Dust off your classic car knowledge and chat with any Dodge Challenger enthusiast, and the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda will undoubtedly grab their attention. This wasn’t your dad’s pony car anymore.
The third-generation redesign ditched the sleek fastback design for a bold coupe profile. Sharing its platform with the Challenger fostered a friendly rivalry between the two, but their designers kept things distinct with unique exteriors.
Powertrains ran the gamut from fuel-efficient slant-6 engines to tire-shredding V8s, catering to both budget-minded drivers and adrenaline seekers. Spotlight today falls on a special Barracuda that began its life with the standard 318 cubic inch V8.
But its story doesn’t end on the assembly line. This isn’t just another Barracuda; it’s a testament to automotive passion, boasting a comprehensive transformation that’s as awe-inspiring under the hood as it is on the surface.
Originally clad in a fiery Tor-Red paint job, this Barracuda has shed its factory coat for a head-turning shade of purple courtesy of House of Kolors. The result is certainly a bold statement, a testament to the owner’s individuality, and a reminder that the Barracuda looks phenomenal in practically any color.
Despite failing to meet its reserve price of $31,000 at a recent auction, this head-turning classic muscle car refuses to be forgotten. Its vibrant exterior paint job is just the beginning of iconic design elements like hockey-stick stripes and a prominent rear wing that pay homage to the golden age of muscle cars.
“Cuda” badging proudly proclaims its heritage, while dual exhaust outlets and a blacked-out tail panel hint at the power lurking beneath the hood.
A silver grille injects a touch of sophistication, and details like hood pins, fog lights, and chrome-finished 18-inch wheels with staggered-width tires raise the visual experience. This isn’t just a car, it’s a rolling statement piece that commands attention wherever it goes.
This classic car underwent a serious engine transformation. Originally equipped with a modest 318 cubic inch V8, it now boasts a muscular 408 ci stroker unit. This powerhouse was built from a 360 ci V8 foundation, enhanced with a bored-out block and a longer-stroke crankshaft.
Performance upgrades abound, including custom cylinder heads, high-flow valves, and an Edelbrock intake manifold. A Holley carburetor delivers the necessary fuel, while Mopar Performance parts ensure proper circulation of oil, water, and fuel. The exhaust system breathes freely thanks to TTi headers.
Sending power to the rear wheels is a rebuilt TorqueFlite automatic with a high-stall converter for optimal performance. While the original engine produced a mere 230 horsepower, this revamped powerhouse unleashes significantly more muscle.
