A particular mannequin yr and trim of a traditional American muscle automotive, the car in query represents a excessive level within the efficiency wars of the Sixties. It mixed a mid-size physique model with a robust engine possibility designed for drag racing supremacy. The “426 Max Wedge” refers to a specific iteration of Chrysler’s RB engine, recognized for its distinctive horsepower and torque output.
The importance of this car lies in its rarity, efficiency capabilities, and its contribution to automotive historical past. Its engine was factory-engineered for max efficiency, making it extremely aggressive on the drag strip. Its restricted manufacturing numbers have elevated its standing amongst collectors and lovers, who acknowledge its pivotal function within the evolution of high-performance automobiles.
The next sections will delve into the particular options, efficiency statistics, and historic impression of this iconic car. Additional dialogue will illuminate its distinctive attributes and lasting legacy throughout the automotive neighborhood.
1. Efficiency
The efficiency of the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” was a main design goal and defining attribute. The 426 cubic inch Max Wedge engine, a closely modified model of Chrysler’s RB engine, delivered distinctive horsepower and torque for its time. This output translated instantly into fast acceleration and excessive high speeds, making it formidable on the drag strip. The engine’s design, that includes high-flow cylinder heads, twin four-barrel carburetors, and an aggressive camshaft, was particularly engineered to maximise energy inside a slim RPM vary appropriate for short-duration, high-intensity racing occasions.
The impression of this superior efficiency might be seen within the car’s dominance in NHRA Tremendous Inventory and different drag racing courses in the course of the 1964 season. Privateer racers and factory-backed groups alike leveraged the engine’s capabilities to realize quite a few victories and set report occasions. These achievements served as beneficial advertising and marketing for Plymouth and cemented the popularity of the Max Wedge engine as a number one pressure within the burgeoning muscle automotive period. Examples embrace observe information set at numerous drag strips throughout america, demonstrating the automotive’s real-world aggressive benefit.
In abstract, the superior efficiency of the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” was not unintended; it was the results of deliberate engineering decisions targeted on maximizing engine output for drag racing purposes. The automotive’s success on the observe validated these design choices and contributed considerably to its lasting legacy. Whereas difficult to drive on public roads because of its specialised engine configuration, its efficiency capabilities had been plain inside its meant aggressive atmosphere, making it a major milestone in automotive historical past.
2. Rarity
The time period “rarity” is inextricably linked to the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge,” defining a major facet of its attraction and worth. Manufacturing constraints and particular ordering choices contributed to its restricted numbers, making it a prized possession amongst collectors and lovers.
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Restricted Manufacturing Numbers
The Max Wedge engine was not an ordinary possibility for the Sport Fury. Its availability was intentionally restricted, requiring particular ordering processes and infrequently being prioritized for racing groups. The precise manufacturing numbers are debated, however estimates usually place the variety of Sport Furys outfitted with the 426 Max Wedge considerably decrease than complete Sport Fury manufacturing. This inherent shortage instantly elevates the automotive’s standing.
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Engine and Transmission Combos
Inside the already restricted manufacturing, additional rarity is launched by the combos of engine specs and transmissions. The 426 Max Wedge was obtainable in several horsepower scores, and paired with both a handbook or automated transmission. Particular combos are rarer than others, primarily based on buyer preferences and availability on the time of ordering. Documented examples of specific engine/transmission combos additional amplify the automotive’s uniqueness.
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Manufacturing facility Choices and Particular Orders
Past the engine and transmission, different manufacturing unit choices, reminiscent of particular colours, inside trims, and efficiency packages, contribute to the rarity of particular person automobiles. Particular orders positioned by way of dealerships additional individualized the automobiles, resulting in distinctive combos which can be unlikely to be replicated. Such individualization contributes to a better diploma of uniqueness, thereby growing its collector’s worth.
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Survival Fee
Rarity can also be influenced by the survival fee of those automobiles over time. Given their meant use in drag racing, many examples had been both closely modified, broken, or just discarded after their racing careers concluded. The variety of unique, unmodified, or well-preserved examples remaining immediately is a small fraction of the preliminary manufacturing, additional intensifying their rarity. Documented survivorship of those automobiles is a vital facet of assessing values.
The “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” advantages from a confluence of things that set up its rarity. Restricted manufacturing numbers, various possibility combos, particular orders, and a low survival fee have mixed to create a extremely fascinating collector’s merchandise. This rarity is a main driver of its worth and attraction, solidifying its place in automotive historical past.
3. Engine Know-how
The “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” is synonymous with superior engine expertise for its period. The 426 Max Wedge engine was not merely a bigger displacement engine; it represented a whole re-engineering of the Chrysler RB block to maximise airflow and energy output. This engine stands as a testomony to Chrysler’s engineering capabilities in the course of the Sixties, pushing the boundaries of accessible expertise for aggressive efficiency.
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Cylinder Head Design
The cylinder heads of the Max Wedge engine had been considerably redesigned in comparison with customary RB engines. The consumption and exhaust ports had been enlarged and reshaped to maximise airflow into and out of the combustion chamber. The “Wedge” within the identify refers back to the wedge-shaped combustion chamber, which allowed for bigger valves and improved combustion effectivity. These heads had been vital in permitting the engine to breathe at larger RPMs, a necessity for drag racing purposes. For instance, the consumption port quantity was considerably bigger, permitting for improved volumetric effectivity.
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Consumption Manifold and Carburetion
The Max Wedge engine utilized a singular consumption manifold designed to accommodate two four-barrel carburetors. This dual-carburetor setup offered a major enhance in gasoline and air supply in comparison with single-carburetor designs. The consumption manifold runners had been additionally fastidiously designed to make sure even distribution of the air/gasoline combination to every cylinder. The carburetors themselves had been typically Holley models, particularly calibrated for racing purposes. This setup allowed for exact gasoline metering and distinctive energy output throughout the engine’s working vary, maximizing its potential on the observe.
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Camshaft and Valvetrain
The camshaft profile of the Max Wedge engine was aggressive, designed to maximise valve elevate and period. This resulted in elevated airflow and improved cylinder filling, but in addition required a sturdy valvetrain to face up to the upper stresses. Heavy-duty valve springs, pushrods, and rocker arms had been used to make sure dependable operation at excessive RPMs. The camshaft profile was tailor-made particularly for drag racing, prioritizing peak energy over low-end torque. Examples of camshaft specs display larger elevate numbers and longer period intervals in comparison with inventory engine.
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Exhaust System
The exhaust system on the Max Wedge-equipped Sport Fury was designed to attenuate backpressure and facilitate the fast evacuation of exhaust gases from the cylinders. Giant-diameter exhaust manifolds and minimal exhaust system parts had been employed to maximise exhaust move. The discount of backpressure allowed the engine to provide extra energy, additional enhancing its efficiency capabilities. Some automobiles had been delivered with minimal or no mufflers for max move, reflecting their meant use on the drag strip.
The engine expertise integrated into the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” was not merely about growing displacement; it was a holistic method to optimizing engine efficiency. Every element, from the cylinder heads to the exhaust system, was fastidiously engineered and built-in to maximise energy output for drag racing purposes. The 426 Max Wedge stays an iconic instance of engine expertise from the muscle automotive period, demonstrating a dedication to efficiency and innovation that continues to encourage automotive lovers immediately.
4. Drag Racing Heritage
The “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” is indelibly linked to the historical past of drag racing. It was engineered not as a cushty cruiser, however as a purpose-built machine designed for one particular process: dominating the quarter-mile. This heritage is essential to understanding the car’s design, efficiency, and enduring attraction.
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Manufacturing facility Improvement and Assist
Chrysler actively supported drag racing throughout this period, offering engineering experience, elements, and even direct sponsorship to racing groups. The 426 Max Wedge engine was a direct results of this manufacturing unit involvement, representing a targeted effort to develop a aggressive engine for NHRA Tremendous Inventory racing. Examples embrace factory-backed groups just like the Ramchargers, who used Max Wedge-powered Plymouths to set information and win championships. The manufacturing unit’s dedication legitimized the automotive and fueled its recognition.
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Dominance in Tremendous Inventory Class
The 426 Max Wedge rapidly turned the engine to beat within the NHRA Tremendous Inventory class. Its superior horsepower and torque allowed it to persistently outperform its opponents from Ford and Normal Motors. The dominance on the observe translated into elevated gross sales for Plymouth and solidified the Sport Fury’s popularity as a efficiency powerhouse. Newspaper articles and racing publications from the period documented the automotive’s quite a few victories, additional solidifying its place in drag racing historical past.
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Affect on Subsequent Muscle Automobiles
The success of the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” influenced the event of subsequent muscle automobiles. Opponents acknowledged the effectiveness of Chrysler’s method, which prioritized uncooked horsepower and torque over creature comforts. This led to the event of bigger engines and extra aggressive efficiency packages from different producers. The Max Wedge, in impact, helped outline the muscle automotive period and set the usual for efficiency.
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Enduring Legacy and Restoration
The drag racing heritage of the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” contributes considerably to its worth and collectability immediately. Many lovers search to revive these automobiles to their unique racing specs, preserving a bit of automotive and drag racing historical past. The automobiles are ceaselessly showcased at classic racing occasions and automotive exhibits, the place they proceed to draw consideration and admiration. Their continued presence serves as a tangible hyperlink to the golden age of drag racing.
The “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” is greater than only a automotive; it is a image of a selected period in drag racing historical past. Its design, engineering, and aggressive success had been all formed by its meant goal: to dominate the quarter-mile. This drag racing heritage stays a defining facet of the car and a main motive for its enduring attraction.
5. Collector Worth
The collector worth of a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” shouldn’t be arbitrary; it’s a advanced interaction of things that mirror its historic significance, rarity, and desirability throughout the traditional automotive market. Understanding these contributing components is important for appreciating its place as a extremely sought-after collector car.
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Rarity and Manufacturing Numbers
The restricted manufacturing numbers of the Max Wedge-equipped Sport Fury instantly affect its collector worth. Shortage will increase demand, notably amongst collectors in search of to amass uncommon and traditionally vital automobiles. The less examples that exist, the upper the potential worth, assuming comparable situation and documentation. Documented manufacturing figures, although typically debated, function benchmarks for assessing rarity and, consequently, worth.
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Originality and Situation
The diploma to which a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” retains its unique parts and manufacturing unit specs is a vital determinant of its collector worth. Unrestored, well-preserved examples command a premium, as they characterize an genuine snapshot of the car because it left the manufacturing unit. Closely modified or poorly maintained examples usually have decrease values, though sympathetic restorations that adhere to unique specs can improve worth. Correct documentation of unique parts and verifiable provenance additional enhance worth.
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Provenance and Historical past
The historical past and documented possession of a specific “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” can considerably have an effect on its collector worth. Autos with a documented racing historical past, notably these with notable achievements or well-known homeowners, command larger costs. Provenance, or the documented chain of possession, gives beneficial insights into the car’s previous and enhances its desirability amongst collectors. Autos with clear and verifiable historical past possess a premium over these with incomplete or questionable backgrounds.
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Market Developments and Demand
The collector automotive market is topic to developments and fluctuations in demand. The worth of a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” might be influenced by broader market sentiment, financial situations, and collector preferences. Elevated curiosity in muscle automobiles, a renewed appreciation for Sixties efficiency automobiles, or the emergence of recent collectors can drive up demand and, consequently, costs. Market analyses and public sale outcomes present beneficial insights into present developments and the evolving valuation of this particular mannequin.
The collector worth of a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” is a composite measure that displays its historic context, its situation, its documented previous, and the prevailing market situations. Its rarity, originality, and provenance mix to determine its place as a extremely fascinating and beneficial collector car, a standing that continues to be strengthened by its significance in automotive historical past and its enduring attraction to lovers and collectors alike.
6. Styling
The styling of the 1964 Plymouth Sport Fury, whereas not explicitly targeted on the 426 Max Wedge variant, performed a vital function in its general attraction and market positioning. The design contributed to its identification as a performance-oriented car, regardless that many styling components had been shared with non-Max Wedge fashions. The Sport Fury’s aesthetic offered a visually interesting platform for the high-performance engine possibility, influencing client notion and model picture.
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Exterior Design and Trim
The 1964 Sport Fury featured clear, linear traces and a sporty profile attribute of early Sixties American automobiles. The physique integrated delicate chrome accents, a particular grille design, and distinguished rear tailfins, contributing to a way of each magnificence and athleticism. Max Wedge-equipped fashions typically acquired minimal exterior modifications, permitting the efficiency capabilities to talk for themselves. The understated styling, mixed with the potential for immense energy, created a car that appealed to each efficiency lovers and people in search of a trendy, but sensible, mid-size automotive.
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Inside Appointments
The inside of the Sport Fury mirrored the styling developments of the period, with a deal with performance and luxury. Vinyl upholstery, chrome trim, and a spacious cabin had been typical options. Whereas the Max Wedge fashions didn’t obtain distinctive inside appointments, the general design contributed to a way of high quality and class. The useful instrument panel and comfy seating offered a driver-focused expertise, subtly enhancing the performance-oriented nature of the automotive. The dearth of overly luxurious options strengthened its picture as a severe efficiency machine.
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Shade Choices and Visible Identification
The 1964 Sport Fury was obtainable in a variety of exterior colours, permitting patrons to personalize their automobiles. Whereas particular colours weren’t unique to the Max Wedge fashions, sure combos could have been extra standard amongst efficiency lovers. The selection of colour, mixed with the automotive’s general styling, performed a major function in shaping its visible identification and interesting to a specific goal market. For instance, darker colours like black or darkish blue might need been perceived as extra aggressive and performance-oriented.
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Wheels and Tires
Though the usual wheel and tire combos weren’t particular to the Max Wedge, many house owners opted for aftermarket wheels and tires that enhanced each the automotive’s efficiency and its visible attraction. Wider tires, for instance, improved traction and contributed to a extra aggressive stance. The selection of wheels and tires turned an necessary a part of personalizing the car and signaling its efficiency capabilities. This personalization was typically seen on drag strips and at automotive exhibits, reinforcing the Sport Fury’s affiliation with efficiency.
In conclusion, the styling of the 1964 Plymouth Sport Fury, whereas not radically totally different for the Max Wedge variant, was integral to the automotive’s general attraction and market positioning. The clear traces, delicate trim, and customizable choices offered a visually interesting platform that complemented the automotive’s distinctive efficiency capabilities. The styling contributed to a mix of magnificence and athleticism, making the Sport Fury a fascinating and iconic car of the muscle automotive period.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning the 1964 Plymouth Sport Fury outfitted with the 426 Max Wedge engine. The data offered goals to make clear misconceptions and provide correct insights into this traditionally vital car.
Query 1: What outlined the “Max Wedge” engine, and the way did it differ from customary Chrysler RB engines?
The “Max Wedge” designation referred to a closely modified model of Chrysler’s RB engine household. Key variations included redesigned cylinder heads with bigger ports and wedge-shaped combustion chambers, a twin four-barrel carburetor consumption manifold, and a high-performance camshaft. These modifications considerably elevated airflow and energy output in comparison with customary RB engines.
Query 2: What number of 1964 Plymouth Sport Fury automobiles had been factory-equipped with the 426 Max Wedge engine?
The precise manufacturing figures should not definitively recognized, and fluctuate relying on supply. Nevertheless, obtainable knowledge suggests {that a} comparatively small variety of 1964 Sport Furys had been factory-equipped with the 426 Max Wedge engine, contributing to its rarity and collector worth.
Query 3: Was the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” primarily meant for avenue use, or drag racing?
The “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” was particularly engineered for drag racing. The engine’s design prioritized peak horsepower over low-end torque, making it ideally suited to short-duration, high-intensity racing occasions. Whereas avenue authorized, its efficiency traits had been optimized for the drag strip.
Query 4: What components contribute to the excessive collector worth of a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge”?
A number of components contribute to its excessive collector worth, together with its rarity, efficiency capabilities, documented racing historical past, originality, and general situation. Autos with verifiable provenance and minimal modifications command the very best costs within the collector automotive market.
Query 5: What are the important thing concerns when evaluating the authenticity of a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge”?
Key concerns embrace verifying the engine’s date codes and casting numbers, confirming the car’s unique specs by way of manufacturing unit documentation, and scrutinizing the presence of appropriate parts and markings. Professional appraisal is beneficial to make sure authenticity.
Query 6: Are there particular assets obtainable for researching the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge”?
A number of assets can be found, together with historic automotive publications, on-line boards devoted to Mopar automobiles, and Mopar fanatic golf equipment. These assets can present beneficial info on manufacturing figures, technical specs, and possession historical past.
This FAQ part has offered important details about the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge.” Understanding these key elements is essential for appreciating its historic significance and navigating the complexities of the collector automotive market.
The next part gives a concluding abstract, reviewing this car’s impression and lasting legacy.
Tips about Assessing a 1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge
Buying a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” requires meticulous inspection and diligent analysis. The worth and rarity of this car necessitate a cautious method to make sure authenticity and situation are precisely evaluated. The next suggestions function tips for potential patrons.
Tip 1: Confirm the Engine’s Authenticity. Study the engine block’s casting numbers and date codes. Seek the advice of dependable Mopar assets to cross-reference these numbers and make sure they align with the car’s manufacturing date. Discrepancies could point out a non-original engine or a substitute.
Tip 2: Scrutinize the Cylinder Heads. Max Wedge engines featured distinctive cylinder heads with bigger consumption and exhaust ports. Examine the heads for figuring out markings and examine them to documented specs. Aftermarket or incorrect cylinder heads can considerably impression the car’s worth.
Tip 3: Examine the Consumption Manifold and Carburetor Setup. Unique Max Wedge engines utilized a twin four-barrel carburetor setup. Confirm the presence of an accurate consumption manifold and carburetors, guaranteeing they’re applicable for the engine’s horsepower score. Incorrect or mismatched parts can detract from the car’s originality.
Tip 4: Assess the Car’s Documentation. Unique manufacturing unit documentation, such because the construct sheet or window sticker, gives invaluable info concerning the car’s unique specs and choices. Totally study any obtainable documentation to confirm the authenticity of the car and its parts. Absence of documentation raises questions on originality.
Tip 5: Consider the Physique and Chassis for Rust and Harm. The physique and chassis of a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” are vulnerable to rust and harm. Rigorously examine these areas for indicators of corrosion, notably in frequent downside areas reminiscent of the ground pans, rocker panels, and quarter panels. In depth rust or harm might be pricey to restore and may have an effect on the car’s structural integrity.
Tip 6: Search Professional Appraisal. As a result of complexity and worth of those automobiles, it’s advisable to hunt an knowledgeable appraisal from a professional Mopar specialist. An skilled appraiser can establish potential points and supply an correct evaluation of the car’s situation and authenticity.
Adhering to those tips can mitigate the dangers related to buying a “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” and be certain that the funding aligns with the car’s true worth and situation. Due diligence is paramount in securing a real and traditionally vital instance.
The following part concludes this examination, providing a closing perspective on the “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” throughout the context of automotive historical past.
Conclusion
The “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” represents a definite confluence of things that outline a pivotal second in automotive historical past. This evaluation has explored its high-performance engine expertise, restricted manufacturing and consequent rarity, vital drag racing heritage, styling nuances, and resultant collector worth. Every factor contributes to a complete understanding of its significance.
The “1964 Plymouth Sport Fury 426 Max Wedge” endures as a testomony to engineering ambition and a logo of the unbridled pursuit of efficiency in the course of the muscle automotive period. Its legacy serves as a reminder of an period the place innovation was pushed by competitors and a long-lasting impression was solid on the asphalt of drag strips throughout the nation. Additional analysis and continued preservation efforts are important to making sure its story continues to resonate with future generations of automotive lovers.
