PLYMOUTH - 1971 brought the first major changes. The GTX and Road Runner's wheelbase went down from 116 to 115 inches. Engine sizes were, GTX: 440-4, 440-6, 426 & Road Runner: 440-6, 426, 383 & 340.
In 1972, the Hemi and 440 six-barrel dropped out of the picture, and the 383 was bored out to become the 255 (net) hp 400. Electronic ignition, a Chrysler invention, became standard. The good news was an optional 240 hp (net) 340 engine - the shape of things to come, and a lighter source of power. You could also go for a 280 hp (net) 440. The 340 was later replaced by the 360, which had less power than the original 340; the 440 dropped out of the Roadrunner in 1974.
DODGE - The "B" body was a new platform in 1971, which meant all new Chargers. There were four price classes of Chargers and two performance models - R/T and Super-Bee. It was modern, sleek and sporty. It received an enthusiastic response from dealers and customers and Charger sales climbed 50% to 75,000. In 1972 with minimal changes 68,000 Chargers were sold.
1973 Charger sales were 108,000 - the highest ever - and were stimulated by this distinctive SE roof treatment. Sales in 1974 of a mostly carryover Charger design were 60,700.
