The 1970 Plymouth Cuda stands as a monumental figure in the history of American performance, marking the peak of the muscle car wars. This specific example, finished in the legendary Plum Crazy purple, has undergone a meticulous nut-and-bolt restoration. Using original and NOS parts, the rebuild brings the vehicle back to its factory-delivered glory. It is a car that demands attention, not just for its vibrant color, but for the raw mechanical excellence it represents. For Mopar enthusiasts, this is a rare chance to see a truly authentic piece of history.
Rarity and Concours Restoration Quality
Finding a high-quality 1970 Plymouth Cuda is difficult, but this particular unit is one of only 902 coupes produced that year. It features the coveted combination of the 440 Six Pack engine and a four-speed manual gearbox. The restoration process focused on preserving the original broadcast sheet and the factory-correct drivetrain components. Every bolt was tightened with precision to ensure the car looks and performs as it did on the showroom floor. Consequently, this vehicle serves as a definitive benchmark for collectors seeking ultimate authenticity in their lineup.
Iconic Styling and Shaker Hood Details
The exterior of this 1970 Plymouth Cuda is draped in the striking FC7 In-Violet paint, commonly known among fans as Plum Crazy. It is equipped with the famous N96 Shaker hood, which vibrates with the engine’s pulse and feeds air directly to the carburetors. Black “Hockey Stick” stripes run along the rear quarters, providing a sharp contrast to the purple bodywork. A rear spoiler and Goodyear Polyglas GT tires complete the aggressive, track-ready aesthetic of the vehicle. These visual elements defined the era and continue to inspire modern muscle car designs today.
A Driver-Focused Black Vinyl Interior
Inside the cabin, the 1970 Plymouth Cuda offers a Spartan but purposeful environment tailored for the serious driver. Black vinyl bucket seats provide a comfortable place to sit while navigating the power of the big-block V-8. The interior remains faithful to the original specifications, featuring a functional AM/FM radio and a clean dashboard layout. Every handle and switch feels solid, reflecting the high-quality materials used during the extensive restoration process. It is a cockpit that encourages you to focus on the road and the sound of the engine.
The Thrill of the Pistol Grip Shifter
One of the most iconic features inside this 1970 Plymouth Cuda is the wood-trimmed Pistol Grip shifter. This design allows the driver to row through the four-speed manual transmission with incredible confidence and speed. It is a tactile reminder of the era when mechanical connection was the most important part of the driving experience. Moving through the gears provides a visceral satisfaction that modern automatic systems simply cannot duplicate. The shifter is perfectly positioned to give the pilot total control over the 4.10 Dana 60 rear axle.
Engine Performance and Six Pack Specifications
The legendary 440 CI V-8 engine sits under the hood of this 1970 Plymouth Cuda, featuring the famous “Six Pack” carburetor setup. This configuration utilizes three two-barrel carburetors to deliver an immense surge of power and a distinctive intake roar. With the original four-speed manual transmission, the car provides a raw and unfiltered connection to the pavement. Performance is further bolstered by the Super Performance Axle package, ensuring maximum traction during hard acceleration. This powertrain represents the absolute limit of what was available for street-legal muscle in the early seventies.
Summary of the Plum Crazy Icon
The 1970 Plymouth Cuda is a breathtaking example of what makes the Mopar hobby so enduring and exciting for collectors. By combining a rare factory specification with a flawless concours restoration, this car bridges the gap between art and machine. It carries the weight of its history through original documentation and a matching-numbers drivetrain. As it approaches the auction block, it serves as a vibrant reminder of a time when horsepower was king. This Cuda is not just a vehicle; it is a permanent piece of American performance culture.
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Source: mecum.com
