1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda
The 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda is a rare and highly sought-after muscle car that represents the peak of Mopar performance during the golden age of American car culture. It is said that only 108 examples were produced.
At the heart of this Barracuda is the legendary 426ci OHV Hemi V8 engine, equipped with dual 4-barrel carburetors and producing an impressive 425 horsepower at 5,000 rpm.
The Hemi engine was the ultimate option for serious performance enthusiasts, commanding a significant 70 percent premium over Plymouth’s already potent 440ci, 390-hp six barrel powerplant.
The 426 Hemi incorporated many components from its NASCAR-winning counterpart, including a robust crankshaft, connecting rods, and cross-bolted main bearing caps, making it the most sought-after and valuable engine of the muscle car era.
Mated to the Hemi V8 is a 727 TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission. A 4-speed manual transmission with the iconic “Pistol Grip” shifter was also available.
The Hemi ‘Cuda featured high-back bucket seats upholstered in vinyl, offering excellent support during spirited driving.
The dashboard was a study in simplicity, with a large speedometer and tachometer prominently displayed, flanked by smaller gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, and engine temperature.
The three-spoke steering wheel was designed to provide a clear view of the gauges while offering a comfortable grip.
A center console was optional, housing the gear shifter and additional storage space. When equipped, the console was often finished in a woodgrain trim, adding a touch of sophistication to the otherwise performance-oriented interior.
While the interior was not as luxurious as some of its competitors, it perfectly suited the Hemi ‘Cuda’s purpose as a high-performance muscle car, prioritizing function and driver engagement over luxury.
The rarity of the Hemi ‘Cuda, particularly the few that came with a 4-speed manual transmission, has made it a highly sought-after collector’s item, for its performance and the sheer audacity of its existence during a time of increasing emissions regulations.
The 1971 model, with its unique fender gills and storied performance, remains one of the most desirable muscle cars ever produced.
Credit: Hemmings
