The 1970 Plymouth Cuda – A True American Legend
If there’s one classic muscle car that stands out as a true icon of American automotive history, it’s the 1970 Plymouth Cuda. With its unmistakable styling, unmatched power, and a legacy that still captivates enthusiasts today, the ’70 Cuda is a timeless masterpiece. And if you’re lucky enough to come across a genuine ’70 Cuda with matching numbers, a build sheet, and a fender tag, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’ll take a closer look at one such remarkable specimen – a 1970 Plymouth Cuda in its prime, boasting its originality and exhilarating performance.
True Authenticity: A Real Cuda with Matching Numbers
This 1970 Plymouth Cuda is not just a classic; it’s the real deal. The car proudly boasts matching numbers, a feature that ensures all its key components, from the engine to the transmission, are original and precisely as they were when the vehicle left the factory. This level of authenticity is a testament to the care and dedication of its owner in preserving a piece of automotive history.
A Journey of Restoration: Ground-Up Excellence
This Cuda has undergone a ground-up restoration, a process that breathes new life into an already legendary vehicle. Every inch of its body has been meticulously restored, resulting in an exceptionally clean and straight appearance. When scrutinizing the body, you’ll find all panels fitting precisely, and the door shuts with the precision of a new car. There are no signs of damage or rust bubbles, leaving no doubt that this Cuda is a prime example of automotive excellence.
The Lime Green Metallic paint, which is true to the car’s original color, shines brilliantly with an even metal flake layout and a glossy finish. The Cuda’s signature gills along the rockers, hockey stick stripes, rubber front bumper, and road lamps are all true to its classic design. The vinyl top is brand new, as is the stainless trim that surrounds it. The grill has been repainted, and the blacked-out tail panel and rechromed bumper in the rear give it an authentic, restored look. Additionally, the 14-inch Rallye wheels have been meticulously repainted, and the caps and trim are in excellent condition, with BFGoodrich tires mounted for that true vintage muscle car feel.
Stepping Inside: Pristine Interior
The interior of this ’70 Cuda is as impressive as its exterior. The seats feature good cushions and appear as if they’ve just been upholstered. A new carpet graces the floor, while the headliner is fresh and fits snugly. The visors and mirror are in excellent condition, and even the dome light works. The door panels have been thoughtfully replaced, and all plastic trim components are in great shape. The original dash pad, with minor cracks near the speaker, showcases the car’s originality. The instrument panel, heater controls, knobs, original radio, and gauges all look mint. The steering column and woodgrain steering wheel are in exceptional condition, and the glovebox contains the owner’s manual.
Unleash the Power: The Heart of the Cuda
Under the hood of this ’70 Cuda resides the original, numbers-matching 340 cubic inch V8 engine, which has been meticulously maintained to stock specifications. The manifolds and valve covers remain faithful to the era, and the engine bay is neatly painted. The pulleys, brackets, alternator, and power steering components all appear in superb condition, as do the power brakes. A correct Mopar radiator, cap, shroud, hoses, and clamps round out the engine compartment. The cowl and core support bear matching VIN numbers, while the fender tag remains intact, attesting to the authenticity of this Cuda.
Pristine Trunk: A Rare Bonus
The trunk of this ’70 Plymouth Cuda is equally clean, with gloss green paint on the trunk floor, jamb, and under the trunk lid. The trunk mat, weatherstrip, and sticker all look brand new, and a Rallye wheel with a Goodyear tire, never used, stands ready as a spare.
A Solid Foundation: Restored Undercarriage
Beneath the surface, this Cuda has seen extensive restoration. The front end was disassembled and fitted with new bushings, shocks, ball joints, and steering components. In the rear, the leaf springs, bushings, and shocks have all been replaced. The brakes, with discs up front, have been meticulously rebuilt, and the e-brake assembly is fully operational. The fuel system, including the tank, sending unit, and lines, has been replaced.
The engine and transmission are clean, with a correct 727 Torqueflite automatic transmission and an 8 3/4 rear end featuring Sure Grip 3.23 gears. The floors and frame rails are exceptionally dry, with crisp seams. The Cuda sports a correct dual exhaust system, complete with resonators in the rear and square tips, adding a satisfying growl to the vehicle’s performance.
In conclusion, the 1970 Plymouth Cuda is more than just a classic muscle car; it’s an embodiment of American automotive heritage. This particular Cuda, with its matching numbers, fender tag, and build sheet, has been meticulously restored to maintain its authenticity and charm. It’s a rare gem, showcasing both the beauty of its Lime Green Metallic exterior and the power of its 340 V8 engine. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a passionate enthusiast, this ’70 Cuda is a true collector’s dream, encapsulating the spirit of the golden age of muscle cars.