It’s not every day a muscle car crosses the auction block and commands over two million dollars—but this wasn’t just any muscle car. The 1970 Plymouth ’Cuda 440 Rapid Transit Show Car is a one-of-a-kind creation from a time when Detroit didn’t just build cars—it built legends. Born out of Plymouth’s “Rapid Transit System” campaign, this wild custom coupe was part rolling billboard, part performance monster, and part pop art on wheels.

Unrestored, untouched, and hiding away for decades, it emerged at Mecum’s 2023 Indy auction like a time capsule—and sold for a staggering $2.2 million. Here’s what makes this ’Cuda so unforgettable.

A Unique Piece of Mopar History

This ‘Cuda is one of only four custom vehicles created for Plymouth’s Rapid Transit System Caravan, a promotional tour in the early 1970s showcasing the brand’s performance prowess. Its exclusivity and role in this unique marketing campaign make it a standout piece in automotive history.​

Designed to captivate audiences at car shows and dealerships, the Rapid Transit System cars were more than just eye candy—they were rolling representations of Plymouth’s commitment to performance and style. This particular ‘Cuda’s participation in the tour adds a layer of historical significance that collectors highly value.​

Designed by a Hot Wheels Visionary

The car’s striking design is the work of Harry Bentley Bradley, renowned for his contributions to the original Hot Wheels lineup. His influence is evident in the ‘Cuda’s bold lines and imaginative styling, bridging the gap between toy car fantasies and real-world muscle.​

Bradley’s expertise in creating visually arresting designs played a crucial role in making the Rapid Transit System cars memorable. His work on this ‘Cuda exemplifies the creativity and flair that defined the era’s custom car scene.​

Custom Build by Chuck Miller

Chuck Miller, a celebrated custom car builder and 1968 Ridler Award winner, brought Bradley’s design to life. His craftsmanship ensured that the ‘Cuda wasn’t just a showpiece but a fully functional vehicle with meticulous attention to detail.​

Miller’s reputation for quality and innovation made him a natural choice for this project. His ability to execute complex designs with precision contributed significantly to the car’s enduring appeal.​

Unrestored with Ultra-Low Mileage

Remarkably, this ‘Cuda remains unrestored and has just 967 miles on the odometer. Its preservation in near-original condition provides a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship and design aesthetics of the early 1970s.​

The car’s minimal mileage and untouched state make it a time capsule, offering enthusiasts and historians an authentic experience of the era’s automotive culture.​

Powerful 440 Six-Barrel Engine

Under the hood lies a formidable 440 cubic inch V8 engine with a six-barrel carburetor setup, delivering impressive power and performance. This engine configuration was a hallmark of Plymouth’s commitment to muscle car excellence.​

The 440 Six-Barrel engine not only provided exceptional acceleration but also cemented the ‘Cuda’s status as a serious contender on the street and strip. Its presence in this show car underscores the blend of form and function that defined the Rapid Transit System vehicles.​

Distinctive Custom Paintwork

The ‘Cuda features a unique custom paint job with vibrant hues and intricate designs that set it apart from standard models. This eye-catching exterior was integral to its role in attracting attention during the promotional tour.​

The elaborate paint scheme not only showcased the creativity of the designers but also served as a visual representation of Plymouth’s bold approach to marketing its performance lineup.​

Original Show Sign Included

Adding to its authenticity, the car comes with its original Rapid Transit System Caravan show sign. This piece of memorabilia connects the vehicle directly to its promotional roots and enhances its historical value.​

The inclusion of the show sign provides context and provenance, offering a tangible link to the car’s past appearances and its role in Plymouth’s marketing efforts.​

VIN and Fender Tag Verification

The ‘Cuda retains its original dash VIN and fender tag, confirming its identity and factory specifications. These elements are crucial for collectors seeking authenticity and traceability in classic vehicles.​

The presence of these identifiers ensures that the car’s history is well-documented, adding to its credibility and appeal among enthusiasts and historians alike.​

Rediscovered After Decades in Storage

After being hidden away for over 50 years, the ‘Cuda resurfaced in remarkably preserved condition. Its long-term storage contributed to its low mileage and well-maintained appearance, making its discovery a significant event in the collector car community.​

The car’s reemergence offers a rare opportunity to experience a piece of automotive history that remained untouched for decades, sparking excitement among collectors and enthusiasts.​

Record-Breaking Auction Sale

At the 2023 Mecum Auctions in Indianapolis, this exceptional ‘Cuda sold for an astounding $2.2 million. This sale price reflects not only the car’s rarity and condition but also the enduring fascination with muscle cars from this golden era.

The auction result underscores the significant value placed on vehicles with unique histories and original features, highlighting the ‘Cuda’s status as a coveted collector’s item.

*This article was hand crafted with AI-powered tools and has been car-fully, I mean carefully, reviewed by our editors.