Plymouth GTX Runner(diecast 1:43, IXO)

modelcar Plymouth GTX Runner produced by IXO 1:43

Original:
Plymouth GTX Runner (from 1971)
Model producer:
IXO
Scale:
1:43
Motorized:
Showcase model / No engine
Material:
diecast
Color:
metallic
Source:
ebay Buy It Now
purchase price:
29,48 EUR
Condition:
In near mint condition
Packaging:
Original packaging exists
For sale:
Not for sale

modelcar Plymouth GTX Runner produced by IXO 1:43 2

Model from Detroit: The 1971 GTX in the context of the B‑Body models

The prototype for this miniature is the Plymouth GTX from model year 1971. It belongs to the third generation of the line, which was only built in 1971. In many catalogs you'll sometimes see the mixed name “GTX Runner” because the more upscale Plymouth GTX was technically very closely related to the sportier Road Runner. Both were based on Chrysler’s B‑Body platform with the newly drawn “Fuselage” design for 1971. The chief designer was John E. Herlitz, whose team was responsible for the swooping flanks, the wraparound bumper and the completely new roof and rear section. The Plymouth GTX had been the higher‑positioned “Gentleman’s Muscle Car” in the lineup since 1967 and replaced the Belvedere GTX. After 1971 the name lived on only as a trim package, while the Road Runner came to define the series. That makes the Plymouth GTX from 1971 a distinct model that’s easy to place in time within Mopar history.

modelcar Plymouth GTX Runner produced by IXO 1:43 3

Tech and specs: V8 power, chassis and options

Under the hood the Plymouth GTX 1971 came standard with the 7.2‑liter V8 “440 Super Commando” with a four‑barrel carb and roughly 370 SAE gross hp (7.2 liters (440 cu in)). Optional was the “440 Six Barrel” with three two‑barrel carbs (about 385 gross hp) and the famous 7.0‑liter “426 Hemi” with 425 gross hp (7.0 liters (426 cu in)). You could get either the 3‑speed TorqueFlite A727 automatic or a 4‑speed manual. Up front it used torsion bars, and at the rear leaf springs — typical for the B‑Body platform. Limited‑slip differentials (e.g. Dana 60), various rear‑end ratios, front disc brakes and the well‑known vacuum‑operated “Air Grabber” hood intake were among the options. The wheelbase was 115 inches, the overall length just under 5.2 meters (17.1 feet); curb weight varied with equipment around 1,700 to 1,800 kilograms (3,748 to 3,968 pounds). Compared with the immediate predecessor (1968–1970), the 1971 model had a completely new body, improved crash zones and changing emissions and noise regulations that already began to affect the power options.

modelcar Plymouth GTX Runner produced by IXO 1:43 4

The miniature: IXO in 1/43 with a neat execution for collectors

This model shown here is from collector Modelly member “HyakinthosHH”. It’s a 1/43 scale model from IXO, made in classic diecast. The base even reads “PLYMOUTH GTX Runner 1971” and the code “CLC529N.22”. The bodywork of the miniature captures the proportions of the real car: the flat hood with a central bulge, the steeply raked rear window and the short stubby rear with a mounted “Go‑Wing” spoiler. IXO rendered the chrome trim around the windows and wheel arches as silver strips, the door handles and mirrors are separately modeled, and the hood pins are hinted at. The wheels look like factory Mopar “Rallye Wheels” with polished inserts and blackwall tires. You’ll also notice the “440” hood decal, which thematically matches the big block under the hood. This 1/43 IXO model is easy to fit into a display case and the metal construction gives it a solid feel. The clear glazing front and sides lets you see into the simply detailed interior; seats and dash are color‑blocked, which matches the GTX’s interior styling. Collectors will also like the modestly glossy base plate and the printed name on the display plaque, which makes it easy to catalogue in a collection.

Paint, visible details and a bit of historical context

The model’s paint follows a gold tone that was available from the factory in 1971. Combined with the black, vinyl‑roof look, the side profile reads authentic; a stepped strobe graphic on the rear pillar echoes factory stripe options. At the back there’s a black “Go‑Wing” spoiler that was optional on some originals. The side marker and taillight lenses are colored red, and the front marker lights are shown in orange. The grille outline and wraparound chrome bumper are represented as separate trim lines. Overall the model keeps a faithful, scaled shape without artificial aging — just what you want from a collector piece that neutrally represents the Plymouth GTX. It’s diecast, which shows in crisp edges on the hood and fenders and in a weighty, quality feel to the body. Historically, 1971 was a turbulent year: the U.S. ended the dollar’s gold peg during the so‑called “Nixon shock,” Apollo 14 put Alan Shepard and Edgar Mitchell back on the Moon, and Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” came out and still resonates today. Stuff like that helps place the Plymouth GTX in time. For Mopar fans the 1971 version is special because this third generation was only made in 1971. If you want a compact, well‑presentable model, this IXO 1/43 version shown in HyakinthosHH’s collection is a solid, straightforward piece for the display case.