Ground Up Restored 'Cuda Hardtop 415ci Stroker V8 4-Speed Manual

This 1970 Plymouth 'Cuda is a great example of traditional Mopar muscle we've all grown to love, that's been updated with beefier performance. Originally ordered as a well-equipped 340/4-speed car, it underwent a past comprehensive refurbishment, transforming it into a high-performance street machine while preserving its unmistakable muscle car presence.

Originally sprayed in FF4 Lime Green Metallic, this 'Cuda was placed on a rotisserie during its restoration, where the quarter panels, trunk floor, and driver-side floor were replaced before receiving a fresh coat of its original green hue. Black “hockey-stick” graphics were added along the sides, now sporting “415” callouts that hint at the beast under the hood. Additional exterior upgrades include a black rear wing, a black tail panel, a sport hood with securing pins, fog lights, and chrome exhaust tips exiting through the rear valance. Stainless trim and bright moldings were refreshed, adding a touch of refinement to the aggressive stance.

Under the hood is a fire-breathing 415 cubic-inch stroker V8, built by Oddy's Automotive of Elma, New York. It was then dyno-tested at 485 horsepower and 504 lb-ft of torque. Fuel is fed by a Holley 4-barrel carburetor, and cooling is handled by a Wizard Cooling aluminum radiator with a custom-fabricated fan shroud. During a recent oil pan reseal here at RK Motors, our technicians discovered it's built with a forged Callies stroker crankshaft, H-beam Eagle rods, and JE SRP pistons. It is dressed with Mopar Performance finned valve covers, a chrome air-cleaner cover, and performance exhaust headers. The A833 four-speed manual transmission was rebuilt during the refurbishment, sending power to an A31 high performance 8 3/4 rear end with a Sure-Grip limited-slip differential and 3.91 gears. Reinforced frame-rail sections add extra rigidity to handle the increased output.

Aesthetics meet performance with a lowered suspension, achieved via torsion-bar adjustments and leaf-spring spacers, increasing handling capability without sacrificing ride quality. Chrome-finished, 17-inch front and 18-inch rear, Foose wheels enhance the muscle car look; while four-wheel disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors provide modern stopping power. And power steering provides confident maneuverability.

Inside, the cabin was retrimmed in black vinyl, replacing the original green interior. The front bucket seats and rear bench offer a classic muscle car feel, complemented by a Hurst pistol-grip shifter. Other upgrades include a Sony CD head unit (AM/FM/CD/SiriusXM/Aux), modern speakers, Alpine amplifier, 'Cuda-logo carpeted floor mats, and a Tuff-style steering wheel. The instrument cluster retains its factory look, featuring a 120-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and auxiliary gauges.

Despite its modifications, this 'Cuda retains its factory identity. Originally built in Hamtramck, Michigan, it left the factory with a 340ci V8 and a four-speed manual transmission. A high-performance axle package with 3.91 gears, dual racing mirrors, road lamps, and an AM radio were among its original options. Today, it stands as a fusion of period-correct design and modern performance, making it a true standout in the Mopar world.

This 'Cuda strikes a great balance between factory-correct heritage and modern performance upgrades. With its aggressive stance, rowdy 415ci stroker V8, and driver-focused enhancements, it delivers the raw muscle car experience with improved handling and stopping power. A true Mopar icon, built to turn heads and dominate the streets.

Key Highlights

* Ground Up Restored Cuda hardtop
* 415ci stroker V8 (360 based)
* A833 4-speed manual transmission
* Forged Callies crankshaft
* Forged Eagle piston rods
* Forged JE pistons
* Drilled and slotted disc brakes
* Holley 4-barrel carburetor
* Aluminum radiator
* Sure-Grip limited slip differential
* High performance rear axle with 3.91 gears
* Chrome Foose wheels (17" front, 18" rear) with radial tires
* Sony head unit (AM/FM/CD/SiriusXM/Aux)
* Alpine amplifier with modern speakers
* Power steering
* Dual Dynomax exhaust