The 1971 Plymouth Cuda Convertible remains a holy grail for muscle car collectors, representing the absolute peak of the E-body era. This specific example is a verified V-code machine, making it one of only five produced with the potent 440 6-BBL engine mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. Its rarity is further amplified by a unique color palette, standing as the only known unit finished in Gold Poly with a contrasting white interior. As it prepares to cross the block at the Indy 2026 auction, its provenance is backed by a 2016 MCACN OEM Points Judging win.
Gilded Muscle and the Shaker Silhouette
The exterior of this Cuda is a masterclass in aggressive 1970s styling, retaining 80 percent of its original sheet metal. The Gold Poly paint serves as a sophisticated backdrop for the iconic black billboard stripes and the functional N96 shaker hood scoop. This car is one of only two shaker-equipped convertibles paired with a 4-speed transmission, making its visual profile as rare as its mechanical components. Chrome mirrors and Rallye wheels wrapped in Goodyear Polyglas tires complete a period-correct look that reflects a no-expense-spared restoration.
Pistol Grips and White Vinyl Luxury
Inside the cabin, the high-back bucket seats are draped in pristine white vinyl, creating a striking contrast against the gold exterior. The driver-centric layout features a Rallye instrument cluster and a full center console, but the true centerpiece is the iconic Hurst Pistol Grip shifter. Every detail, from the A01 light group to the power-operated white convertible top, has been restored to factory-new standards. This interior provides a tactile connection to the golden age of American performance, blending high-end comfort with the raw mechanical feel of a top-tier muscle car.
Six Pack Power and Track Pak Durability
Under the shaker hood lies the heart of this beast, a matching numbers 440 6-BBL V-8 engine that delivers a factory-rated 385 hp/390 PS and 490 lb-ft/664 Nm of torque. This massive power is sent through a heavy-duty 4-speed manual transmission to a Dana 60 rear end equipped with the 3.54 Track Pak. The mechanical setup is designed for brutal straight-line acceleration, yet the addition of power brakes ensures the car remains manageable on the road. Every component under the hood has been detailed to concours levels, preserving the authenticity of this rare drivetrain.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 440 6-BBL V-8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
| Rear End | Dana 60 3.54 Track Pak |
| Production Rarity | 1 of 5 V-Code 4-Speeds |
| Exterior Color | Gold Poly |
Auction Expectations and Rarity Benchmarks
In the current collector market, the 1971 Cuda convertible is often compared to its sibling, the Hemi Cuda, which commands multi-million dollar premiums. However, the V-code 440 Six Pack is arguably more drivable while remaining just as exclusive in terms of production volume. With an estimate ranging from $1,500,000 to $1,750,000, this car represents a significant investment opportunity for those seeking the rarest Mopar hardware. Its status as the only one in this specific color combination gives it a unique selling point that distinguishes it from other high-profile auction lots.
A Defining Moment for Mopar Heritage
This 1971 Plymouth Cuda Convertible is more than just a restored muscle car; it is a documented piece of automotive history. With ownership history dating back to 1982 and a restoration that left no expense spared, it stands as a benchmark for authenticity. Whether judged on the grass of a concours event or driven on the open road, this V-code convertible is a testament to Plymouth’s engineering peak. As it heads to Indy, it remains one of the most desirable American cars ever manufactured, ready to anchor any world-class collection.
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Source: mecum.com
