If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a rare piece of Mopar history, Hemmings is giving collectors and enthusiasts a golden opportunity. Up for auction is a restored, numbers-matching 1971 Plymouth ’Cuda Convertible, equipped with a 5.6-liter (340 cubic-inch) small-block LA V8 and a heavy-duty four-speed manual transmission. This isn’t just another muscle car—it’s one of the rarest combinations built during the golden era of Detroit horsepower.
A Convertible Few Could Buy New –
For 1971, Plymouth only built 292 (some sources say 374) ’Cuda convertibles. Of those, only 30 left the factory with the 340 V8 paired to a four-speed manual transmission. To make this car even more special, it was one of just five exported to Canada when new. Today, it resides in Florida, presented with a clean title and fresh from a meticulous rotisserie restoration.
Finished in High-Impact TorRed –
The car features Plymouth’s legendary TorRed (EV2), a high-impact color that evokes the 1970s muscle era. The body, disassembled and fully refinished on a rotisserie, looks flawless. From every angle, the car captures the brash personality that made the ’Cuda one of the most recognizable E-bodies. Correct V6X billboard stripes run down the flanks, and chrome N42 exhaust tips round out the package. A Shaker hood, not originally on the car, was added during the restoration to enhance the aggressive look.
Factory Powertrain, Fully Restored –
Under the hood is the original, numbers-matching 340 V8, rated at 275 horsepower when new. During the restoration, the engine was refreshed, repainted, and detailed back to its factory specifications. It’s backed by the robust A833 four-speed transmission, now sporting a new clutch for reliability. Power steering, power brakes with front disc brakes, and power windows enhance comfort and usability in this high-performance convertible.
A Driver-Focused Interior –
Inside, the restored black interior features bucket seats, a console, and the famous pistol-grip shifter. The original AM radio has been swapped for a more modern AM/FM CD unit, but the overall presentation remains authentic. A new Black convertible top complements the look, while the original side glass and a replaced windshield and rear glass complete the details.
Documentation and Extras –
This car isn’t just about looks. The sale includes extensive photographic documentation of the restoration, along with original components, such as the hood (currently in primer) and the factory air cleaner. For the serious buyer, these extras add value and authenticity.
Mopar Muscle Legacy –
The 1971 model year is one of the most sought-after among Mopar collectors. By 1972, Chrysler had already begun scaling back on big-block offerings and even discontinued the convertible altogether. That makes a car like this—one of only 30 built in this configuration—a crown jewel for any collection.
Collectors understand that scarcity drives value, and with this being one of just five Canadian-export 340/four-speed ’Cuda convertibles, the rarity speaks for itself. Add in the restoration quality and desirable factory options, and you have a car that checks every box for serious Mopar fans.
Auction Details –
The auction began on Thursday, October 2, 2025, and will run for two weeks, ending Friday, October 17, at 6:00 p.m. ET, exclusively at Hemmings Auctions. Given the significance of this ’71 Cuda, expect spirited bidding and plenty of eyes on this listing.
