare 1969 HEMI GTX crossed the auction block in 2023, fetching a price of $107,250. Despite its rarity and historical significance, this amount is considered a bargain in comparison to other high-performance muscle cars, some of which can command prices exceeding $400,000.
# FAQs
## How many GTX units were sold in the first year?
The GTX sold 12,010 units in its first year on the market.
## When did Plymouth discontinue the GTX?
Plymouth discontinued the GTX in late 1971.
## How many Road Runners were sold through 1971?
Plymouth sold 175,879 Road Runners through 1971.
## How many 1969 HEMI GTXs were produced?
In 1969, Plymouth produced 14,902 GTXs, with only 224 featuring the HEMI V8.
## What is the significance of the Seafoam Turquoise color?
The Seafoam Turquoise color on the 1969 HEMI GTX is considered rare, with limited information available, making this example stand out among its counterparts.
## How much did the featured 1969 HEMI GTX sell for?
The showcased 1969 HEMI GTX sold for $107,250 at auction in 2023.
