Frame Up Built AAR Cuda 440 Six Pack Keith Black 500 HP

It's been a good season for finding first rate E-bodies. You may have seen this "1970 Dodge Challenger R/T convertible": http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/sales/inventory/active#!/1970-Dodge-Challenger-R-T/133002 that we sold in exactly 22 days - Or this "1971 hardtop Challenger R/T": http://www.rkmotorscharlotte.com/sales/inventory/active#!/1971-Dodge-Challenger-R-T/133004 that literally just rolled into the showroom. If you like their lines but prefer the slightly shorter 'Cuda, we have something special for you. How about a 1974 Plymouth 'Cuda with AAR trim and a 440 Six Pack? A ton of time and money has been invested into making this one of the coolest AAR tributes on the show scene. It's already captured the lenses of both Mopar Muscle and Popular Hot Rodding but this 'Cuda is just getting starting. Sure, Chrysler never built them like this but, after driving this Sublime torque monster, we seriously doubt you'll care.

Among Chrysler's 'High Impact' colors, FJ5 Sublime green was definitely one of the most popular and this car wears it well. The recipient of an extensive rotisserie restoration, every panel is straight and fitment is far better than any factory-assembled Mopar. Bumpers and mirrors have both been color matched, giving this 'Cuda a track friendly look. The matte black panels contrast nicely against the bright green while continuing the color introduced by the AAR decals.

From a distance, it would be easy to believe this Mopar left the factory in 1970 as a proper AAR 'Cuda. With the large '74 bumpers gone, only the tail lights and square driving lights hint something different may be at play. Correct 'eyebrow' spoilers lend the front end a wider more aggressive look while the hood pins holding down the matte black hood pay respect to the AAR's track heritage. On the side of the scoop a 440+6 badge lets everyone know this is no ordinary AAR. Glass and brightwork all show well on this car, right down to the ridged rocker trim. A correct ducktail spoiler sits above the 1974 rear valence which has been given the same suede black treatment. The rear end of this car will have many folks wondering if it's a 1970 with '74 tails or vice versa.

Pull the pins on the fiberglass hood and you'll find a period correct 440 Super Commando V8. While AAR's came equipped with the high-revving 340, the 440 looks right at home. With the exception of the electronic ignition, the engine bay even looks period correct. The block has been bored .040 over and rebuilt with Keith Black pistons. Connecting rods, crank and cast iron heads are all factory pieces. Up top, three Holley two-barrel carburetors handle fuel distribution while ceramic coated Hooker headers connected to correct side-exit exhaust help the mill breathe. Altogether, the set up is good for an estimated 500-550hp – plenty of power to make a weekend cruise exciting. Power brakes and power steering keep that power manageable.

Behind the 440 is an A-727 3-speed automatic transmission with a 4000 rpm stall converter. Power is then transferred to the ground through an 8 ¾” Sure Grip rear end with 3.91 gears. The combination makes this 'Cuda a fun cruiser capable of holding its own in any stop light grand prix. AAR's did just fine around the twisties, so the suspension was built to factory specs with a level of care never offered by any Chrysler plant. If you show this car (as you should) make sure to pack a few mirrors so that everyone can admire how clean the undercarriage is. Braking is handled by a set of disc brakes up front with drums in the rear, just as an AAR would have come from the factory. At the corners, a set of Wheel Vintiques Rallye wheels wrapped in 225/60's up front and 275/60's out back complete the look.

When E-bodies debuted, the 'Cuda was marketed as the performance-focused sibling of the longer, more luxurious Dodge Challenger. That focus definitely carries through to the interior. With help from some Year One pieces, this cabin has been put back to its straightforward showroom condition. Driver and passenger are provided high back bucket seats that show virtually zero wear. In between those seats, a sculpted plastic console with wood applique houses the T-handle shifter with style. The dash is from Just Dashes and, with the exception of a Pioneer head unit, looks highly accurate with no imperfections visible. The Mopar Tuff-style steering wheel adds some period correct flair to the otherwise no-frills interior. With a new headliner and carpet, this 'Cuda's interior is fresh from the floor up.

Documentation includes a photo album with assorted build pictures. Also included is a copy of the April 2000 Mopar Muscle magazine with the car's feature story as well as an issue of Popular Hot Rodding the car's image graces.

For the asking price, a clean AAR 'Cuda is out the question. The same goes for just about anything with a factory installed 440 Six Pack. If those two items are both on your wish list, consider checking off both boxes with this 'Cuda. Call today!