The 1970 Plymouth ’Cuda 340 remains one of the most recognizable figures of the American muscle era. This specific example was produced in late July 1970, marking it as one of the final units of its model year. It wears Deep Burnt Orange Metallic paint, a shade that perfectly captures the aesthetic of the early seventies. While many enthusiasts focus on the massive big-block options, the 340 cubic-inch V8 offered a balanced approach to performance. This car features several factory-correct details that make it a notable survivor for collectors. Its blend of high-impact color and a specific interior trim highlights the variety available during the peak of the pony car wars.
Exterior Design and Visual Identification
The body received a repaint in its original Deep Burnt Orange Metallic during the late 1980s. Black hockey-stick graphics wrap around the rear quarters, clearly identifying the engine displacement to onlookers. Dual hood scoops and tie-down pins provide the aggressive front profile expected from a sport-oriented ‘Cuda. Fog lights are mounted below the front bumper, a detail confirmed by the factory fender tag codes. Rectangular exhaust tips exit through the rear valance, completing the high-trim appearance. Despite some minor rust on the lower panels, the car retains all its bright rocker-panel moldings and chrome trim.
Mechanical Configuration and Chassis
A set of 14-inch Rallye wheels provides the classic Mopar stance, wrapped in Ultrax Radial GTS tires. Handling is purely mechanical, as this vehicle was built without power steering or power brakes. Drum brakes at all four corners provide the stopping power, requiring a firm foot from the driver. The underbody still shows signs of its long history, with some surface rust present on various components. However, the heavy-duty 26-inch radiator remains in place to handle engine cooling. The suspension setup remains stock, preserving the original ride quality and feedback that defined the 1970 Plymouth ’Cuda 340.
Interior Layout and Rare Upholstery
The cabin features an interesting mix of materials, utilizing black vinyl bucket seats with houndstooth cloth inserts. This specific pattern is accented with red trim, providing a sharp contrast to the dark interior. A woodgrain-trimmed center console houses the shifter for the automatic transmission. On the steering column, a Sun tachometer has been added to monitor engine revolutions more accurately. An AutoMeter oil pressure gauge sits nearby to provide vital engine health data. The dashboard retains its original Chrysler Solid State AM radio and functional cabin heater controls. Black carpeting and bright doorsill plates tie the vintage aesthetic together.
Numbers-Matching 340 V8 Engine Specs
The heart of this ‘Cuda is the high-winding 340ci V8 engine equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. From the factory, this powerplant was rated at 275 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. Power is managed by a TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission, known for its durability under heavy use. A Sure-Grip limited-slip differential helps distribute torque effectively to both rear wheels. This combination made the 340 a favorite for those seeking agility over sheer straight-line weight. The dual exhaust system provides a deep, resonant tone that is characteristic of Chrysler’s small-block performance engines.
Summary of the Late-Build ‘Cuda
This 1970 Plymouth ’Cuda 340 serves as a bridge between the first and second years of E-body production. Its late July build date makes it a unique piece of Plymouth history. The combination of FK5 orange paint and houndstooth upholstery represents a high-specification order from the factory. While it shows some signs of age, the car remains an authentic representation of Mopar performance. It stands as a functional example of the engineering and style that defined 1970.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
