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1971 Plymouth Satellite

The '71 Plymouth Satellite: a big, boxy muscle car! Think chrome, long hood, and that classic 70s vibe. A popular choice, it wasn't as wild as some contemporaries but represented a strong, reliable muscle car era. Its size and styling reflected the era's tastes perfectly, leaving a lasting impression on car culture.

History of the Plymouth Satellite

Originally launched in 1965, the Plymouth Satellite started as a mid-range model in Plymouth's lineup, branching off from the Belvedere. By 1971, the Satellite had firmly established itself as a standalone model known for its rounded lines, updated trim packages, and a growing variety of engine options. This was a time when the auto industry was accomplishing a delicate dance between power and fuel efficiency—a challenge the Satellite managed with resilience.

Photo of a 1971 Plymouth Satellite

1971 Plymouth Satellite Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Plymouth Satellite Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,931.00

Outstanding

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$37,800

Clean

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$25,700

Average

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$18,300*

Rough

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$11,100

1971 Plymouth Satellite Specs

Body Maker: Plymouth
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: RH23
Length: 203.2 inches
Width: 79.1 inches
Height: 52 inches
Wheelbase: 115 inches
Weight: 3,210lbs
Type: Slant 6, overhead valve, Single downdraft, Fully synchronized
Displacement: 225.54 cu. in.
Cylinders: 6
Bore And Stroke: 3 13/32 & 4 1/8 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.4 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 145@4000
Horsepower Rated: 27.85
Torque: 215@2400
Main Bearings: 4
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: Stamped on joint face at right corner, adjacent to number 1 cylinder bore.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Holley
Type:
4.75 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
9.25 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.95 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.83
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.8
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.21 to 1
Front: Independent torsion bar
Rear: Hotchkiss
Service Type: Hydraulic, self-adjusting drums
Service Front Size: 10 inches
Service Rear Size: 10 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 10 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: F78 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 19 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 2.1 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting RH23C1a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1-2:Series
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
Winchester Gray Metallic, Slate Gray Metallic, Glacial Blue Metallic, Evening Blue Metallic, Rallye Red, Burnished Red Metallic, Amber Sherwood Metallic, April Green Metallic, Autumn Bronze Metallic, Sandalwood Beige, Coral Turquoise Metallic, Tahitian Walnut Metallic, Spinnaker White, Formal Black, Tawny Gold Metallic, True Blue Metallic, In-Violet Metallic, Mood Indigo Metallic, Sherwood Green Metallic, Sassy Grass Green, Bahama Yellow, Tunisian Tan Metallic, Tor-Red, Sno-white, Curious Yellow, Gold Leaf Metallic, All colors may not be available in all models.
Hardtop: Opt
Torque Flite Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Radio: Opt
Power Antenna: Opt
Front Disc Rear Drum Brakes: Opt

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Detailed Specifications of the 1971 Plymouth Satellite

The specifics of the 1971 Plymouth Satellite mirror the bold ingenuity of its era. Featuring a range of engines, from the small 318 V8 to the muscular 426 Hemi, this car catered to both speedsters and everyday drivers. Its performance metrics, which included a top speed between 120-130 mph, put it on par with some of the most revered muscle cars of the time.

Perusing vintage car models is not unlike performing a classic car history report, which can reveal a car's life's echoes, much like a storied novel, through its previous owners and modifications. If you need to verify authenticity or delve into your Plymouth's past, a classic car history can provide invaluable insights.

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Famous Figures Who Own the 1971 Plymouth Satellite

Interestingly, the 1971 Plymouth Satellite isn't as frequently associated with celebrity ownership as some of its more infamous muscle car cousins. But let's not sell it short. Amongst its admirers was a particular vehicle that turned heads at auctions, attracting bids from across the board until settling in a notable garage. Though it may not resonate with celebrity-worthy glam, its appeal among collectors speaks volumes about its enduring legacy.

In exploring classic cars like the Satellite, it's often handy to conduct a thorough to ensure you're aware of any hidden history.

Intriguing Mentions in Pop Culture

The Satellite's claim to pop culture fame is perhaps unparalleled; it cruised into the limelight in movies like "Duel," directed by Steven Spielberg—an impressive feat for any vehicle. Such appearances not only heightened its iconic status but also embedded it in American film history.

Beyond the silver screen, having vehicles like the Plymouth Satellite in your collection can be as thrilling as unraveling music's mysteries of rock and roll.

1971 Plymouth Satellite Gallery

Photo of a 1971 Plymouth Satellite
Photo of a 1971 Plymouth Satellite

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Feel free to explore for these reports and more, giving you peace of mind when making your next big decision.

Diving Into Performance: Was Speed the Main Attraction?

Undoubtedly! The 1971 Satellite was a speedster's dream, donning powerhouse options that transported drivers to a world where speed limitations were mere whispers of restraint. Need to dissect its engineering marvels? A might just illuminate why enthusiasts love tinkering with these beauties.

Fun Facts About the Plymouth Satellite

While not your everyday fact of life, knowing your Satellite could outrun some of today's sedans in a drag race might come in handy during casual car talk. Its pop culture impact, racing spirit, and aesthetic appeal render it a timeless topic of conversation at any car meet.

For anyone riding nostalgia's wave, a can offer a look back into a vehicle's transformation, ensuring no detail slips past unnoticed.

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Explore Plymouth Satellite from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '71 Satellite? Think boxy, kinda like a really cool brick, but a fast brick. It's easily identified by its long, straight lines—a true product of its era. You'll notice the big, prominent grille, and depending on the trim level, you might see some seriously sweet chrome. The rear end, that's another story; it's got a distinct shape, kinda like a gently sloping roofline, y'know? There were several models, too—the base Satellite, the Satellite Sebring, and the top-of-the-line Satellite Road Runner. Each had its own unique features, but they all shared that classic '70s muscle car vibe, that unmistakable '71 Plymouth look. It's a classic for a reason, you know?

Ah, the heart of the beast! The '71 Satellite offered a pretty impressive range of engines, from the more pedestrian—dare I say boring—six-cylinder options to some real powerhouses. You could get a smaller V8, which was perfectly adequate for everyday driving, or go all out with a big-block V8—for those wanting to show off, I mean. Think of it like ordering a pizza: you've got your standard cheese, or you can pile on the pepperoni and sausage! These larger engines, though—they really made the car hum; they were magnificent! Keep in mind, though, fuel economy wasn't exactly a priority back then. It's all part of the charm, right?

Finding a pristine '71 Satellite? That's like finding a needle in a haystack—only the haystack is filled with other classic cars. Many have succumbed to the ravages of time and neglect, you see. Rust is the enemy, especially in those older cars. But, you can still find some gems out there, though; it just takes some serious searching. Patience, my friend, is key! Restoration projects are pretty common, too; folks love bringing these beauties back to life. It can be a rewarding hobby. So, while uncommon in perfect condition, they're not exactly extinct, so keep looking.

Oh, the price of nostalgia! That really depends on a lot of things: the condition of the car, how original it is, and what specific model it is. A rusty hulk might go for a few thousand dollars—if you're lucky. A meticulously restored, rare model, on the other hand? Now we're talking tens of thousands. Think of it like this: it’s like buying a painting—a beautiful masterpiece could go for millions, whereas a student’s first attempt might only be worth a few bucks. It's all about condition and desirability, basically. Do your research before you buy anything, naturally.

Like any classic car, the '71 Satellite has its quirks. Electrical gremlins are pretty common—those old systems can be finicky. Rust, as mentioned before, is a huge issue; it loves to eat these old beauties alive, slowly but surely. The braking system—well, let's just say brake technology wasn't what it is today—so be prepared to do some work, probably. And always have a mechanic look it over before you drop any serious cash; it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. Think of it as getting a second opinion from a doctor before major surgery; it's just smart.