Very true about many not that interested in the details of what sets one year apart from another, especially when looking at cars like the Duster 340. However, looking at this another way, moving away from what makes the car valuable - originality - is better executed by taking a lower performance version and building it up - i.e. hot rodding a /6.
The 1970 Duster 340 was the first of the 340 Dusters and was quite understated but distinctive none the less. To some, the understated nature of the 1970 340 Duster pays tribute to what Mopar was all about, back to it's earlier roots in the early 1960s cars like the Max Wedge cars. For example the dual exhaust with turndowns speak to that, the simple clean exterior design devoid of any tack - ons, yet very purposeful, because those in the know immediately understood what they were looking at, a entry level muscle car that packed a strong punch. The drivetrain did the speaking, not the tacky add - ons.
The 1970 Duster 340 was pure and faithful to the old Mopar formula, sleeper looks packing a tough drivetrain that was a better value than the competition.
Just my opinion, but the original 340 cars look better and bring more dollars, when they remain faithful to their originality. Not many remain - and those that do remain are better served in original condition.
Take a look at dmoore's 1972 340 Duster --- it would be a shame for someone to hack that original car which represents the best of what Mopar had to offer in 1972.
If someone needs a hot rod - start with a /6 and have a blast modifying the car to one's heart content.
