When delving into the golden era of Plymouth muscle cars, names like Road Runner, GTX, and Barracuda often dominate discussions. These iconic Mopars rightfully claim the spotlight, but there’s a world of other Plymouths waiting to be explored by enthusiasts of late 1960s and early 1970s rigs.
Unearthing the Duster
The Belvedere and the slightly fancier Satellite may be obvious choices, but for those seeking a hidden gem, the Duster emerges as the underdog. While it may be smaller and lack Chrysler’s big-block V8 engines, these very attributes make the Duster distinctive.
Introduced in 1969 as a sportier, two-door coupe version of the Valiant, the Duster shared underpinnings with the Dodge Dart. Powered by inline-six and small-block V8 engines, it became renowned for its compact size and unique character. The introduction of the 360-cubic-inch LA engine in 1974 marked a significant chapter in the Duster’s evolution.
Though not as mighty as the iconic 440-cubic-inch RB or the 426-cubic-inch HEMI, the Duster, equipped with the 340-cubic-inch V8, proved itself a giant-slayer. With 275 horsepower to the rear wheels, it outpaced formidable muscle cars like the Ford Torino, Chevrolet Chevelle, and Pontiac GTO in quarter-mile times.
A Meticulously Restored 1970 Duster 340
At a recent auction captured by YouTube’s “Corner Classic Car Hunter,” a 1970 Duster 340 caught the eye. Meticulously restored through a nut-and-bolt process, this Duster not only stands as a flawless example but also boasts a rare and attention-grabbing color combination.
Cloaked in Moulin Rouge, a vibrant hue from Chrysler’s High-Impact color palette (known as Panther Pink on Dodge models), this Duster stands out. This color, available for only a few months in 1970, adds to the rarity of an already unique vehicle.
While official data on the Moulin Rouge Dusters is scarce, estimates suggest that less than 1% of the total 24,817 Dusters produced in 1970 sported this distinctive color. With fewer than 250 units believed to have rolled out of the factory in FM3, and likely fewer than 100 surviving today, this Duster is a true rarity.
Apart from its eye-catching color, this Duster sports a white vinyl top, a rarity compared to the more common black roof. The white interior, especially on a pink car, further enhances its uniqueness, making it a standout among muscle cars from its era.
# FAQs: Answering the Why
## FAQ 1: Why Discuss a Compact Vehicle?
The Duster, though often overlooked, played a significant role in Plymouth’s muscle car lineup. Its unique characteristics, particularly with the 340-cubic-inch engine, make it a noteworthy subject for enthusiasts.
## FAQ 2: What Makes This Duster Special?
The showcased 1970 Duster 340 is special due to its impeccable restoration, rare Moulin Rouge color, and uncommon features like the white vinyl top and interior. Such a combination is a rare find in the world of classic Mopars.
## FAQ 3: Why Highlight the Moulin Rouge Color?
The Moulin Rouge color, available for a brief period in 1970 and on a limited number of Dusters, adds a layer of exclusivity. Its scarcity and vibrant appeal make it a standout choice for those who appreciate distinctive automotive history.
