1968 Plymouth GTX

Buzz

As the new Road Runner dominated the entry-level segment, a well-known name reappeared to crown Plymouth's midsize muscle car lineup. In 1968, the Plymouth GTX transitioned to the revamped Belvedere platform, shared with the Road Runner.

True to its premium positioning, the 1968 Plymouth GTX was available as a two-door hardtop or a convertible, while the '68 Road Runner began with a pillared coupe and lacked a convertible option.

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The 1968 Plymouth GTX retained its 1967 powertrains instead of adopting the 383-cid V-8 as its base engine. It featured the 375-bhp Magnum 440-cid four-barrel as standard, with the formidable 425-bhp 426 Hemi as the only optional engine. The TorqueFlite automatic, a $206 upgrade on the Road Runner, came standard on the GTX, while the four-speed manual was available at no additional cost. Both cars shared similar suspension enhancements and wide-oval tires, with optional front disc brakes and a limited-slip differential. Nonfunctional hood vents were also a shared feature.

While the Road Runner maintained a modest exterior, the GTX boasted a more refined look with standard chrome wheel-lip moldings, tail-panel brightwork, and dual side stripes. Inside, the GTX featured the premium Sport Satellite cabin, complete with polished details and faux woodgrain, contrasting the Road Runner's basic interior. This distinction was reflected in their base prices: $3,355 for the GTX hardtop and $3,034 for the Road Runner coupe.

While the Hemi was a favorite among racing enthusiasts, only 450 GTXs were ordered with the $564 option. The 440 engine, unavailable on the Road Runner, was more user-friendly and reliable. Unlike the high-revving Hemi, the 440 delivered exceptional low-end torque, making it ideal for street performance.

The GTX exhibited flaws similar to the Road Runner and many other muscle cars of its era: a rigid suspension, overly sensitive power steering, and unstable handling on uneven surfaces. However, as a refined supercar, the GTX was exceptionally well-tuned.

Chrome steel wheels were available as a factory upgrade for this vehicle, as noted in a 2007 publication by Publications International, Ltd.

Car Life praised the GTX, stating, 'Few performance cars can match the GTX. Equipped with the 440 engine, it delivers exceptional value for money, outperforming most competitors in its class.'

Head back to the Classic Muscle Cars Library for more information.

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The 1968 Plymouth GTX

Specifications

Wheelbase, inches: 116.0

Weight, lbs: 3,470

Number built: 18,940

Base price: $3,355

Standard Engine

Type: ohv V-8

Displacement, cid: 440

Fuel system: 1 x 4bbl.

Compression ratio: 10.1:1

Horsepower @ rpm: 375 @4600