Before they were hampered by legislative requirements, American vehicle manufacturers produced cars with genuine performance credentials. The 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda 440 demonstrated that, providing enough power and torque to satisfy all but the most hardened enthusiast with gasoline flowing through their veins. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this stunning ‘Cuda. It is an older restoration, but could easily be classified as a high-end driver. The seller has listed it here on Craigslist in Granite Falls, Washington. It could be yours for $69,950.

I have always believed that Chrysler hit a home run with its E-Body cousins. Launched for the 1970 model year, the low roofline and bulging flanks gave even the most basic examples muscular looks that turned heads. This first-year ‘Cuda is stunning, having undergone a restoration many years ago. It appears that it has spent most of the time since squirreled away in a climate-controlled garage, helping to preserve it exceptionally well. The seller indicates that the build included replacing the trunk pan, which appears to have been the only rust that this classic suffered throughout its life. The Code K2 Vitamin C paint (which the seller refers to as Go Mango) holds an impressive shine, while the contrasting Black vinyl top is in as-new condition. There is an almost complete absence of chips and other imperfections, with the trim and glass showing no evidence of problems. The decals look crisp, and there are no issues with the Rally wheels.

If you thought that this ‘Cuda’s exterior was stunning, its interior may be even better. Trimmed in Black vinyl, it features air conditioning, bucket seats, a console, and a slapstick shifter. Apart from some minor stretching on the driver’s seat base, the interior seems to suggest that this ‘Cuda hasn’t seen much active service since its restoration. There is no evidence of wear on the seats or the carpet, the pad is crack-free, and the faux woodgrain hasn’t faded or deteriorated. It is little wonder that this Plymouth has accumulated some show trophies in the “older restoration” class.

Powering this Plymouth is a 440ci V8, which is teamed with a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power steering. The 440 offered excellent “bang-for-your-bucks” to buyers, delivering 375hp and 480 ft/lbs of torque. The 440 Six-Pack and the Hemi were both more powerful, but this motor proved enormously popular due to its relatively modest cost. The seller doesn’t indicate whether this ‘Cuda is numbers-matching, although close inspection reveals that the motor wears an Edelbrock intake. The listing also hints at a possible camshaft upgrade, but provides no other relevant information. It recently received new tires, and with the old ones date-coded to 2006, it is easy to see that this baby has spent most of its time hidden from view. However, it runs and drives well, and is ready to return to its rightful place on our roads with a new owner behind the wheel.

The classic market has ridden a rollercoaster during the past year, and the 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda 440 hasn’t avoided the falling values that have afflicted other desirable vehicles. There are signs that the trend may be easing, which could signal a future resurgence. Now would be an ideal time to buy if that proves the case, although there is always an element of risk in that approach. However, the seller’s price looks realistic, and I won’t be surprised if this Plymouth finds a new home fairly quickly. Will you?