Few American muscle cars have the presence of a 1971 Plymouth Cuda, especially when equipped with one of Chrysler’s legendary big-block V8 engines. This particular example takes things a step further with an intimidating triple-black appearance and a desirable four-speed manual transmission.
Scheduled to cross the block at Mecum’s Dallas/Fort Worth auction on October 24, 2026, the Cuda is part of the Waters Mopar Collection. Its combination of rare factory equipment and understated styling should make it particularly interesting to collectors.
Under the shaker hood sits a 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) six-barrel V8, one of the most sought-after engines available in the 1971 Cuda. Paired with a four-speed manual and a heavy-duty rear axle, it represents the kind of specification that helped establish Mopar’s muscle car reputation.
The car also comes with its original-style billboard graphics, a distinctive feature of the 1971 model year. Finished in black against Formal Black paintwork, the graphics give this Cuda a surprisingly subtle appearance despite its aggressive styling.
A Rare 440 Six-Barrel And Four-Speed Combination
Plymouth produced just 254 Cudas equipped with the 440 Six-Barrel engine for 1971, making them far rarer than many other muscle cars of the period. Of those, 237 were hardtops, and only 108 hardtops received the four-speed manual transmission.
The engine was factory-rated at 390 horsepower, delivered through three two-barrel carburetors. This example features an A833 four-speed manual gearbox operated by Mopar’s iconic Pistol Grip shifter.
Power reaches the rear wheels through a Dana 60 axle equipped with 4.10 gears as part of the Super Track Pack. That combination was designed with hard acceleration in mind, making this Cuda particularly well suited to straight-line performance.
Black Paint, Black Interior, And Plenty Of Attitude
The Formal Black exterior is complemented by black interior upholstery and a black roof, creating the triple-black appearance. Matte-black 440 billboard graphics run along the rear quarters, while the Shaker hood, fender gills, and distinctive shark-fin grille complete the muscular look.
Other exterior features include hood tie-down pins, fog lights, and a rear spoiler. Inside, the car retains front bucket seats, a center console, simulated woodgrain trim, a Rallye instrument cluster, and an AM pushbutton radio.
Heading To Auction With Its Broadcast Sheet
Mecum lists an odometer reading of 34,349 miles, although that figure has not been verified as the car’s actual lifetime mileage. The listing also does not state whether the engine is numbers-matching or whether the vehicle has been restored.
A broadcast sheet accompanies the car, providing valuable documentation of its factory configuration. The sale also includes a space-saver spare tire, its inflator canister, and a car cover.
With its scarce drivetrain combination and dramatic black-on-black presentation, this Cuda is sure to attract attention when bidding begins on October 24.