Despite being ahead of its time only a handful of these rare American muscle cars exist

American muscle cars are some of the coolest automobiles ever made, and there have been some real classics over the years from the likes of Plymouth, Ford and Chevrolet.

Alongside the basic Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, there have also been some super rare muscle cars produced.

Rare convertibles, Shelby Super Snakes, and scarce four-doors are all included in that, with some never breaking more than 10 units.

One of the rarest of the lot is the 1971 Plymouth Hemi Barracuda Convertible, which is without a doubt a true legend of the muscle car world.

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Fewer than 15 1971 ‘Cude Convertibles muscle cars were built

The use of ‘Hemi’ itself is one way to tell just how desirable the 1971 Plymouth convertible muscle car is.

In total, the American company made just 12 of these, which were part of the third generation of the Plymouth Barracuda.

Of those 12, only seven had the four-speed manual transmission, which further increases its exclusivity.

In fact, of those seven, just three of the manual Hemis came with the Hurst Pistol Grip shifter.

The cost of the options was so much that the average buyer simply couldn’t afford to have the whole package.

Those with the Hemi engines were included in those called ‘Cudas’.

It will come as no surprise to learn that these particular Barracudas are incredibly valuable.

1971 ‘Hemi Plymouth Cudas are now highly sought after

Auctions reveal just how sought-after these particular American muscle cars have become.

For example, one that was listed for sale at Mecum Auctions in 2021 was projected to fetch up to $6.5 million.

One did sell at Mecum in 2014 for $3.5 million, again highlighting the value of the Hemis.

At the time, that was a sales record for an American muscle car.

The performance of the 426ci Hemi V8 made the ‘Cuda a popular drag racer.

It remains one of the most powerful muscle cars of its era.

Being able to find any up for auction is a rare occasion.

When they do they go for crazy big bucks.

Should you ever be lucky enough to own one, keep hold of it, as its desirability will only rise as time goes on.The post Despite being ahead of its time only a handful of these rare American muscle cars exist appeared first on Supercar Blondie.