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1970–1974 Plymouth 'Cuda

The E-Body 'Cuda was Plymouth's ultimate statement. The 1970 Hemi 'Cuda convertible is often called the Holy Grail of muscle cars, with values exceeding $3 million at auction.

1970–1974 Plymouth 'Cuda — Full Specifications

  • Engine: 340ci / 383ci / 440ci / 426ci Hemi V8
  • Power: 275–425 bhp
  • Torque: 340–490 lb-ft
  • Transmission: A833 4-speed manual or TorqueFlite 727 automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
  • Body style: 2-door hardtop coupe, 2-door convertible (1970–71 only)
  • Wheelbase: 108 inches
  • Curb weight: 3,395–3,705 lbs
  • 0–60 mph: 5.6–7.5 sec
  • Quarter mile: 13.0–15.0 sec (Hemi ran 13.1 @ 107 mph in period tests)
  • Original MSRP: $2,950 (1970 340 base); $4,340 (1970 Hemi)
  • Current value: $55,000–$90,000 (340/383); $150,000–$400,000 (440 Six Pack); $1,500,000–$4,000,000+ (Hemi convertible)

Production Notes

Only 14 Hemi 'Cuda convertibles were built in 1970—arguably the rarest and most valuable muscle cars in existence. The 'Cuda was the performance version; the base model was called the Barracuda.

Notable Factory Options

  • Shaker hood scoop
  • 440 Six Pack
  • 426 Hemi
  • Elastomeric bumper
  • Billboard stripes
  • High Impact colors

Buying Guide

The E-Body 'Cuda is the most collectible Mopar muscle car. The 340ci 'Cuda is the accessible entry point—genuinely fast and fun to drive, with excellent parts support. 383 models are the 'hidden gem' with strong performance at moderate prices. 440 Six Pack and Six Barrel cars are mid-tier investments that have appreciated well. Hemi cars are stratospheric and require expert authentication—Galen Govier is the recognized authority. High Impact colors (Lemon Twist, Lime Light, In-Violet, Tor-Red) command 20–40% premiums over standard colors. 1971 cars are slightly more affordable than 1970s. 1972–74 models are significantly devalued due to emissions-era detuning. Always decode the fender tag and find the broadcast sheet—Chrysler's detailed documentation is a restorer's best friend.

Pros

  • Arguably the most beautiful muscle car design ever
  • High Impact colors make it a rolling work of art
  • Hemi cars are blue-chip investments with proven appreciation
  • Chrysler's broadcast sheet system provides excellent documentation
  • 340 and 383 models offer excellent driving experience at reasonable prices

Cons

  • Hemi and convertible models are impossibly expensive for most collectors
  • E-Body sheetmetal (fenders, quarters) is complex and costly to replace
  • Smaller community and parts network than GM equivalents
  • Fake Hemi and Six Pack conversions are common in the upper market
  • Post-1971 models suffered severe detuning

Restoration Tips

E-Body sheetmetal reproductions have improved dramatically. Fender tag and broadcast sheet decoding is essential. High Impact color codes are extensively documented. Galen Govier's fender tag decoding service is the industry standard.