At a total loss for an explanation

First thing to do is figure out if it's spark or fuel if you can. Couple things you can do........spend some time watching

Do what it takes to "rig" a fuel pressure gauge to the carb. Used to be/ still is you can buy an inexpensive vacuum/ pressure test gauge at the parts store and whatever fittings you need to "tee" the gauge in.

While you are at it, get some 12V LED or lamps with pigtail sockets, a couple, maybe

Rig one to the coil +, and the other to the "key" switch side of the ballast resistor

Start and run the car and when it stops try to notice.....did the lamp(s) go out/ dim, or did the pressure drop

If neither happened, might be spark

IMMEDIATELY crank the engine while testing for spark at the coil. If no spark, but your 12V lamp shows power, then it's "right there" in the ignition somewhere

At that point you may or may not be able to do more tests

WHAT KIND of ignition you have, IE Mopar ECU? MSD something? HEI? Distributor "ready to run" etc?