Prepare to be captivated by the resurgence of a lesser-known muscle car era. While the spotlight often shone on mid-size automobiles during the 1960s, the 1970s witnessed a shift towards compact powerhouses like the Chevy Nova and Plymouth Duster. This genuine 1973 Duster 340, sporting an eye-catching Petty Blue exterior, showcases the essence of this thrilling transformation. With a replacement motor and fresh paint, this Mopar marvel, located in Winchester, Virginia, is now up for grabs on craigslist at an enticing price of $26,900. Thanks to Pat L., we unveil yet another remarkable find!
The Duster, born in 1970 as a fastback variant of the Plymouth Valiant, proved its mettle by giving rise to the iconic Dodge Demon in 1971. Equipped with a robust 340 cubic inch V8 engine, utilized by Chrysler between 1968 and 1973, the Duster became a force to be reckoned with. Over the span of six years, more than 217,000 of these powerhouses roared to life. Among them, the 1973 Duster 340, like the one presented here, enjoyed over 15,000 installations before gracefully retiring. Often characterized by their simplicity, many Duster 340s featured bench seats and column-shifted transmissions, reminiscent of their Road Runner counterparts.
While this stunning Duster may not qualify as a pristine survivor, its appearance certainly suggests otherwise. Although the original H-code V8 has been replaced, a period-correct engine now resides within its impeccably maintained frame. With a mere 51,000 miles on the odometer, the exact mileage of the new motor remains undisclosed, hinting at a possible rebuild. Noteworthy features of this gem include a TorqueFlite automatic transmission, power steering, power front disc brakes, and a potential aftermarket radio, further enhancing the driving experience.
The resplendent Petty Blue paint, reminiscent of the legendary King Richard himself, might or might not be the car’s original color. However, when the current seller acquired this beauty, it still retained its original finish before undergoing an extensive restoration. Minor rust issues have been expertly addressed, showcasing the commitment to preserving its integrity. While the interior appears in excellent condition, the driver’s door panel may require attention or potentially be missing, among other minor odds and ends requiring final touches. Nevertheless, the allure of this Duster remains undeniable, solidifying its position as a head-turning masterpiece.
