LOT 92
1971 PLYMOUTH HEMI CUDA COUPE Chassis no. BS23R1B388308
Estimate: US$300,000 - US$350,000
1971
PLYMOUTH HEMI CUDA COUPE
Chassis no. BS23R1B388308
PLYMOUTH HEMI CUDA COUPE
Chassis no. BS23R1B388308
426 CID OHV "Hemi" V-8 Engine
Dual 4-Barrel Carburetors
425bhp at 5,000rpm
Pistol Grip 4-Speed Manual Transmission
Front Independent Torsion Bar Suspension
Front Disc Rear Drum Brakes
*1 of only 108 1971 Hemi Cudas
*1 of only 60 with Pistol Grip 4-Speed
*Period racing provenance in Europe
*Owned by the son of the original owner
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THE PLYMOUTH BARRACUDA
In early 1963 Chrysler engineers put a Hemi head on a modified raised-block 426 wedge to create a competitive NASCAR engine, the 426 Hemi. It was shaped by all the experience gained in years of competition, and best of all for Mopar enthusiasts, to be eligible for NASCAR competition it had to be available in a regular production street configuration. The Street Hemi incorporated many of the race version's performance components, including the crankshaft, connecting rods and cross-bolted main bearing caps. The milder grind camshaft used hydraulic lifters and lower rate springs, in an attempt to limit rpm and keep to the 425 limit imposed by management. With dual Carter AFB carburetors, it was the most awesome engine of a period when awesome engines were the rule. History has passed judgment on the Street Hemi, making it the most sought and valuable power plant of the Muscle Car era.
The new for 1970 Cuda was now built to accommodate the legendary 426 cubic inch Hemi. At a 70 percent premium over Plymouths largest powertrain, the 440-cid 390-hp Six Barrel, the Hemi was only for serious race minded individuals. In addition to the enormous price tag, the race spec Hemi-powered Cudas were only built for two model years, 1970 and 1971 adding to the rarity and allure.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
This stunning 1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda Coupe was ordered new by the consignor's father in 1971 as an export car that was destined for competition in Europe. The original owner was the official importer of Plymouth in Denmark, therefore the factory agreed to sell him a car that he could use for racing and promotion of the brand. The car is believed to be the only 1971 Hemi Cuda that was built for export. The Hemi was one of the later cars built, resulting in it being delivered from the factory with 1972 model year features including 1972 cowl sheet metal, front seats, and four bow headliner. Being a serious performance car enthusiast and racing aficionado the car was perfectly optioned. After ticking the ultimate option on the spec sheet (426 Hemi), the original owner continued with his fantastic decision making process by specifying the legendary Pistol Grip 4-speed manual transmission. With the pinnacle of powertrains, the soon-to-be owner did not feel the need to order a radio, but did opt for the rim blow steering wheel. The exterior was finished in Double Red while the interior was done in classic black leather. Being an export car, the speedometer is in Kilometers. The Hemi is 1 of only 108 cars produced in 1971, and 1 of only 60 with a manual transmission.
Once in Europe, the Hemi saw great success on race track and the drag strip. During a 1971 rally in Finland the car went off track and slowly rolled onto its roof in the soft snow, the car had some dents in the roof but is said to have been able to continue the race and finished the rally! After a successful competition career, the car was retired and sold back to America. Nearly 30 years later, the original owner found the very car that he ordered new and raced in 1971. Having always missed the car, he purchased it and commissioned a comprehensive 6-year rotisserie restoration by marque specialist Loyd Lind. During the restoration, the body and mechanics were all restored back to original factory specifications. The interior, which is believed to be original, was in fantastic condition, so the decision was made not to disturb it. The end result of the restoration is a nearly factory fresh 1971 Hemi Cuda that is ready for the show circuit or to head back to the podium at the track. If you are in search on the ultimate American muscle car with period racing provenance that has been restored by the best, this is the Hemi for you.
Footnotes
Vehicle is currently located in Denmark. Vehicle will be shipped to the port of the purchaser's choosing at no additional cost. If you are an interested bidder outside of the US, please consult the department regarding import duty.
Saleroom notices
Please note, the title will be in transit.
Additional information
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