- Seller: Dale W
- Location: Amelia, Virginia
- Mileage: 99,000 Shown
- Chassis #: BS23G3B519039
- Title Status: Clean
The Third Generation Barracuda range remains one of the most attractive vehicles to roll off an American production line. The low roofline and muscular stance, especially in ‘Cuda guise, makes them a firm favorite among Mopar enthusiasts. This 1973 ‘Cuda project stalled due to the owner’s deteriorating health. He would rather see it head to a new home than watch it sit on this lift to deteriorate beyond the point of no return. Therefore, the owner has listed this promising Plymouth project with us at Barn Finds Auctions.
It is worth scrolling through the image gallery to understand what this ‘Cuda offers the winning bidder. The photos suggest it rolled off the line wearing attractive True Blue Metallic paint that hides below the existing Black. It gives the car a tired and worn look, but don’t let the appearance fool you. There is rust in some lower body extremities, like the driver’s side rocker and rear quarter panels, but this classic is surprisingly solid. It is also present in some areas on the roof. However, these areas are patchable. Stripping the car for a nut-and-bolt build would be wise to eliminate the existing surface corrosion for a high-end result. The steel required to address any penetrating rust is readily available and affordable, and welding it into place would be easier with the ‘Cuda entirely dismantled. The trim condition ranges between restorable and pieces that would respond well to polish, and the glass is generally pretty good.
Plymouth’s entry-level V8 offered in the 1973 ‘Cuda was the 318ci powerplant, generating 150hp and 265 ft/lbs of torque. The original owner of this classic teamed that motor with a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, producing a car that offered very respectable performance in a 1973 context. The owner indicates the engine and transmission are gone, leaving the winning bidder with infinite choices. Sourcing a date-coded 318 shouldn’t be challenging and would be the obvious choice for those preferring authenticity. However, Plymouth offered more potent options, with the E-Body range capable of accepting anything up to a 440ci V8 without modifications. The world will be the buyer’s oyster, but they could transform the ‘Cuda into a classic that doesn’t ask for respect. It demands it.
This ‘Cuda’s interior is a blank canvas for the new owner. Some desirable items are present, including the Rally gauges with a factory tachometer, a console, and a factory sports wheel. The photos reveal the first owner ordered the car with factory air conditioning, and reinstalling it as part of the build would be straightforward. It appears the bones are there to return the vehicle to its former glory with faithful Black vinyl trim. Many existing items could be cleaned and reused, saving money on the build. Alternatively, the buyer could pursue the custom path with cloth or leather seat covers. Both are readily available, and that approach would help this Plymouth to turn heads. Interiors are one aspect of classic builds that offer scope for an owner to let their imagination off the leash, which could happen here.
This 1973 Plymouth ‘Cuda is a promising project candidate with sound bones. It is ripe for restoration, but the form it takes will be a matter of the next owner’s taste. Returning it to its original form is possible. However, bolting something more potent under the hood may prove irresistible. Values remain strong in the classic market, regardless of whether or not a vehicle is original. Recent history suggests that a high-end build will not only provide motoring pleasure but could make this ‘Cuda an excellent long-term investment. That makes it worth serious consideration.
Bid On This Auction
James226 bid $5,500.00 2024-03-19 10:59:54
Joe bid $4,000.00 2024-03-19 07:50:39- James226 bid $3,500.00 2024-03-18 08:48:45
Tom Lafferty bid $3,000.00 2024-03-13 16:46:44
Springs bid $2,500.00 2024-03-13 13:30:20- Tom Lafferty bid $2,000.00 2024-03-12 15:20:38
What’s the point of a “Date coded” engine here? Put 340/408 in it. Or just go for it with a 392 HEMI et al in it and call it a day! Who restores a 318 car?
BTW, 408-416 is the correct answer.
392 is a great idea if you like sub-optimal outcomes. 30-40 horses less than a typical 440, plus much heavier and harder to install. Also, you’ll get the added benefit of no current aftermarket support.
I suspect cold340t meant a new 392 crate engine plug-and-play.
485 horsepower
475 lb.-ft. of torque
If one wants to maintain the original appearance the 340/360 looks the same along with the 727 OD tranny would bring the car up to current standards providing performance and economy!
This car belongs to me Dale S. Wilkinson it had a 440 engine it and 727 torque flight transmission. I could not complete the car because my body and fender guy told me it was more than he could do. His name is Floyd and if any questions, email Barn Finds and they will send you his tel number.
Hi Dale. Do you have the fender tag? Also would like to see some more photos from underneath since it’s on a lift. What kind of condition are the frame rails and the leaf spring/ shackle mounts in? Any info would be helpful. I am in Ohio 7+ hours away.
Tom Lafferty in a bidding war with himself
I decided to let someone else jump in. It’s no fun just bidding against yourself.😂 I’m pretty sure it’s going to take a little more to meet the reserve.
We are almost there guys! Don’t miss out over a couple hundred bucks.
Man I wish I found this site before this car sold. Well within my budget for my next project and I’ve got the hellcat motor just sitting, waiting to rip again