What Is 1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT was a full-size performance-oriented trim of the Fury lineup, featuring a standard 440-cubic-inch V8 engine and distinctive styling such as a split grille and vinyl roof. Only 4,100 units were produced, making it a rare muscle car from the early 1970s.

Key Facts

The 1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT had a standard 440-cubic-inch V8 engine producing 370 horsepower.
Only 4,100 units of the 1971 Sport Fury GT were manufactured.
It featured a unique split front grille and vinyl roof as standard design elements.
Base price was approximately $3,800 in 1971, equivalent to about $27,000 today.
Discontinued after 1971 due to declining demand for large performance vehicles.

Overview

The 1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT was a high-performance variant of the full-size Fury series, designed to blend luxury with muscle car power. Positioned above the base Fury and mid-tier Fury Gran Coupe, the GT model targeted buyers seeking both comfort and aggressive styling in a large sedan or hardtop.

Despite arriving at the tail end of the muscle car era, the Sport Fury GT stood out with its powerful engine options and upscale trim. However, tightening emissions regulations and rising insurance costs for high-horsepower vehicles limited its appeal and production run.

Engine: The standard engine was a 440-cubic-inch (7.2L) V8 rated at 370 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, providing strong acceleration from 0–60 mph in under 7 seconds.
Transmission: Buyers could choose between a 3-speed automatic or a 4-speed manual, though the automatic was far more common, selected in over 85% of models.
Design: It featured a bold split grille, dual exhaust tips, and a vinyl roof, distinguishing it from lesser Fury trims with aggressive, wide-body aesthetics.
Interior: Included bucket seats with a center console, wood trim accents, and optional air conditioning, making it one of the most luxurious muscle sedans of its time.
Production: Only 4,100 units were built in 1971, making the Sport Fury GT a rare find today, especially in original, unrestored condition.

Design & Performance Features

The Sport Fury GT combined visual flair with serious mechanical upgrades, setting it apart from standard full-size Plymouths. While sharing its chassis with the Fury lineup, the GT added performance-tuned components and unique styling cues.

Suspension: Featured heavy-duty torsion-bar front suspension and a rear leaf spring setup tuned for better handling, reducing body roll during cornering.
Brakes: Equipped with power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drums, offering improved stopping power compared to non-GT models.
Wheels: Came standard with 14-inch steel wheels and dog-dish hubcaps, with optional 15-inch Rally wheels for enhanced grip and appearance.
Exhaust: Dual exhaust system with chrome tips provided a deep, aggressive sound and improved engine breathing at high RPMs.
Color Options: Available in 12 exterior colors, including Go Mango Orange and Plum Crazy Purple, with matching interior color schemes.
Weight: Weighed approximately 3,800 lbs, which, combined with the 440 V8, delivered a favorable power-to-weight ratio for its class.

Comparison at a Glance

Here's how the 1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT compared to key competitors in performance, price, and production volume:

Model	Engine	Horsepower	Base Price (1971)	Units Produced
1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT	440 V8	370 hp	$3,800	4,100
1971 Chevrolet Impala SS	454 V8	365 hp	$3,900	12,400
1971 Ford Galaxie 500 GT	429 V8	360 hp	$3,750	8,900
1971 Dodge Monaco Super Bee	440 V8	370 hp	$3,650	5,400
1971 AMC Ambassador SST	390 V8	315 hp	$3,500	3,200

The Sport Fury GT held its own against rivals with strong engine output and premium features, though its limited production made it less common than competitors like the Impala SS. Its combination of luxury and performance placed it in a niche segment that appealed to a small but dedicated group of buyers before the oil crisis reshaped the auto industry.

Why It Matters

The 1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT represents a transitional moment in American automotive history, marking the end of the muscle car golden age. Its brief production life and low numbers underscore shifting market dynamics and regulatory pressures.

Historical Significance: Symbolizes the last year of high-compression, large-displacement engines before emissions standards drastically reduced performance.
Collector Appeal: Due to low production, well-preserved models are highly sought after, with auction prices often exceeding $40,000.
Design Influence: Its split grille and formal roofline influenced later Plymouth models, including the 1972 Fury redesign.
Market Shift: The discontinuation of the GT trim after 1971 reflected declining interest in large performance cars amid rising fuel costs.
Legacy: Remains a cult favorite among Mopar enthusiasts and is frequently restored for muscle car shows and events.
Technological Bridge: Combined classic muscle with modern amenities like padded dashboards and seat belts, anticipating future safety standards.

Though short-lived, the 1971 Plymouth Sport Fury GT remains a symbol of American automotive excess and engineering ambition at the close of the muscle car era.