From the late 1960s through the very early 1970s, the massive Chrysler HEMI engine was stuffed into various vehicles, including the E-Body platform. With only 652 built, the 1970 HEMI ‘Cuda is considered to be one of the most desirable of these E-Body cars. When we ran across a 1970 HEMI Cuda R-Code on Craigslist, we knew we had to share it. Not only is it of the rare and highly sought after 1970 batch, the car itself was allegedly raced by a drag racing legend.
Backing up a bit to the abbreviated production of the 1970 HEMI ‘Cuda, there was a reason for the scarcity of the model. It took an extra $900 to build the car out with this engine, which was nearly a third of the original sticker price.
To add to the rarity of the listing of this particular car, the seller claims that it was painted in 1975 for “the legendary drag racer Earnest Montgomery,” and certainly has the look of an old school drag car. Equipped with drag tires and race decals, we can easily picture it on a drag strip.
Originally painted Plum Crazy Purple, the chassis work was performed by Alston, and the seller explains that all of the VIN stampings are correct. The engine has been freshly rebuilt with a 1970 unstamped block, dated correctly for the car.
It also has a 4-speed setup to go with it, although neither the engine or transmission are actually in the car — which may explain why the asking price is about $100k to $150k lower than what one of these cars might usually fetch.
If this car and parts included check out, it could be the deal of a lifetime. With a little elbow grease (okay, a lot of elbow grease), it might be a great car to flip and double the current asking price, or just a great addition to your collection.
Elizabeth is hardcore horsepower enthusiast with unmatched intensity for making things faster and louder. She wakes up for power and performance and only sleeps to charge up for the next project that’s heading to the track. From autocross to drag racing, Elizabeth is there with you, so stay tuned for her unique perspective on horsepower news, builds, tech info, and installs — with her, it’ll never be boring!
