Welcome to the world of classic American muscle cars, where power, style, and performance converge. In this article, we delve into the captivating realm of the 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda AAR Sassy Grass Green. This iconic muscle car represents the epitome of automotive excellence, boasting a distinctive design, exhilarating performance, and a rich racing heritage. Join us as we explore the unique features, rare color options, and the enduring appeal of this legendary vehicle. Whether you’re a passionate enthusiast or simply curious about the golden era of muscle cars, prepare to be captivated by the allure of the 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda AAR Sassy Grass Green.
The 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda AAR occupies a unique position among muscle cars. Unlike its drag race-oriented counterparts, the AAR ‘Cuda was designed with road racing in mind. Its sleek and aerodynamic body, combined with performance enhancements, set it apart from the crowd. Let’s uncover the story behind this extraordinary vehicle.
The Origin of the AAR ‘Cuda
To understand the genesis of the AAR ‘Cuda, we must delve into the world of Trans Am racing. In order to compete in this prestigious racing series, manufacturers were required to produce a minimum of 2,500 street-legal vehicles with the same body style and options as the race cars. The AAR ‘Cuda was born out of this homologation requirement and the collaboration between Plymouth and Dan Gurney’s All American Racers.
Trans Am Racing and Homologation
Trans Am racing was a highly competitive and thrilling motorsport series in the early 1970s. The rules stipulated that cars in the VA class must have engines with a displacement of five liters or less. This led to fierce competition between Ford, Chevy, and Chrysler, with each manufacturer developing their own high-performance powerplants. While Ford and Chevy opted for 302 cubic inch engines, Chrysler utilized its renowned 340 cubic inch V8 engine for the AAR ‘Cuda.
The heart of any muscle car is its engine, and the AAR ‘Cuda certainly doesn’t disappoint. Powered by the 340 cubic inch V8 engine, equipped with a six-barrel carburetor setup, the AAR ‘Cuda delivered an impressive factory-rated 290 horsepower. However, it’s widely acknowledged that the actual power output exceeded the official figures. The engine’s design and specifications were optimized for high RPMs and road racing, making the AAR ‘Cuda a formidable competitor on the track.
Design and Styling Features
The AAR ‘Cuda was a feast for the eyes, boasting a range of design and styling features that set it apart from its peers. From the distinctive front spats and rear wing to the fiberglass hood sprayed with Organa-Sol, every element of this muscle car exuded a sense of aggression and purpose. The front spats, acting as chin spoiler extensions, added an extra touch of aerodynamic flair, while the rear wing enhanced the car’s visual appeal and improved its downforce. These bold and functional design elements gave the AAR ‘Cuda an unmistakable presence on the road, making it an instant head-turner.
One of the standout features of the AAR ‘Cuda was its fiberglass hood, which was sprayed with Organa-Sol, a satin-textured coating. This unique finish not only added a touch of sophistication but also served a practical purpose by reducing glare. The AAR ‘Cuda’s hood was not just for show; it housed a potent engine that demanded attention. When combined with the iconic strobe stripe, available in various colors, the AAR ‘Cuda gave the illusion of incredible speed, even when parked. The strobe stripe’s bold and dynamic appearance created a visual sense of motion, reflecting the car’s high-performance capabilities.
The AAR ‘Cuda’s design extended beyond its exterior aesthetics. Step inside, and you would find a driver-focused cockpit designed with both comfort and performance in mind. The interior boasted supportive bucket seats, a driver-oriented instrument cluster, and a range of options to enhance the driving experience. From the moment you sat behind the wheel, it was clear that the AAR ‘Cuda was built to be more than just a stylish showpiece—it was a true driver’s car. The combination of its eye-catching design, attention to detail, and performance-focused interior made the AAR ‘Cuda an unforgettable muscle car that continues to captivate enthusiasts to this day.
Unique Features of the AAR ‘Cuda
In addition to its striking appearance, the AAR ‘Cuda boasted a range of unique features that contributed to its performance and desirability. Enhanced suspension components, improved brakes, and a rear sway bar ensured the car’s handling capabilities matched its impressive power. Notably, the AAR ‘Cuda featured a special intake manifold that was painted orange to mimic the appearance of the stock manifold, demonstrating the attention to detail in its design.
During its production run from March to April 1970, Plymouth manufactured a total of 2,724 AAR ‘Cudas. Of these, approximately 110 were produced in the coveted Sassy Grass Green color. The rarity of these vehicles adds to their allure and makes them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Suspension
The suspension system of the AAR ‘Cuda was finely tuned to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Combining performance-oriented components with careful calibration, it offered precise handling, excellent road holding, and confident stability. The high-performance springs, heavy-duty sway bars, and upgraded shocks ensured the car remained composed during aggressive cornering, while the rear sway bar minimized body roll and improved balance.
Despite its sporty nature, the suspension system also provided a relatively smooth and comfortable ride, striking a perfect balance between performance and everyday drivability. The AAR ‘Cuda’s suspension system truly elevated the driving dynamics of this iconic muscle car, making it a thrilling and enjoyable choice for enthusiasts.
The interior
The interior of the AAR ‘Cuda was designed to provide a driver-focused cockpit that exuded both comfort and performance. Stepping inside, you were greeted by supportive bucket seats that hugged you during spirited driving. The driver-oriented instrument cluster featured clear and concise gauges, allowing for quick and easy monitoring of vital information. The center console housed controls that were within easy reach, ensuring convenient access to various functions. From the moment you settled into the driver’s seat, it was evident that the interior of the AAR ‘Cuda was purposefully crafted to enhance the driving experience.
Attention to detail was evident throughout the interior of the AAR ‘Cuda. Premium materials were utilized, creating a sense of luxury and refinement. From the soft-touch surfaces to the high-quality upholstery, every touchpoint exuded a sense of craftsmanship. The interior color options were carefully selected to complement the exterior, allowing for a truly personalized and visually striking cabin. Whether you preferred a bold and vibrant color scheme or a more subtle and understated palette, the AAR ‘Cuda offered a range of choices to suit individual tastes.
Beyond its stylish design and premium materials, the interior of the AAR ‘Cuda also incorporated a range of features to enhance comfort and convenience. Optional upgrades included amenities such as air conditioning, power windows, and a premium audio system, allowing for a more enjoyable driving experience. Ample storage compartments and well-placed cup holders added practicality to the interior, accommodating the needs of both driver and passengers. The overall interior design of the AAR ‘Cuda struck a harmonious balance between form and function, creating a welcoming and driver-centric space that elevated the overall driving experience.
Conclusion
The 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda AAR Sassy Grass Green stands as a testament to the golden age of muscle cars. Its unique blend of road race performance, daring design, and limited production numbers make it an automotive icon. As enthusiasts continue to celebrate and preserve these remarkable vehicles, the legend of the AAR ‘Cuda will live on for generations to come.
