Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale’s 2013 Salon Collection To Include Rare 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible

1971 PLYMOUTH HEMI ‘CUDA CONVERTIBLE

The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctionsto Feature One of Only 11 HEMI ‘Cuda Convertibles Ever Built

Scottsdale, Ariz. – (October 8, 2012) – Barrett-Jackson, the World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™, announced today that it will offer one of the most desirable Mopar muscle cars ever built – the FC7-In Violet Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible, one of one in 1971 – as part of its exclusive Salon Collection at its famed Scottsdale auction, January 19, 2013. The vehicle best-known for its “Plum Crazy” color will be alongside other incredible vehicles up for sale at the 42nd annual auction January 13-20, 2013, under the company’s iconic quarter-mile tent.

Through a miraculous turn of events, it was rediscovered by long-time HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible hunter, Harold Sullivan, after the car was stolen nearly 30 years prior.  When Sullivan found the ‘Cuda shell on New Year’s Eve in 2001 it was covered in weeds and underbrush and only five days away from disappearing into a scrap-recycling yard.

After an extensive two-year restoration preparation by Cummins Restoration in Grand Haven, Mich., the HEMI ‘Cuda was completed by Ted Mazurek at Sullivan’s shop in Madison Heights, Mich. This uniquely-painted HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible was inspected, authenticated and appraised to the highest museum standards by Mopar guru, Galen Govier, after its restoration. The dedication Sullivan showed to this vehicle for many years ago paid off when the 1971 HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible took top honors at the 2005 Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance.

As one of only 11 ever made, this particular HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible features the last factory-assembled 426cid HEMI V8 engine, with two 4 barrel carburetors, 727 automatic transmission, Super Track Pak package with Dana 60 rear end, 4.11 ratio gears and a power convertible top. This was also the only model year the ‘Cuda sported four headlights and fender “gills.”

“As an owner of a 1970 HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible, I am very excited to have such a memorable vehicle crossing the block with us in January,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. ”It is a true automotive milestone and extraordinary example of ‘American Muscle’ at its finest. This year’s Salon offering is the best of the best, and is sure to attract not only Barrett-Jackson bidding veterans but also new bidders.”

Out of the 11 HEMI ‘Cuda Convertibles ever built, seven vehicles were sent to the U.S. and two of them were exported to England. As one of only two convertibles made for Canadian export, this vehicle was featured in Canadian Hot Rods and on the October 2011 cover of Mopar Action.

“After seeing the enthusiastic reaction of automotive fans and event attendees at our Las Vegas auction, we can feel the excitement and growing buzz around Scottsdale,” said Steve Davis, president, Barrett-Jackson. “We are confident that this rare HEMI ‘Cuda and its fascinating history will draw a large crowd at January’s auction.”

For more information about Barrett-Jackson and to purchase tickets to the event, visit or call (480) 421-6694.

About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces “The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™” in Scottsdale, Ariz., Palm Beach, Fla., Las Vegas, Nev. and Orange County, Calif. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit m or call (480) 421-6694.

 

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