Plymouth Duster 340
The giant-killing compact that offered big-block pace for a budget price.
- Power
- 275 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.2 s
- Top speed
- 130 mph
- Est. value
- $28k–$65k
About the Plymouth Duster 340
Launched for the 1970 model year, the Plymouth Duster 340 was a performance-oriented fastback based on the humble Valiant chassis. It was designed to offer maximum performance for minimum cost, featuring the high-revving 340 cubic-inch 'LA' small-block V8. Despite its budget positioning, the Duster 340 was a legitimate giant-killer, often out-accelerating heavier big-block muscle cars thanks to its superior power-to-weight ratio. Collectors prize the 1970 model for its unique 'shark tooth' grille and high-compression engine before emissions regulations began to sap power in subsequent years.
Plymouth Duster 340 specs
The Plymouth Duster 340 produces 275 bhp (205 kW) and 461 Nm (340 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h).
| Make | Plymouth |
|---|---|
| Model | Duster 340 |
| Trim | 340 |
| Years | 1970–1973 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,500 when new |
| Engine | 5.6-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,572 cc (5.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 275 bhp (205 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 461 Nm (340 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.2 s |
| Top speed | 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,411 kg (3,111 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 195 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Plymouth Duster 340 worth?
A typical Plymouth Duster 340 is estimated to be worth $28,000 – $65,000 (about £21,000 – £48,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Plymouth Duster 340 rarity in CarSpot
The Plymouth Duster 340 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 38 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Plymouth Duster 340 fun facts
- The Duster was so successful that it single-handedly moved Plymouth from fourth to third place in the US sales charts for 1970.
- The 340 V8 was famously underrated at 275 hp for insurance reasons; period testers estimated the actual output was closer to 325 hp.
- Plymouth originally wanted to use the Warner Bros. Tasmanian Devil as the mascot, but the licensing fees were deemed too expensive.
