1973 Plymouth Cuda

Description

There are very few words more fearsome in the pony car world than 'Cuda. So it's almost irresistible to find one like this 1973 Plymouth 'Cuda that blends original style with enough modern upkeep to be a daily driver.

Owing a 'Cuda from this era is a bit like entrance into an exclusive club. By 1973, higher insurance premiums were killing muscle car production numbers, and Chrysler always had lower figures then the rest of The Big Three, so these are rare. Combine this with Mopar's traditionally long option list, and the 'Cuda camaraderie is often about the few ways owner's cars are alike because most are even so much more rare and unique. But one piece that everyone looks for on these classics is Chrysler's famous High Impact colors. The Sublime Green carries a great glow-in-the-dark vibrancy that comes from a professional and modern application of this iconic hue. Still, it's not so bold that you miss out on this E-body's little touches, like the hood scoops, or the red grille accents that look like the glowing eyes of a hungry wolf. In the rear the black accent stripe, rear panel, and spoiler also add an extra touch of that great aggressive feeling. This one has led the life of an enjoyed weekend driver, including the wheels being upgraded to larger 15-inch American Racing Torq Thrust units for better street performance. All of this makes for a coupe with an original pedigree, but not so preserved that there is any apprehension about taking it out on the road.

The moment you slip into the high-back bucket seat, it feels like 1973 all over again. Every inch of the black interior feels original and near pristine – from the door panels to the carpets to the headliner. You've got the desirable center console with the T-bar gearshift sitting boldly in the middle of the wood veneer. The wood rimmed three-spoke sports steering wheel feels simple, direct, and effective. The same can be said for the original heat/defrost controls and radio, which are prioritized for the driver in these classic E-bodies. In fact, the only piece that doesn't feel factory-correct is a set of newer aftermarket gauges, but these are always welcomed because you're happy to know about what's going on in the engine bay.

The optional 340 cubic inch V8 was a vital upgrade because it symbolizes the end of an era. Not long after this coupe left Chrysler's Detroit/Hamtramck factory, the first energy crisis began to close the book on powerful American V8 cars. So, just to make sure this swan song motor is running at its full potential, there are performance enhancements such as an Edelbrock carburetor, Edelbrock Performer Air-Gap intake, Davis Unified Ignition (DUI) electronic ignition, and a Be Cool aluminum radiator. All of this presents extremely well in the engine bay, with the motor and intake painted the correct light blue, and the dark Mopar performance air cleaner and valve covers standing out against the bold green fenders. You better believe this one make a menacing noise with the power adding long-tube headers that connect to a stainless dual exhaust. But more than just an intimidator, this 'Cuda is a fine driver with its three-speed automatic transmission, front disc brakes, and grippy modern Nitto Extreme ZR performance tires.

There were less than 10,700 'Cudas built in 1973, and far fewer have survived today as nicely as this one. Buying this speedy Plymouth means you're a member of a rare Mopar club, and considering the exclusivity and performance you receive, the dues seem quite reasonable. Call today!!