We always appreciate input from our readers at Barn Finds. Whether it is via feedback or by providing leads to some fantastic classics, it is a simple fact that without you, this site would cease to exist. Therefore, I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this fantastic 1971 Plymouth Duster. It doesn’t just look stunning, because the upgraded V8 hiding under the hood should provide muscle car performance. Its presentation is first-rate, and the only thing it appears to need is a new home. The seller has listed the Duster here on Craigslist in Ridgway, Pennsylvania. They set their price at $30,000 for a classic that they describe as show-quality.
Plymouth released the single-generation Duster for the 1970 model year, with the badge remaining in production until 1976. Available in only one body style, it struck a chord with buyers due to its inherently muscular appearance. This Duster rolled off the line in 1971, and it looks stunning in Rally Red with period-correct 15″ Cragar wheels. The seller describes the car as “show quality,” and it is hard to argue with their assessment. The paint shines like a mirror, the panels are laser-straight, and the underside shots confirm that this Plymouth is rust-free. That is hardly surprising, because it is a southern car that has avoided snow, salt, and other substances that can allow the dreaded tin worm to sink its teeth into classic steel. The sparkling bumpers have been triple-plated, while many of the remaining exterior trim pieces were replaced during the build. All of this is positive, but the car’s immaculate presentation is only the entree. It’s time to move to the main course.
Buyers ordering a 1972 Duster with a 340ci V8 under the hood had a very healthy 275hp at their disposal. However, this classic should offer far more, although the first point to note is that it isn’t numbers-matching. The 340 occupying this engine bay is of 1972 vintage, but it is anything but average. It received a rebuild that included a 0.030″ overbore, with 10.5:1 pistons slotted into the engine block. Throw in an upgraded camshaft, upgraded cylinder heads, an Edelbrock intake and matching carburetor, a high-volume oil pump and a larger pan, ceramic headers, and a 2½” dual exhaust, and a figure well north of 300hp should be a realistic expectation. Shifting duties fall to a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission, while the 8¾” Sure Grip rear end should feed all of those ponies to Planet Earth. The list of new parts doesn’t end there, because this Duster benefits from a new fuel pump, water pump, alternator, battery, and an HEI ignition. The seller states that the engine has only clocked around fifty miles since the build, meaning that the buyer faces the joy of breaking in the potent powerplant.
One aspect of this Duster that I find astounding is the interior, which the seller describes as original. If that is true, then its condition speaks of a classic that has been cherished and protected throughout its life. There is no evidence of wear to any of the Black vinyl, and the carpet is spotless. The gauge surround shows some slight age, but there are no major faults or imperfections. The under-dash gauge cluster is the only obvious addition, but I consider it to be cheap insurance to monitor the health of that glorious V8. There are no factory options beyond the AM radio, but I would probably prefer listening to the engine, rather than whatever tunes the local station decided to play.
Some classics have so many positive attributes that it is seemingly impossible to identify one as their greatest. Such would appear to be the case with this 1971 Plymouth Duster. From its sparkling paint to its spotless interior, it ticks the boxes for those seeking a high-end driver. However, that wonderful upgraded V8 could be the star of the show, providing the new owner with muscle car performance. The seller’s price isn’t chicken feed, but the impression is that the buyer won’t need to spend a dime on this classic beyond the purchase price. You will probably find it almost irresistible if your leanings are towards Mopar products. Even if they aren’t, it still deserves serious consideration.
This 3.91 ⚙️ equipped Duster will move down the 1/4 bigtime. Be a fun car at the dragstrip. 🏁 and will surprise a few on the street too 👍
10.5 compression will leave you searching for high octane fuel!
Note that this almost positively is NOT a 340 car. Probably a 318 or /6 car. The main clue is the non-rallye dash, which was standard on the 340 Duster, the second clue is that the seller does not make it clear that it IS a 340 car and shows or mentions no VIN. But without the rallye dash, it’s almost certainly not.
Still a really cool car though.
That is a good point. It also has a 70’s or non 340 grill. And a slant 6 radiator. As a true 340 it may get the money even though it is on the high side for what it is offered. But as a clone it is unlikely even at the reduced 27.5K price. I do like the wheel tire combo, but the stock Duster has 14’s not 15’s. It won’t be fast or quick, but it will turn a lot of heads with that nice paint and be fun to drive.
I purchased and owned a new 1972 340 Duster 4 speed car. I knew what and how to make the car run to its full potential. The options on my Duster far exceed what is depicted on the shown vehicle. Dash- Engine appointments–interior and the lack of proper and correct badging and trim pieces lend me to believing that the presented vehicle is not a 340 car. Where are the images of the fender tag or build sheet. At best this may be a driver clone and the price as listed reflects that of closer to a correct 340 Duster. I’ve been looking for a Duster like I had for over 30 years and have never been able to find one. To me I’d pass on this vehicle as listed.
Never had a problem with engine upgrades, but did he do the suspension work for a 340? Always thought these were prettier then a Challenger, cheaper too. Plus the insurance quotes were much less.