A 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible will be among the Salon Collection offerings when Barrett-Jackson returns to Arizona for their 2013 Scottsdale auction, scheduled for January 13-20 under the company’s quarter-mile tent at Westworld.
The FC7-In Violet ‘Plum Crazy’ Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible, one of one in 1971, was rediscovered by long-time Hemi hunter, Harold Sullivan, after the car was stolen nearly 30 years prior. When Sullivan found the ‘Cuda shell on New Year’s Eve in 2001 it was covered in weeds and underbrush and only five days away from disappearing into a scrap-recycling yard.
After a two-year restoration preparation by Cummins Restoration in Grand Haven, Michigan, the Hemi ‘Cuda was completed by Ted Mazurek at Sullivan’s shop in Madison Heights, Michigan. The car was inspected, authenticated and appraised by Mopar guru, Galen Govier, after its restoration. The dedication Sullivan showed to this vehicle for many years ago paid off when the 1971 Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible took top honors at the 2005 Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance.
As one of only 11 ever made, this particular Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible features the last factory-assembled 426cid Hemi V8 engine, with two 4 barrel carburetors, 727 automatic transmission, Super Track Pak package with Dana 60 rear end, 4.11 ratio gears and a power convertible top. This was also the only model year the ‘Cuda sported four headlights and fender gills.
“As an owner of a 1970 HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible, I am very excited to have such a memorable vehicle crossing the block with us in January,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. ”It is a true automotive milestone and extraordinary example of ‘American Muscle’ at its finest. This year’s Salon offering is the best of the best, and is sure to attract not only Barrett-Jackson bidding veterans but also new bidders.”
Out of the 11 Hemi ‘Cuda Convertibles ever built, seven vehicles were sent to the U.S. and two of them were exported to England. As one of only two convertibles made for Canadian export, this vehicle was featured in Canadian Hot Rods and on the October 2011 cover of Mopar Action.
For more information, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
[Source: Barrett-Jackson]
