Hemmings Find of the Day – 1972 Plymouth Fury Virginia State Police cruiser

Published by Mike on May 29, 2015

Retired police cars have a certain appeal among collectors, especially those with a law enforcement background. Sold at auction for bargain-basement prices when their tour of duty is up, many ex-cruisers go on to serve a second shift as taxicabs or affordable family cars. Few survive the ravages of time, which is what makes this 1972 Plymouth Fury Virginia State Police car, for sale on Hemmings.com, so appealing. Though a work in progress, the car is complete and ready for its next watch commander to finish the restoration. The VSP decals are period-correct, as are the GE siren, Motorola radio and Beacon Junior “gumball” roof light, though the next owner would be well advised to check their local laws concerning former police cars before purchase. A part of both Plymouth and Virginia State Police history, chances are you’ll never see an identical car at the weekend show-and-shine. From the seller’s description:

1972 Plymouth Fury, This is a real, documented Virginia State Police car in service in Chesapeake, VA from 1972-78. The car comes with documentation from the Virginia State Police, 2 build sheets and original police and fleet literature from Chrysler. This is a rare find.
I have completed about 85% of the restoration but have lost interest and moved on to other things.
The body has been completely restored and except for a few spots on the rear bumper, is completely rust-free. It has been painted in correct VSP Blue over Grey and has all the correct VSP decals on it. Check your local laws before operating this vehicle on public highways, the decals may need to be covered depending on what state you live in.
The engine is the original, numbers matching 440 and the transmission is the original, numbers matching 727 Torqueflite. Both have been rebuilt and the car runs strong. The engine and engine compartment should be repainted and detailed though.
The suspension has mostly been rebuilt and feels tight. The tires have recently been replaced. The wheels are the original “H code” 15″ steel wheels with correct hubcaps.
It comes with all date-coded, correct VSP police equipment including Motorola radio, underhood GE siren, and Beacon Jr rotating “gumball” light. Everything has been tested and works but will need to be wired.
The interior and wiring will require the most work to complete the restoration. The headliner needs to be replaced but a new one from Legendary comes with the car. The seat covers, door panels and dash are in OK condition but will require restoration work.