When it comes to classic cars, the term "survivor" describes a vehicle that hasn't been modified, has never been in a crash, and has all of its original parts save for maintenance items. Granted, the term has been loosely applied to highly original classics that have been repainted in recent years. Those rigs are nice, too, but fully-fledged survivors are quite rare. And some are highly expensive too.
Plymouth Superbirds and Dodge Charger Daytonas, for instance, can fetch seven-figure sums in 100% all-original and unrestored condition—assuming they have HEMI engines. Certain versions of the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro also go for big bucks. But for every high-dollar survivor, there are tens of unrestored gems that can be had for a lot less. Because not every classic nameplate is highly desirable.
The Plymouth Duster is one of those rigs. Sold in more than 1.3 million units from 1970 to 1976, the Duster is still viewed as a throw-away classic. Perhaps far from surprising since it wasn't available with a big-block V8 like its B-body and E-body siblings. As a result, highly original examples, be they restored or unrestored, aren't as expensive as the equivalent Barracuda or Road Runner.
As of April 2024, the most expensive factory-stock Duster ever auctioned changed hands for $159,500 (including fees). It's a finely restored 1971 Curious Yellow rig with a numbers-matching drivetrain and an extensive options list. The 1972 Tor-Red example you see here was nowhere near as expensive at $82,500, but there's a catch. While it may look like a nice restoration from a distance, this Mopar is an unrestored vehicle. And it's the most expensive of its kind.
Auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson's Palm Beach 2024 event, this 1972 Duster 340 is arguably the most original A-body Mopar in existence. According to Chrysler expert David Wise, this Duster is pretty much a benchmark vehicle. It's the Duster by which you measure all the other Dusters out there. Because not only is it still all-original from bumper to bumper (yes, including the shiny paint), but it still has all the factory inspection marks.
Moreover, both the interior and the trunk still have the original mats, and all the factory options are still in place. The list includes the front bench seat, light package, four-speed manual, Sure-Grip 3.23 rear end, tinted glass, painted side mirror, and the AM radio. The numbers-matching unit is obviously a four-barrel 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) V8, which delivered 240 horsepower and 290 pound-feet (393 Nm) of torque when new.
Although it's far more affordable than many B-body Mopars in this condition, this compact proves that Duster prices are slowly rising. It's also worth noting that this 1972 survivor is one of the five most expensive Dusters ever auctioned, regardless of condition. And all five crossed the block in 2024.
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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