383-Equipped: 1967 Plymouth Barracuda

This 1967 Plymouth Barracuda spent the 1990s on the drag strip, but the current owner returned it to its rightful place on our roads. It presents well as a driver-grade classic, while its engine bay houses a 383ci V8 that should satisfy most die-hard performance enthusiasts. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Barracuda listed here on eBay in Castle Rock, Colorado. The seller has adopted an unusual strategy, setting both their auction opening bid and the BIN figures at $39,500. It makes you wonder why anyone would submit a bid instead of simply hitting the button.

The Barracuda beat the Ford Mustang to market as the world’s first pony car, but only by around two weeks. However, the Ford proved irresistible, selling in extraordinary numbers. Plymouth released the Second Generation Barracuda in 1967, taking a more conventional approach by eliminating features such as the enormous curved back window. This first-year example presents nicely in Bright Red with Black stripes. The paint holds an impressive shine, and the panels are straight. I can’t spot any evidence of rust, and the glass and trim are in good condition. It isn’t an original survivor; features like the enormous scoop on the lift-off fiberglass hood, the fiberglass trunk lid, and the wider spun-aluminum rear wheels all hint at its 1990s competition history. Combine those features with the “383” designation embedded in the stripes, and it is clear that this Barracuda is more than a pretty face.

Decoding the Barracuda’s VIN confirms that the first owner ordered this classic with the E-Code version of the 273ci V8 under the hood. It delivered a very healthy 235hp and 260 ft/lbs of torque. However, I have never heard an owner state that their classic has too much power, and adopting the mantra that there’s no substitute for cubic inches, this Barracuda’s 273 has made way for a 383. The motor features a 0.030″ overbore, 10:1 pistons, an Edelbrock intake, a TTi exhaust, and other updates. It sends 325hp to the 4.10 Dana 60 Sure Grip rear end via a three-speed A-727 TorqueFlite transmission featuring a reverse valve body and a 10″ converter. That combination is about as bulletproof as it gets, while the twenty-gallon fuel tank, Holley electric pump, larger lines, aluminum radiator, electric water pump, and new master cylinder should ensure reliability. The custom back wheels wear new 12″ tires, ensuring that almost every one of the engine’s ponies finds its way to Planet Earth. Although not stated specifically, the Barracuda appears to be a turnkey proposition promising a very rapid motoring experience.

The Barracuda’s racing history makes the presence of additional gauges and the Grant sports wheel unsurprising. However, the return to road duties prompted the owner to give the Black vinyl interior some TLC. They fitted a new carpet set, a new headliner, new door panels, and all-new door and window seals. That should keep dust and moisture at bay and ensure the interior is presented to a high standard. Although the car is missing its factory radio, the bucket seats, console, and factory tachometer provide a luxurious driving experience.

The Second Generation Barracuda is a handsome vehicle. This 1967 example presents extremely well as a driver-grade classic, while the wider wheels visible in the image above hint at its competition heritage. The V8 specs hiding beneath the fiberglass hood would deliver significantly better performance than even the range-topping Formula S in 1967. It hasn’t generated enormous interest since hitting the market, but it only takes one person for it to find a new home. Do you think that will happen?