The 1970 Barracuda was a game-changer for Plymouth. With its new E-Body platform, the Barracuda was a sleek and muscular pony car that could finally compete with the likes of the Mustang and Camaro. The high-performance Cuda model was the jewel in Plymouth’s crown, and among the rarest and most sought-after versions was the 7.0-liter (426 cubic-inch) HEMI V8-powered Cuda with a 4-speed manual transmission. In 1970, only 652 HEMI Cudas were produced, with just 284 of those featuring the A833 4-speed manual transmission.
This particular 1970 HEMI Cuda is painted in the eye-catching In-Violet Metallic (FC7), one of the colors in Mopar’s High Impact color palette. The car’s striking appearance is enhanced by the Shaker scoop poking through the hood, a distinctive feature of all HEMI-powered Cudas. This Cuda’s exterior is accented with bright moldings on the wheel lips, drip rail, and body belt, as well as the famous hockey-stick Hemi graphics on the rear quarter panels.
Inside, the Cuda features high-backed black bucket seats and a center console, which houses a Hurst shifter with the iconic Pistol Grip handle. Other amenities include power steering, power brakes with front discs, and the light group (A01), which includes various lighting features such as fender-mounted turn signals, lights in the glovebox, ashtray, trunk, an ignition light, map and courtesy light, and a headlight-on warning buzzer. This Cuda also has an overhead consolette and a tinted windshield.
Under the hood is a period-correct 426 HEMI V8 engine, which has been restored to its original glory. The engine is linked to the A833 4-speed manual transmission, which is paired with a Dana 60 heavy-duty rear end with 3.54:1 gears and a Sure Grip differential. The car’s suspension features Rallye wheels and F70-15 Goodyear Polyglas tires.
This HEMI Cuda is a California car that has undergone a comprehensive restoration, bringing it back to its original glory. With its rare combination of features, including the 4-speed manual transmission, Track Pak, and period-correct HEMI engine, this Cuda is a highly sought-after muscle car that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
This rare and beautifully restored 1970 HEMI Cuda is sure to be a highlight at the upcoming Mecum Glendale 2023 auction. Muscle car enthusiasts and collectors alike will be eager to bid on this exceptional example of a high-performance Cuda. To find out more information or to bid on this iconic piece of automotive history, visit the Mecum website today. Don’t miss your chance to own this impressive and unique piece of American muscle car history.
1970 Plymouth HEMI Cuda in In-Violet Image Gallery:
