Fellas, I have seen and heard both opinions. But would like to know if there is a definitive answer.

On a 71 Cuda with the Billboard are the rear marker frames the color of the car or color of the stripe?

color of the stripe

they are what ever dealer ship did as most of if not all were shipped to the dealership with the stripe in the trunk don't know about all dealerships but the one I worked at part time helping body man mechanics prep the new cars before putting on the lot or showroom . One would think that dealership would do it as quick as possible . did ever try to mask off a lens and get no overspray on it in 1970 no scotch brite pads , back then ,lets not forget how easy it is to get the marker lens out (sarcasm) litte common sence goes a long way

If it matters, Graveyard Carz always makes them the color of the stripe. I agree too so it blends correctly and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb.

it makes no sense that installing '71 'cuda billboards was intentionally left to the dealerships - the factories had employees that their sole job was installing stripes all day every day, they would become proficient at their job

Thanks These responses lead me to believe it is variable. which makes sense as I have seen high end restorations both ways. I personally like it to match the stripe, but some color combos it looks perfectly fine being body color.

I have to disagree. They always match the stripe. I seem to remember the light assembly on billboard cars has a B or W casting designating black or white. I will try to find a picture

Here’s a thread that explains it well…..

https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/2717734/1971-cuda-billboards.html

Yes, originally the stripes were installed on the assembly line, but as production ramped up the decals slowed production, plus many new car customers were displeased at the huge "billboard" plastered on the side of the car, many road test/new car magazines back in the day made note of the billboards "now" being shipped in the trunk for dealer install....which lead to a few cars having body colored lights because the dealer didn't know or have the color keyed stripe marker lites, nor could care or wasn't informed.... many items that "could" be installed on the prodction line were usually shipped on various models for the dealer to install....