The Plymouth Barracuda made a notable impact in 1970 with a limited production of 666 units featuring the powerful 426 cubic-inch V8 engine, which produced 425 hp and 490 lb-ft of torque. Although it launched on April 1, 1964, ahead of the Mustang in the pony car arena, the Barracuda initially couldn’t accommodate Chrysler’s big-block V8s.
It wasn’t until a major redesign in 1970 that the Barracuda could finally house the legendary Hemi engine, albeit in restricted numbers. By the close of 1971, stringent emissions standards and increased insurance costs led to the discontinuation of the Hemi engine.
Among the 666 Hemi Barracudas produced in 1970, 652 were hardtops, with 368 featuring automatic transmissions and 284 equipped with four-speeds. Despite sparse historical records from Chrysler, a private registry diligently tracks these rare vehicles.
1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda 426 Hemi Auction (Plymouth)
For instance, only four of the documented 262 Burnt Tan Hemi Cudas were produced in 1970. Additionally, just ten had power windows, and combining these features can drive the price above $200,000.
Previously sold for $165,000 at a Scottsdale auction in 2008, this car has seen limited use since. In November 2022, it was listed on eBay for $180,000, raising questions about authenticity due to a door sticker discrepancy and a partial repaint in 2015.
Despite these issues, the car retains its original engine and transmission, verified through various matching numbers. Currently offered for $225,000 in Hilton, New York, this rare Hemi Cuda is expected to attract significant interest at auction, given its low mileage and originality.
