The First Hemi Cuda

In 1983, Gary Dodane made an investment without even realizing it, purchasing the first Hemi Cuda to come off the production line and make it to the public — for $500. Not knowing anything about the car's history, Gary noticed the serial number had a lot of zeros. Further research revealed his Cuda was the third production Hemi Cuda, and the first to make it to a buyer — the first two having been scrapped before leaving the plant. This Cuda has some unique options, in addition to the Hemi V8, with a four-speed pistol grip transmission, overhead console, and tachometer delete. The car has been resprayed in its original Alpine White, with the interior and mechanicals remaining all original. Only 17,000 miles are on the odometer, with the car having spent nearly 40 years at the NATMUS museum in Auburn, Indiana. After four decades of ownership, Gary is looking for another steward to take this piece of muscle car history.