It isn’t unusual to find a classic that has undergone a color change, but it is less common to find one that has been through that process twice. That is the story behind this 1973 Plymouth ‘Cuda. Its presentation is acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle, but I suspect the next owner will probably reinstate the original shade when they discover its desirable paint and trim combination. The process should be relatively straightforward, so why not take a look to determine whether you are up for that challenge? The seller listed the ‘Cuda here on eBay in Summerfield, North Carolina. They set their BIN at $42,000, with no evidence that they might consider offers.

Chrysler’s E-Body range was heading toward the end of its production run by 1973, with the final car rolling off the line on April 1st, 1974. The range had endured many quite subtle changes since appearing in 1970, and it is fair to say that styling upgrades made to the 1973 ‘Cuda were largely evolutionary. The Fender Tag confirms that this Plymouth has undergone at least one color change, although the seller states that it has happened twice. The current shade of Blue doesn’t appear on that year’s color chart, but it covers an unspecified shade of Orange. However, if we dig deeper, we learn that the first owner ordered this ‘Cuda in Formal Black with a matching vinyl top and interior trim. That makes this a genuine Triple-Black classic, which would appeal to many potential buyers. The good news for those wishing to recapture the car’s former glory is that the engine bay and trunk are untouched, meaning that returning this Plymouth to its original form should be straightforward. There is no evidence of significant rust, the panels are straight, and the trim and glass are in good order.

This Plymouth’s interior also requires attention, because the driver’s seatcover has several flaws, and the pad is cracked. However, the back seat and remaining upholstered surfaces are free from significant issues. With the carpet also looking respectable, a refresh would involve spending money on a few isolated items, rather than a complete retrim. A pair of front seatcovers retail for approximately $570, while a pad would add $670 to the tally. With those items fitted, this interior should present well. There are no visible aftermarket additions, but factory features include Rally gauges with a tachometer, an AM radio, and a console.

Potential buyers can consider this ‘Cuda as a turnkey proposition that provided respectable performance in an era when engine power was declining rapidly. The first owner teamed a 340ci V8 with a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power-assisted steering and brakes. The 1973 model year would mark the last where ‘Cuda buyers could select the 340, with this engine making way for the marginally more powerful 360 in 1974. With 240hp and 295 ft/lbs of torque under the driver’s right foot, the ¼-mile journey in this car should take 15.5 seconds. It is unclear whether this classic is numbers-matching, but flying in and driving home is an option the buyer could consider.

This 1973 Plymouth ‘Cuda initially shows promise as a project candidate, and returning it to its factory form should be relatively straightforward. Its Triple-Black paint and trim combination guarantees that it will turn heads and draw crowds, and as the most desirable available in 1973, it would maximize the investment potential if faithfully restored. However, the seller’s price looks optimistic compared to recent successful sales. Values have also been stagnant, which doesn’t help its cause. Purchasing a car hoping for a respectable future return is always risky, but would you throw caution to the wind in this case?