[Images/Mecum]

Our infatuation with the 1971 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda convertible has been well documented.

I even gave it the top spot on my Christmas wish list last year.

Maybe Santa Claus was the high bidder who recently paid $3.5 million for one of only 11 1971 convertibles ever made at the Mecum auction in Seattle, WA. (Hopefully, he doesn’t scrape it up bringing it down my chimney this Christmas.) Whoever won the bidding for the ‘Cuda paid the highest price ever for a Chrysler product sold at auction. In fact, the $3.5 million mark absolutely obliterates the previous high number of $2.2 million paid for a similar HEMI ‘Cuda about seven years ago.

So was the car worth the price?

According to Mecum, this particular HEMI ‘Cuda is one of just two four-speeds delivered in the U.S., and the only one with its original powertrain.

In other words, it’s the rarest of the rare.

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Author: David Fuller

David Fuller is OnAllCylinders' managing editor. During his 20-year career in the auto industry, he has covered a variety of races, shows, and industry events and has authored articles for multiple magazines. He has also partnered with mainstream and trade publications on a wide range of editorial projects. In 2012, he helped establish OnAllCylinders, where he enjoys covering all facets of hot rodding and racing.