Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda (3rd generation)
The ultimate expression of the American muscle car era.
- Power
- 425 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.8 s
- Top speed
- 140 mph
- Est. value
- $380k–$850k
About the Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda
The 1971 Hemi 'Cuda represents the pinnacle of the E-body platform and the final year for the legendary 426 Hemi engine. Distinguished by its quad headlights and fender 'gills' exclusive to the 1971 model year, it is one of the most sought-after muscle cars in existence. The 'Elephant' engine under the Shaker hood provides brutal acceleration, though the car's heavy front end and period suspension require respect through corners. With production numbers plummeting due to rising insurance costs and emissions regulations, it has become a blue-chip collector staple.
Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda specs
The Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda produces 425 bhp (317 kW) and 664 Nm (490 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).
| Make | Plymouth |
|---|---|
| Model | Hemi 'Cuda |
| Generation | Third generation (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 7.0 V8 |
| Years | 1970–1971 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 114 built |
| Original price | About $4,600 when new |
| Engine | 7.0-litre Hemi V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,981 cc (7.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 425 bhp (317 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 664 Nm (490 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.8 s |
| Top speed | 140 mph (225 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,704 kg (3,757 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 249 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 Hemi 'Cuda worth?
A typical Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda is estimated to be worth $380,000 – $850,000 (about £283,000 – £634,000).
Its original price when new was about $4,600.
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 Hemi 'Cuda rarity in CarSpot
The Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 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 Hemi 'Cuda fun facts
- The 1971 model is the only year the Barracuda featured quad headlights and the distinctive four-gill fender louvers.
- Only 114 Hemi 'Cudas were produced for the 1971 model year, including just 7 convertibles for the US market.
- The 'Shaker' hood scoop is so named because it is mounted directly to the engine and vibrates visibly through a hole in the bonnet.
