Parked for 45 Years: 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda

Some classic cars have a fascinating backstory, and this 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda 340 is no exception. Its first owner kept the vehicle for mere months before selling it to a friend. It only recently left its second owner after spending forty-five years hibernating. The seller performed a careful revival, retaining any removed original parts for the winning bidder. The Plymouth has generated significant interest since the seller listed it here on eBay in Newberg, Oregon. Frantic bidding has pushed the price to $44,100, which is above the reserve.

The first owner collected this ‘Cuda from the Plymouth dealership in Portland, Oregon, on October 17th, 1969. They used the car sparingly before selling it to a friend a few months later. The second owner and his new wife used this classic as their daily driver until 1978, accruing 84,000 miles on its odometer. For reasons unknown, they parked the car in the family garage, and it only recently emerged into the light of day. The storage conditions were obviously favorable because this Plymouth is well-preserved as a genuine survivor. In Violet is the most desirable shade from this era and is the color chosen by the car’s first owner. They teamed this with a White vinyl top to create a striking visual impact. The paint shows a selection of marks and blemishes, but the panels are remarkably straight, and the seller confirms this classic is rust-free. There has been no attempt to restore this ‘Cuda, with the exterior receiving little beyond a wash and polish since the car emerged from hiding. A more meticulous approach might improve the appearance while protecting the Plymouth’s survivor status. The trim and glass look great for their age, and while the vintage Cragar wheels aren’t original, they suit this classic’s character.

This Plymouth might not be the most potent version of the ‘Cuda produced in 1970, but its drivetrain components promise an entertaining motoring experience. They include a 340ci V8, a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission, an 8¾” 3.55 Sure Grip rear end, power steering, and the Hemi heavy-duty suspension package. The 340 should produce 275hp and 340 ft/lbs of torque, allowing the car to cover the ¼-mile in 15.4 seconds. That was enough to satisfy most owners, and the fact this car remains unmolested suggests that was the case here. The seller worked through a meticulous revival process, and the results justify their approach. The brakes received various new parts, including a master cylinder, wheel cylinders, drums, and hoses. They also replaced the engine belts and hoses, serviced the alternator, and flushed and replaced the fluids. Most of the removed original parts are in the trunk, which serious collectors will undoubtedly welcome. They say the car runs and drives well, but the winning bidder has a few tasks to tackle. They suggest replacing the ancient tires and recommend a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic before undertaking any extended journeys.

The ‘Cuda’s interior isn’t pristine, but the condition is consistent with a car that has clocked 84,000 miles as a daily driver. The Black vinyl trim is free from wear and defects, with the same true of the dash, pad, and console. The second owner swapped the original radio for an aftermarket radio/cassette player, fitting speakers into the front kick panels and onto the rear package tray. Reversing the change would be straightforward and is a move I would probably make. The carpet is faded, and this is the only original item I would be tempted to replace. Otherwise, the interior needs nothing. It isn’t loaded with factory options, but many will welcome the Rally gauges, factory tach, and 150mph speedometer.

It is sometimes difficult to gauge the desirability of a classic car, but this 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda leaves no doubt. There is still a week to go on the auction, and it has already received fifty-three bids. The action typically intensifies in the final hours, so that figure and the price could rise significantly. It has passed the reserve, meaning a new home is only days away. Are you tempted to make it yours?