The Plymouth Barracuda holds a special place in the hearts of muscle car enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike. This iconic vehicle, produced by the Plymouth division of Chrysler Corporation, made its mark on the automotive industry with its distinctive design, powerful performance, and a legacy that spanned over three generations. In this article, we embark on a journey through time, tracing the evolution of the Plymouth Barracuda and examining each of its three generations, highlighting their unique features, advancements, and contributions to the muscle car landscape.
Plymouth Pony Car
| Trim | Production | Engine | Power | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 1st Gen | 1964 – 1974 | 2.8 – 3.7L Chrysler Slant-6 Cylinder | 101 – 145 HP / 102 – 147 PS / 75 – 108 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 1st Gen | 1964 – 1974 | 4.5L Chrysler LA V8 | 180 HP / 182 PS / 130 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
The Plymouth Barracuda was introduced in 1964 as a response to the Ford Mustang, one of the pioneers of the “pony car” class. Built on the Plymouth Valiant platform, the first-generation Barracuda featured a fastback design and innovative wraparound rear glass. It was an instant hit, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts who admired its sleek lines and muscular presence.
Source: Bring-A-Trailer
Under the hood, the first-generation Barracuda offered a range of engine options, including inline-six and V8 powerplants. However, it lacked the brute force of its competitors and was more focused on style and comfort. Despite this, it laid the groundwork for what was to come, becoming an important stepping stone in the Barracuda’s evolution.
Returning to American Muscle Roots
In 1967, the Plymouth Barracuda entered its second generation, marking a significant turning point in its history. This generation witnessed a complete redesign, shedding its compact car image and embracing a more muscular stance. The body lines were more aggressive, and the car’s overall dimensions were larger, providing greater interior space.
| Trim | Production | Engine | Power | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 2nd Gen | 1967 | 3.7L Chrysler Slant-6 Cylinder | 145 HP / 147 PS / 108 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 2nd Gen | 1967 | 4.5L Chrysler LA V8 | 180 HP / 182 PS / 130 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 2nd Gen | 1967 | 6.3L Chrysler “B” Big-Block V8 | 280 HP / 282 PS / 209 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 2nd Gen | 1968 | 5.2 – 5.6L Chrysler LA V8 | < 300 HP / < 304 PS / < 224 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 2nd Gen | 1968 | 7.0L Hemi V8 | 425 HP / 430 PS / 316 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 2nd Gen | 1969 | 7.2L 440 Super Commando V8 | 375 HP / 380 PS / 280 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
One of the highlights of the second-generation Barracuda was the introduction of the famous Formula S package, aimed at enhancing the car’s performance. This package included heavy-duty suspension, larger brakes, and various engine options, including the renowned “B” Big-Block 383 cubic-inch V8 engine, which delivered impressive power and speed.
Source: Bring-A-Trailer
In 1969, the Barracuda reached new heights with the introduction of the limited-production ‘Cuda model. With its bold graphics, hood scoops, and powerful engine options, such as the legendary 426 Hemi V8, the ‘Cuda became an icon of the muscle car era. It solidified the Barracuda’s reputation as a fierce competitor and left an indelible mark on automotive history.
Third Generation ‘Cuda Arrives
The third generation of the Plymouth Barracuda arrived in 1970, boasting a complete redesign and a departure from the previous models. This generation featured more aggressive body lines, a wider stance, and a muscular appearance that exuded power and speed. The ‘Cuda remained a centerpiece of the Barracuda lineup, continuing to captivate muscle car enthusiasts with its performance-oriented features.
Source: Bring-A-Trailer
| Trim | Production | Engine | Power | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 3rd Gen | 1970 – 1971 | 3.2 – 3.7L Chrysler Slant-6 Cylinder | 125 – 145 HP / 126 – 147 PS / 93 – 108 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 3rd Gen | 1972 – 1974 | 6.3 – 7.2L “B” Big-Block V8 | 290 – 390 HP / 294 – 395 PS / 216 – 291 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| 3rd Gen | 1972 – 1974 | 7.0L Hemi V8 | 425 HP / 431 PS / 317 kW | 3/4-Speed Manual 3-Speed Automatic | RWD |
One of the most notable additions to the third-generation Barracuda was the introduction of the E-body platform, shared with the Dodge Challenger. This allowed for greater customization and an expanded range of high-performance engine options, including the 440 Six Pack and the mighty 426 Hemi V8. These engines provided jaw-dropping power and made the Barracuda a force to be reckoned with on both the street and the track.
Source: Bring-A-Trailer
10 Responses
I had a Mopar, Cuda 340, brand new in 72, best car I ever owned, gold with white interior, shaker hood,pistol grip shifter. It was a dream come true.followed it as the style changed over the years, till I bought the 72 with its traditional classy Mopar styling, and it’s classic round tail lites, in my mind the best style it was ever produced in.
My first car in 1977 was a 73 Cuda with a 340 4 barrel Thermobog . Not super fast as they had dropped compression and HP at that point but a few mods and it was a lot of fun and it had awesome looks with the blue with black vinyl top and Keystone Classics. Now jump forward to present time I now have a 1970 AAR 340-6. This car is a total different beast. The factory rated 290 HP. is a joke as this car can run with the big block Cudas and on the right day even beat one here and there. The AAR I now own is factory stock with 391 rear end and 4 speed in Sassy Grass Green.
I’m a Mopar man ,owned a few. 68 Dodge Cornett 500 with a 383 in it .The my dad purchased a new 68 GTX with a 440b and a 4spd 3.54 Dana rear end .I owned that for awhile. But now I restored a 74 Cuda, with a shaker hood and it’s got a 440 ,automatic transmission and 4.11 gears. Love my Cuda but wish it was a 71 because of all the Cuda I think that one looks the best .
My first car was a 71 Cuda 340 4 barrel carb traded in 75 for a 75 Cadillac Eldorado and said back then getting 1500 on a trade I am going to kick myself in the ass not knowing what I know Today. Fortunately I do have a 71 again not a matching numbers car but still a beautiful car and had fun building it .
My 1970 Cuda e body with a 383 v8 four barrel holly, 4 speed Hurst, 392 gears, she would do the quarter mile under 11 sec and top out at 160mph.
I had a ’70 AAR Cuda with a 340 six pack that I worked on and drove for almost 10 years. What a blast! My fave car of all time.
I am the proud owner of the “Nash Bridges 1971 Plymouth Barracuda convertible. Purchased it in 2000 at auction held on Treature Island.
At 16, My first car was a blue 67 Plymouth Barracuda notchback with the 235HP 273 V8 auto. Later when I was 18, I got a hold of a 70 Roadrunner with a 383 auto. Now at 67 , I have a blue 74 Barracuda with a 440 6bbl, auto and air. What great memories, Go MOPAR!!!!!!
Bryson says I am 70 now and have had several mopars my 66 satellite with a wedge was assume got it when I was 18 out of high school ticket haven, but Evan my love for my dad’s 62 Dodge dart 440 convertible powder blue my absolute all time . My sister had a 1967 barracuda fast back , 273 single wheel drive great burnouts little bleach away you go had to buy her w new rear wheel . The absolute best time to grow up . I bought that satellite for 575$ he pulled it into gas station I worked at pumped his gas bought his car 1 week later.
I’m a Plymouth/Mopar man!! Thanks to Richard Petty ” The King” I started with a Valiant 64 push button Auto. The a 68 Barracuda 318. Next ’73 Cuda 340 4 barrel. Which I had to sell when I came back from the Army. I still kick my ass for that! I was broke. My last Mopar ’74 383 Road Runner! Also sold too early. Marriage made me do it. I really enjoyed the hell out those cars! I still dream to own 1 more!