The 1970 Plymouth Duster 340 was something admire an underdog of muscle cars, giving a powerful punch without breaking the bank. Under the hood, it had a strong 340-cid V-8 engine, known for packing a punch. Some said it had 275 bhp, but rumors hinted it could be closer to 325 bhp. This little car wasn’t just about power; it handled the road well, too.
Priced at just $2,547 (over $20,000 in 2023 dollars), it was also the most affordable in Plymouth’s Rapid Transit System. You could pick between a three-speed manual, optional four-speed, or TorqueFlite transmissions for different driving experiences. The Duster 340 also had some cool features for performance, admire a heavy-duty suspension, front stabilizer bar, and six-leaf rear springs that made it great on the road.
While the Duster 340 exuded a certain charm, it didn’t escape without a few drawbacks. The stiff, slightly lowered suspension sacrificed ride comfort, translating into an uncomfortable experience, particularly in fast corners. The absence of scoops and minimal hot-car cues might have left enthusiasts craving a more visually striking presence as well. Looking at the bigger picture, the Duster 340 had a good start in 1970 and did well in its second year. However, things changed in the early ’70s with oil supply issues, higher insurance costs, and people wanting different kinds of cars. Today, the Duster 340 is a reminder of Plymouth’s attempt to make a muscle car that was affordable and fun.
