Just say those words out loud – 1971 Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible. Sends chills down your spine, doesn’t it? I’m not a Chrysler / Plymouth / Dodge / Mopar whatever fan at all. I hate the company, I hate the cars. But even I have a huge soft spot for a car like this. See, back in 1971, only 11 people were brave enough to pony up the extra cash for a Hemi powered Cuda Convertible. 11. Eleven. Not 111, not 11 hundred. just 11.
So when this pristine example of a 1971 Hemi Cuda Convertible sold for 2.2 million American dollars at RM Auctions, no one blinked an eye. There really aren’t many vehicles that are this exceedingly rare – it’s really quite amazing if you think about it. But back in 1971, the Hemi had a few things going against it. For one, the price was absurd for the times – as much as 70% more than the 396 powered Cuda. Then there was the fact that the engine had a very ‘lumpy’ idle, which turned off many would-be buyers. And of course the whole lack of low-end torque was an issue. See, the Hemi of that era was built for racing, which means it was built very much-so for high-end performance.
So would I spend 2 million dollars on a 1971 Hemi Cuda Convertible? Well, no. But mostly because I don’t have 2.2 million dollars. But if I was fortunate enough to be so wealthy, you can be damned sure I’d do everything I could to add one of these fantastic cars to my collection. I’d put money on these puppies appreciating in value quite a bit in the coming years. See, they’re not making any more, and they’re only going to become more in demand. Via Autoblog.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
that car was a great find and all who hate dode are wrong mopar is the best car manfactuear in the u.s.
You’re right – that car is an amazing find, and it’s an amazing car.
But the Dodge of today is barely even a shadow of the old Dodge….. they only produce one vehicle that is desireable to me in any way – and it’s priced out at over $80k, so it’s out of my price range.
What a tool. No Chrysler prduct ever came with a 396 engine. That’s a GM engine. DUH? I just love those that critique cars they have never owned or driven, which is obviously the case with this clown.
Nice car,How much was the car when you got it.