This 1971 Plymouth Valiant Scamp isn’t your average classic. Originally sold by Fort & Schock Motor Company of Pekin, Illinois, this Scamp spent decades with its original owner before undergoing a transformation that turned it into a head-turning restomod. Purchased by the current seller in 2018, this Valiant Scamp now boasts a potent 360ci V8 engine, a Tremec TKX five-speed manual transmission, and a host of other upgrades that make it a true driver’s car.
From Gold Leaf to Metallic Brown: A Stunning Exterior
Originally finished in Gold Leaf (GY8) with a gold vinyl top, the Scamp received a stylish makeover in 2008 with a metallic brown paint reminiscent of Chrysler’s Dark Chestnut (T9). The 1970 Dodge Dart front clip adds a unique touch, while the hood scoop and locking pins hint at the power lurking beneath. Other exterior features include dual color-keyed side mirrors and a Dodge trunklid badge. It’s worth noting that the photo gallery showcases some rust on the right quarter panel, along with areas of paint bubbling and other minor imperfections.
Stance and Grip: Upgraded Wheels and Tires
The Scamp’s stance is aggressive, thanks to staggered-diameter body-color steel wheels with chrome hubcaps. The front wheels wear 215/70R14 Hankook Kinergy ST tires, while the rear wheels sport wider 275/60R15 Cooper Cobra Radial G/T rubber. Traction bars have been added to the rear leaf springs to improve grip, and braking is handled by Scarebird Classic Brakes front discs, rear drums, and a DoctorDiff aluminum master cylinder.
A Comfortable Cabin: Yellow Vinyl and Brown Carpeting
Inside, the cabin features reupholstered front and rear bench seats in eye-catching yellow vinyl, complemented by a matching headliner and door panels. Replacement brown carpeting covers the floors, and the car is equipped with front shoulder belts and rear lap belts for safety.
Instrumentation and Controls: A Driver-Focused Cockpit
The three-spoke steering wheel frames a 120-mph speedometer, while an AutoMeter Sport-Comp tachometer and auxiliary gauges are positioned to the right of the steering column. A replacement fuel-level gauge and a Real Time Engineering voltage limiter were installed by the seller. The five-digit odometer shows 60k miles, with approximately 25k miles added during the seller’s ownership. The true mileage is unknown.
The Heart of the Beast: A Powerful 360ci V8
Originally equipped with a 318ci V8, the Scamp now packs a punch with a 360ci V8 sourced from a 1977 Dodge truck. The engine, boasting an 11.0:1 compression ratio, has been meticulously built with performance in mind. Key features include:
- IMM Engines aluminum cylinder heads
- Holley Brawler Race 850-cfm four-barrel carburetor
- Victor 340 ported intake manifold with 1″ spacer
- Keith Black KB107STD pistons
- Eagle Specialty Products I-beam connecting rods
- PRW Power PQx adjustable stainless-steel rocker arms
- B3 Racing Engines rocker-arm geometry-correction kit
- Isky Racing Cams solid flat-tappet camshaft
- MSD electronic ignition
A recent oil change was performed in late 2024. The trim tag has been removed and is pictured in the gallery.
Shifting Gears: A Five-Speed Manual Transmission
The Tremec TKX five-speed manual transmission, sourced from Silver Sport Transmissions, was installed by the seller. It sends power to the rear wheels through a McLeod Racing Street Extreme clutch, a hydraulic release bearing, and a shortened rear axle with a Sure Grip differential and Richmond 4.11:1 gears. The dual exhaust system, featuring 1 7/8″ TTi Exhaust headers, 3″ pipes, and FlowFX mufflers, ensures a throaty exhaust note.
Documentation: A Piece of History
The original window sticker, showing delivery to Fort & Schock Motor Company and a total price of $3,578.40, is included. A copy of the car’s 1971 title, a 1998 Illinois registration slip, and production broadcast sheets are also available.
Summary/Specs List:
- Model: 1971 Plymouth Valiant Scamp
- Engine: 360ci V8 (from a 1977 Dodge truck)
- Transmission: Tremec TKX five-speed manual
- Exterior Color: Metallic Brown (originally Gold Leaf)
- Interior: Yellow vinyl
- Mileage: 60,000 (displayed, true mileage unknown)
- Notable Modifications: 1970 Dodge Dart front clip, upgraded engine, five-speed transmission, narrowed rear end, upgraded brakes, and more.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: bringatrailer.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
