The 1969 Plymouth GTX represents a pivotal moment in American muscle history when luxury met raw, unadulterated performance on the street. While the original models were formidable, this specific example heading to the Glendale 2026 auction elevates that legacy through professional engineering. It blends a classic Turquoise aesthetic with a mechanical heart that far exceeds anything available during the Nixon administration. Collectors and enthusiasts will find that this build focuses on functional strength and high-speed reliability rather than just visual flair.
A Massive 572 CI Hemi V-8 Heartbeat
The centerpiece of this build is a 572 CI Hemi V-8 engine meticulously crafted by Better Built Performance for maximum output. A specialized Hemi expert handled the tuning to ensure the massive displacement translates into smooth and responsive power delivery. Ceramic-coated headers guide the exhaust through a three-inch system, providing a deep and intimidating acoustic signature that matches the car’s presence. Every component under the fiberglass hood suggests a commitment to high-level competition and durable mechanical performance.
Manual Precision with a T56 Six-Speed
Control is managed through a T56 six-speed manual transmission, which is a significant upgrade over the traditional four-speed units of the era. A Ram RST dual disc hydraulic clutch ensures that the driver can shift gears firmly without losing momentum during hard acceleration. The interior maintains a nostalgic feel with a pistol grip shifter mounted on a custom-fabricated console that mimics the original style. This setup allows the driver to fully engage with the 1969 Plymouth GTX while enjoying modern gear ratios.
Custom Chassis and Suspension Engineering
Handling this much torque required a complete overhaul of the factory skeleton to ensure the car stays planted on the asphalt. The builders utilized custom chassis fabrication alongside a Control Freak front suspension system to improve steering geometry and overall stability. A tubular K-member and A-arms reduce weight while adding necessary rigidity to the front end during high-stress maneuvers. These modifications transform the classic Mopar from a straight-line specialist into a more balanced and predictable performance machine.
Advanced Rear End and Braking Systems
The power reaches the ground through a narrowed Dana 60 rear end equipped with 4.10 gears and heavy-duty Moser axles. Traction is prioritized with Calvert Racing Caltracs and rear shocks paired with traditional leaf springs for a classic but effective launch. Stopping power is equally impressive, featuring a Wilwood master cylinder and a comprehensive four-wheel disc brake conversion for modern safety. Massive 295/65/15 Mickey Thompson ET radial rear tires provide the necessary footprint to handle the immense Hemi torque.
Engine Specifications and High-Performance Metrics
This 1969 Plymouth GTX is defined by its 572 CI Hemi V-8 engine, which serves as a pinnacle of aftermarket Mopar performance. The combination of a Quick-Time bell housing and a dual battery setup in the trunk highlights the competition-ready nature of the build. With a 6-speed manual transmission and a 4.10 geared Dana 60, the car is geared for explosive off-the-line acceleration and high-speed cruising. Power rack and pinion steering ensures that directing this massive power remains a precise and manageable task for the driver.
Summary of the 1969 Plymouth GTX Build
This 1969 Plymouth GTX is a sophisticated blend of period-correct styling and extreme modern performance that commands respect on the auction block. From the professionally tuned 572 Hemi to the custom-fabricated chassis, every modification serves the purpose of creating a more capable muscle car. The inclusion of full photo documentation ensures that the next owner understands the depth of the craftsmanship involved in this project. It remains a standout example of how to modernize a classic without losing its essential Mopar soul.
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Source: mecum.com
