At times, determining the desirability of a classic muscle car can be challenging. The internet is awash with sites loaded with contradictory information, although some people go old-school by resorting to various reference books. Alternatively, you can take a peek at an auction like the one for this genuine 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda to realize you’ve struck automotive gold. It presents superbly, having recently come off the back of a total restoration. Located in Newmarket, New Hampshire, you will find the ‘Cuda listed for sale here on eBay. The fact that it has attracted twenty-two bids may not seem astounding, but when you consider that the bidding has pushed the price to $233,100, that changes things significantly. More sobering still, that figure still leaves the Plymouth short of the reserve. There’s still time to stake your claim if you’d like to find this ‘Cuda parked in your garage.

The history of this ‘Cuda is unclear, but there’s no doubt that it presents beautifully after its recent restoration. Its Code W1 White paint shines impressively, with no flaws or issues to report. The same is true of the Black vinyl top, and all of this is consistent with the information provided on the Fender Tag. The listing tends to indicate that the car may have been rust-free before the restoration process commenced because the seller refers to the body as “all original.”. The panels are laser straight, with no blemishes or other problems. The gaps are tight and consistent, while the black “Hemi” striping looks crisp and clean. The chrome shines winningly, the Rally wheels are perfect, the glass is flawless, and it wouldn’t be stretching credibility to describe the car’s overall condition as showroom fresh.

The news with this ‘Cuda remains consistent when we place it on a lift and wander around underneath. The floors and frame look rock-solid, with no evidence of surface corrosion or penetrating rust. The restorers have undersealed the vehicle, which should help it remain structurally sound for decades to come. There is no evidence of fluid leaks or other issues, and you could choose to eat off any surface under this car with complete confidence.

It seems that the owner didn’t spare the cash on any aspect of this ‘Cuda, because its Black interior presents in as-new condition. There is no sign of any wear or physical damage on any upholstered surfaces, while the carpet is spotless. The dash and pad are free from cracks, which is also true of the console. The faux woodgrain trim on the dash and console has avoided the lifting that can plague this type of material, and that beautiful wheel looks perfect. The original owner ordered this iconic muscle car with a Rally gauge pack, a factory tachometer, and a Phillips AM radio/8 track player. It appears that these items remain intact, adding to the impression that this car has just rolled off the production line in Hamtramck, Michigan.

Okay, I’ve teased you for long enough! Now it’s time to start looking at the mechanical DNA of this ‘Cuda. Its engine bay is occupied by the legendary 426ci Hemi V8 that churns out 425hp. The rest of the drivetrain includes an A-727 automatic transmission, a Dana 4.10 Sure Grip rear end, and power front disc brakes. There weren’t many muscle cars that could live with the Hemi ‘Cuda in a straight line during this era. Pointed at a ¼ mile, this beast could storm through in 13.5 seconds before winding its way beyond 140mph. If you placed this ‘Cuda next to most modern offerings, it wouldn’t hang its head in shame. The engine bay presents as spotlessly as you might expect from a vehicle with this car’s history. It is as immaculate as the rest of the car, but its beauty is more than skin-deep. It is a numbers-matching classic that runs and drives well. The owner uses it primarily for car shows, but it would be tempting to take this Plymouth out on the streets to see the attention it would attract. I will sound one note of caution. The seller indicates that the car currently sports electronic fuel injection. While this would undoubtedly improve the Hemi’s manners, it isn’t clear whether he has retained the original intake and carburetors. Given his attention to detail elsewhere on this ‘Cuda, I suspect that he probably has. If not, the buyer may be facing a shopping expedition to find the correct parts.

One of the joys of writing for Barn Finds is having the privilege to feature cars like this 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda. Its rarity is beyond question because while Plymouth produced 666 examples of the Hemi ‘Cuda during 1970, a mere 369 were the Hardtop equipped with an automatic transmission. That begs the question of where bidding is likely to head on this classic, and that is impossible to determine. I wouldn’t be surprised if it has to head beyond $300,000 before it meets reserve, and from there, the sky is the limit. If the right people are bidding, the current figure could potentially double before the hammer falls. Even if this car is beyond your means, the auction could be worth watching out of a sense of fascination.