In the waning years of the golden era of muscle cars, Chrysler Corporation was on a roll. Cars like Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda and the Dodge Challenger R/T captivated gearheads then and now with their ground-pounding performance. However, due to their reputation, ‘Cudas and Challengers have long been priced out of reach for many enthusiasts.
But A-body cars, like the Dodge Dart and the Plymouth Scamp, are still an affordable way to get into classic Mopars. That’s why this 1973 Plymouth Scamp, offered with no reserve, is our auction pick of the week.
The Scamp name first showed up in 1971, when Chrysler Corp. decided Plymouth needed to spice up the image of the conservatively styled Valiant. The Dodge Dart Swinger two-door hardtop was a success, so why not make a Plymouth version? Never one to pass up an opportunity for badge engineering, Mopar used an amalgamation of Plymouth Valiant and Dart Swinger sheet metal to create the Scamp’s muscular styling. The Scamp, and other cars using the compact A-platform, utilized unibody architecture with a torsion bar suspension setup up front.
The Scamp was a modest performer in base trim. The standard engine was Mopar’s indestructible but uninspiring 198 cid slant-six, but owners could select the venerable 318 cid V-8 for a performance bump. Additional options like the heavy-duty suspension and locking rear differentials were available for those seeking more performance. While a four-speed manual was available, most Scamps, like our feature car, came with a three-speed automatic.
The current owner’s father purchased our feature car in 1972, and it has been lovingly owned by the same family ever since. If your favorite color is green, you’re in luck. This Scamp is finished in Forrest Green Metallic with a complementing green vinyl roof and interior. The car looks extremely clean and presents well. It was reportedly treated to a complete body-off restoration totaling in excess of $120,000 by Paul’s Rod and Restos in Long Island, New York.
This Scamp has been lightly restomodded to make it more drivable in modern traffic. Originally equipped with the slant-six, the car was upgraded to the 318 V-8 which exhales through dual exhausts. Other modifications include upgraded brakes (discs up front and larger drums out back), and Cragar Magnum wheels.
If you’re looking for an entry into the “Mopar or no car” club, but don’t have Hemi ‘Cuda money, get your bids in on this Scamp. The auction ends on Wednesday, May 3, at 4:30 p.m. ET.
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