The automotive scene had changed dramatically by 1973, with emission regulations taking a big bite out of engine power. It left those with a leaning towards high-performance models sadly disappointed, and it would be years before most manufacturers would develop the ability to counter these losses. However, some individuals chose their own path, as demonstrated by this 1973 Plymouth ‘Cuda. Its original V8 has made way for a 440ci powerplant, and with the motor fitted with a factory Six-Pack, it should offer the type of power the badge deserves. The seller has listed the ‘Cuda here on eBay in Pompano Beach, Florida. Bidding has scorched its way to $30,100 as a result of intense action, and with No Reserve in play, this Plymouth is heading to a new home very soon.

I’ve long considered Chrysler’s E-Body models that first saw the light of day in 1970 as some of the most attractive vehicles to leave an American production line. From the bulging flanks to the low roofline, it hints at high performance before the driver even hits the key. The history of this ’73 ‘Cuda is vague beyond the fact that it was recently liberated from an estate sale after spending years in hiding. The experience hasn’t done the car any real harm, with the Autumn Bronze paint holding a respectable shine and no major panel imperfections. The seller doesn’t mention the presence of rust, and I see nothing in the supplied images causing concern. The trim and glass are in good condition, and while the Cragar wheels are a later addition, the original Rallyes and center caps are sitting in the trunk. However, the side graphics indicate that this ‘Cuda is more than a pretty face.

To me, the Plymouth ‘Cuda deserves something potent under the hood, and the company delivered in the early days. Our feature car rolled off the line as The Malaise Era was unfolding, and it is fair to say that government legislation had caught up with the ‘Cuda. This car’s original 318ci V8 would have developed a rather anemic 150hp and 265 ft/lbs of torque, meaning that the motor’s greatest strength was its ability to transform fuel into noise. However, all of that is irrelevant because this Plymouth has shed its original drivetrain for something far more spectacular. Starting at the front, we find a 440ci V8 that I believe inhales deeply through a Six-Pack system. It feeds its power to an 8¾” Sure Grip rear end with 3.55 gears via a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission. Rounding out the package is power assistance for the steering and brakes. The 440’s specifications are unclear, but if they match those available from the factory in around 1970, the power and torque figures should have skyrocketed to 390hp and 490 ft/lbs. That is speculation, but I wouldn’t be surprised if those numbers weren’t far off the mark. The seller indicates that their revival of this classic included replacing the oil, installing a new battery, and pouring some fuel down the carburetor. The engine fired into life easily, but the winning bidder will need to trailer this baby home and go over it with a fine-toothed comb to ensure that it is mechanically roadworthy.

Maybe I’m being harsh, but this Plymouth’s interior leaves me slightly disappointed. The dash and pad are excellent, the carpet is clean, the faux woodgrain shows no evidence of fading or lifting, and the plastic hasn’t waved the white flag. However, the seatcover deterioration is the first thing that I noticed, with the fronts looking dirty and the back exhibiting several splits. The ones on the buckets may respond to a deep clean, but I suspect that replacing the lot may prove necessary to achieve better presentation. Considering how nice the rest of the interior looks and the fact that the covers are mismatched, I believe that this could be a wise investment.

Sometimes statistics paint a clear picture about a classic, which is undoubtedly the case with this 1973 Plymouth ‘Cuda. With Listing View, Watch List, and bid tallies of 360, 116, and 64, respectively, it appears that plenty of people like what they see. Those numbers suggest that with five days remaining before the hammer falls, the price could climb significantly higher. That raises the question of what you would be willing to pay, and whether you are tempted to join the bidding war. I wish you luck if you do.