Set to be auctioned by Mecum this May, this one-of-a-kind build from 1970 boasts its original paint and a mere 967 miles on the odometer.
Few things are as cool as a classic muscle car, especially one that has remained untouched and in its original condition. The 1970 Cuda pictured here is a rare gem that fits the bill: it was a one-off creation that was part of Plymouth’s Rapid Transit System Caravan show in 1970, and has remained largely unseen for over 50 years.
The one-of-a-kind Cuda 440 Rapid Transit is based on an early production car, as evidenced by its serial number of No. 100005. Engineer Chuck Miller was responsible for building it, while the design was done by Harry Bradley, the creator of the original Hot Wheels toy car line in 1967.
The muscle car boasts several standout exterior features, including a steel nose cone, custom grille hiding Cibie headlights, side-mounted exhaust, Shaker hood, and custom taillights. The car’s wider rear tires, chrome wheelie bars, and faux parachute all suggest a focus on drag racing.
The Plymouth Cuda 440 Rapid Transit was a popular attraction at many dealerships and car shows throughout the US during the 1970 and 1971 tours, appearing alongside other iconic models like the Road Runner, Duster 340, and Hemi Cuda show cars.
The special Cuda 440 Rapid Transit is just one of the 3,000 vehicles that will be offered at the upcoming Dana Mecum’s 36th Original Spring Classic auction, taking place from May 12-20 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis, US.
Few things are as cool as a classic muscle car, especially one that has remained untouched and in its original condition. The 1970 Cuda pictured here is a rare gem that fits the bill: it was a one-off creation that was part of Plymouth’s Rapid Transit System Caravan show in 1970, and has remained largely unseen for over 50 years.
Now, this unique car is up for sale, offering a lucky new owner the chance to own a piece of muscle car history and appreciate its originality and unique design.
The one-of-a-kind Cuda 440 Rapid Transit is based on an early production car, as evidenced by its serial number of No. 100005. Engineer Chuck Miller was responsible for building it, while the design was done by Harry Bradley, the creator of the original Hot Wheels toy car line in 1967.
Despite its age, the car retains its original lacquer paint and all of the extensive visual modifications that made it unique. The interior is in impeccable condition, featuring leather seats and wood panels that have been beautifully preserved over the years.
The muscle car boasts several standout exterior features, including a steel nose cone, custom grille hiding Cibie headlights, side-mounted exhaust, Shaker hood, and custom taillights. The car’s wider rear tires, chrome wheelie bars, and faux parachute all suggest a focus on drag racing.
Under the hood, the car packs a 440 Cl 6-barrel V8 engine paired with a TorqueFlite automatic transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels. In the 1970s, the engine was rated at 385 horsepower (287 kW / 390 PS). Notably, the odometer reading for this one-of-a-kind car is just 967 miles (1,556 km), further adding to its exceptional condition and rarity.
The Plymouth Cuda 440 Rapid Transit was a popular attraction at many dealerships and car shows throughout the US during the 1970 and 1971 tours, appearing alongside other iconic models like the Road Runner, Duster 340, and Hemi Cuda show cars.
While the latter three vehicles were part of the late Steven Juliano’s renowned car collection that was auctioned in 2019, this is the first time the Cuda 440 has been publicly showcased since the ’70s, making it even more special and desirable for classic car collectors.
The special Cuda 440 Rapid Transit is just one of the 3,000 vehicles that will be offered at the upcoming Dana Mecum’s 36th Original Spring Classic auction, taking place from May 12-20 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis, US.
The car is being sold with no reserve, and given its exceptional condition, unique history, and one-of-a-kind status, it is sure to attract serious attention from collectors and muscle car enthusiasts alike. We anticipate that it will command a significant price at auction.
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