Modern Challenger SRT Hellcat Claims Identity as a '71 Cuda | Carscoops

      The custom bodywork is completely constructed from carbon fiber and is built on the platform of the Hellcat.

      A unique Cuda reverse restomod is currently for sale and is based on the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat.

      The conversion process required 3,000 hours of labor and this is the fourth of ten units to be made.

      This muscle car will be auctioned at Indy after not selling at Kissimmee.

      If the notion of a Plymouth Barracuda that boasts the performance and handling of a contemporary muscle car appeals to you, this might be the perfect vehicle. It is a modern Dodge Challenger Hellcat revamped to resemble a 1971 Cuda, set to be auctioned at Mecum’s Indy event this May.

      The build started as a 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, but the resemblance ends there. The entire exterior has been redesigned to reflect the bold, nostalgic curves of the classic third-generation Plymouth Barracuda from the early 1970s, sharing its platform with the Challenger of that time.

      The bodywork is fashioned from prepreg carbon fiber and features a CNC-machined grille at the front. The four round LED headlights have been carried over from the Challenger, while the taillights have been reshaped to closely replicate those of the ‘71 Cuda.

      The reverse restomod sports a custom Pink Metallic finish, with clear carbon details on the hood and rear fenders. It is equipped with black three-piece alloy wheels and pink brake calipers, adding a vibrant touch.

      Inside, the pink stitching and accents harmonize with the exterior color, creating a playful contrast against the black leather seats. The interior includes carbon fiber accents, a starry headliner, and Alcantara inserts on the lower dashboard, center console, and door cards to enhance its sporty feel.

      Performance Remains Hellcat Strong

      Under the hood, it retains the iconic Hellcat specifications. The muscle car is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing 707 hp (527 kW / 717 PS) in its standard configuration. While no significant performance upgrades are included, it does feature a custom exhaust with dual tailpipes positioned in the center. With only 55 miles (89 km) on the odometer, it is essentially new.

      The listing states that the transformation took over 3,000 hours and is the fourth of ten produced. Although Mecum does not specify the builder, this Cuda seems to have been crafted by Six Twelve Auto Worx.

      Interestingly, this custom muscle car did not sell at the Mecum Kissimmee 2025 auction in January, even with the highest bid reaching $275,000. The seller is now optimistic about a better result at the Indy auction in May. For reference, a purple Cuda-styled Challenger from the same builder sold for $310,000 at the Mecum Kissimmee 2024 auction, although it was based on the Hellcat Redeye, not the regular Hellcat.

      In addition to Six Twelve Auto Worx’s Cuda projects, another firm called Modern Classix is also transforming Challengers into Cuda replicas using a different body kit. One of their builds fetched $160,000 at Mecum Indy 2024.