This is the very first of the five automatic 1971 Hemi Cuda convertibles produced by the Chrysler Corporation. The true pinnacle of American muscle car production, just 12 Hemi Cuda droptops of any sort came from the factory during that final year of production, each one unique in its own right. Indeed, these cars were the only factory Hemi-powered convertibles offered that year. This particular car, known as the “The White Elephant,” was constructed early in the ’71 model run, on September 9, 1970. It was likely not built with racing in mind, nor was it loaded for luxury. Of course, the 426/425 HP Hemi engine is its calling card, hosting two Carter AFB 4-barrels under the Shaker hood scoop. Behind this went the A36 Performance Axle Package, which called for the 3.55 Sure Grip 8.75-inch differential behind the A727 TorqueFlite automatic transmission. Ordering any Hemi resulted in frame and suspension upgrades on the assembly line, and this car also came with power steering and brakes. The car was sold new in the Midwest, and after being discovered, it was taken back to its as-built specifications in 2003 by Restorations by Julius in Chatsworth, California. That included the GW3 Sno White paint with painted grille, black Shaker scoop and P37 power-operated black convertible top. Inside, this car hosts the high-quality H6X9 bucket seat interior, and a further expensive option was its as-ordered R26 AM radio with microphone and cassette recorder. The owner did not opt for the console nor Rallye dash, however. Efforts underneath the car showcase excellent attention to detail, and Dave Wise’s recent reexamination of this car retained a category 1.0 evaluation. One change in the near past during a further restoration was the addition of the top-matching black Hemi billboard graphics to the sides. However, the car retains its Sno-White theme, as the trim found on it was limited to the special Cuda fare for this final year—hood pins, front fender gills, chrome rocker and tail panel moldings and chrome exhaust exits. The final accent here are the color-matched steel wheels with small-diameter corporate hubcaps, fitted with Goodyear Polyglas GT F60-15 tires. The car’s earliest ownership is still unknown, and it entered the hobby after its long-time owner (since 1977) chose to part with it in 2003. The car was verified and documented before Julius Steuer began his year-long restoration effort. Expert Dave Wise has examined this car in both 2017 and 2023, and his updated report with copious illustrations will accompany this sale. Also included are a copy of the car’s 1977 Kansas title, a partial broadcast sheet, the original carpet and door tags, and discovery and restoration photos.
