While many enthusiasts focus on an original survivor to park in their garage, some can’t resist the appeal of an older classic that presents well and has been treated respectfully. This 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda 340 falls into the second category, appearing to need nothing but a new home. From its desirable paint shade to its drivetrain combination, this Plymouth deserves more than a passing glance. The seller has listed it here on eBay in Johns Island, South Carolina. Intense bidding has pushed the price beyond the reserve to $60,100 as the auction heads into the home stretch.

The 1971 model year was the second for production of Plymouth’s Third Generation Barracuda range. It underwent minor cosmetic changes, but the distinctive and muscular body remained essentially unchanged. The seller indicates that this ‘Cuda 340’s combination of Lemon Twist paint and contrasting Black Billboard stripes makes it relatively rare. That is a subject that we will return to shortly. What can be confirmed is that it is an older restoration that has always been garage-kept since work ended twenty-two years ago. That helps explain why it still presents impressively, with no major paint or panel imperfections. The best news hides below the surface, with the seller confirming that this classic is rust-free. The trim and glass are in good order, as are the Rallye wheels. I believe the wheels are a crucial component that contributes significantly to the car’s muscular appearance. Lesser versions feature narrower steelies that don’t fill the bulging fenders as well as those on this car. The Rallye wheels are undoubtedly a better option.

Okay, let’s get what some might consider the negative news out of the way, with the seller confirming that this ‘Cuda is not numbers-matching. That will impact its potential value among purists but will make little difference to those who view this purely as a high-end driver. The engine is a date-correct 340 as per the Build Sheet, with the remaining drivetrain components comprised of a four-speed manual transmission, a 3.55 Sure Grip 8¾” rear end, and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The 275hp and 340 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal doesn’t make this the most potent ‘Cuda produced in 1971. However, its ability to cover the ¼-mile in 15.2 seconds is undeniably respectable. Potential buyers can consider this a turnkey classic that runs and drives well. If you’re seeking instant classic motoring gratification, this Plymouth will deliver.

The first owner didn’t tick many interior options on their Order Form, focusing on function to maximize performance. The driver monitors proceedings via a Rally gauge cluster featuring a tachometer and shifts ratios utilizing the awesome Pistol Grip shifter. The Black vinyl trim is in good order, and the only item that might justify criticism is the carpet. It isn’t badly worn, but some areas appear to be faded. However, I won’t make a definitive call on that, because Black carpet sometimes changes shade, depending on the prevailing light. The only aftermarket addition appears to be a modern stereo which could be swapped out if the winning bidder strives for authenticity.

This 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda undoubtedly possesses the “wow” factor, and if the seller’s rarity claims are verifiable, it is little wonder that it has attracted fifty-seven bids. Various sources confirm that only 1,141 examples of the ‘Cuda 340 Hardtop rolled off the line equipped with a four-speed. The seller states that of those, only around seventeen combined those mechanical components with Lemon Twist paint and Billboard stripes. I have not found anything that proves that figure beyond question, but it does sound plausible. I am hopeful that our Barn Finds readers may be able to clarify that total. So, it’s over to you.