Considering Plymouth only produced sixty-six examples of the 1970 Barracuda Gran Coupe Convertible equipped with the 383/TorqueFlite drivetrain combination, it is a rare treat for two to land on our desks at Barn Finds within days. However, the two cars are very different propositions. While the first was an original and unrestored survivor, this Convertible has seen some changes throughout its life. It would suit an enthusiast less concerned about originality than one seeking a spotless driver. The Barracuda is listed here on eBay in Pompano Beach, Florida. Frantic bidding has seen the price race to $42,000, although it remains short of the reserve.
This Barracuda makes a bold statement in Vitamin C Orange with contrasting White stripes. The seller admits it underwent a repaint, although they failed to mention this included a color change. They provide a clear shot of the Fender Tag, revealing its original shade as Burnt Tan. Some potential bidders may find that offputting, especially considering the rarity of its drivetrain combination. The paint shines as beautifully as you might expect, considering it recently emerged from a private collection of a genuine enthusiast. The panels are straight, the stripes are crisp, and there’s no evidence of rust. It features a functioning White power top and spotless trim. I believe the Rallye wheels may be a later addition, but they never look out of place on a Barracuda of this age.
This Convertible’s interior continues the theme of spotless presentation, although it is another area that received some changes. The White leather and vinyl trim isn’t original, with the Tag confirming it rolled off the line trimmed in Code P6T5 Saddle Tan vinyl. It looks classy, and there is no evidence of wear or marks. The dash is perfect, as is the console. There are no cracks or other problems, and the faux woodgrain is immaculate. As well as the retrim, it features an aftermarket Kenwood stereo occupying the factory radio’s slot in the dash. The original owner desired their comfort items, with this Gran Coupe coming to its new owner with air conditioning, power windows, and cruise control.
Lifting the hood reveals an aspect of this Convertible that is muddy. The VIN confirms it rolled off the line equipped with a 383ci V8 producing 290hp. The Tag also states it featured the A-727 TorqueFlite transmission. As with the previously featured vehicle, this is 1-of-66 with that combination. It provided excellent performance and a ¼-mile ET of 15.5 seconds. The news is generally good, with this classic running and driving perfectly. However, the seller refers to the engine as wearing the correct date code. That raises the possibility that it isn’t original, which is a question worth investigating if any bidders consider this Barracuda as a long-term investment. If it is numbers-matching, it is possible to reverse the cosmetic changes to achieve originality. It is just a matter of considering whether such a strategy is financially viable.
This 1970 Barracuda Gran Coupe Convertible is striking, but it won’t suit a purist. The color and interior changes could negatively impact its ultimate value, and a question hangs over the originality of its engine. However, it hasn’t hurt the bidding, with sixty-five submitted at the time of writing. Even with the changes, I won’t be surprised if it eventually reaches $60,000. Do you agree?
This car is an oddity, for sure. Many added ‘Cuda only features, but with all the Barracuda Gran Coupe badges. Not really a clone…more of a “wannebe”.
Engine is even painted orange, like a 335 hp version – the correct color for a 330 hp 4bbl is blue.
While this has great eye appeal, the other example is more for the Purist. “Choose wisely, ‘O Lucky One (who can)!”
Big_Fun, I think you put into words what I was thinking. And two in 2 days is pretty remarkable in and of itself! If I were to be offered only one of the two at no charge, I might choose the other, although as you said today’s Gran Coupe sure does have great eye appeal. I really want to own them both! Both are outstanding write-ups too Adam, thank you.
Nash Bridges inspired color scheme?
His was yellow.
Damn black and white TV . .
Yes; kind of a medium mustard shade.
This is the color scheme I referred to in the comments of the last one of these, except it had no graphics and had a factory blueprinted engine.
As teenagers we had fun with it. We painted flames all over it with poster paints once. Daddy, the Plymouth dealer, exchanged it for a green Fury with a turtle top and the fun stopped.
I’m thinking close to $ $$$,$$$.$$ figures.
A 1970 Mopar 383ci only was good for 290hp ?
With a 2bbl carb, yes. 4bbl was 335hp.
Super cool!! Check out the sellers other 15 cars listed. Sellers feedback number is only (6).
Ok. This could be the first time I seen a well option barracuda like this. The VIN number BP 27NOB.. Should be BH27 or clone type BS27 the since it has a 383 super commando 4 barrel. 335 HP. This also has 6-way manual seat, cruise control, rally dashboard,power windows and air conditioning. The fender tag is there underneath the AC hose I just wish he took a picture of the tag and post it. The hockey stick decal 383 would not be on this model. He is also asking $89,000 for this. It is a beautiful Cuda excuse me Barracuda! As for the motor the grand coups came with 383 large Carter 2 bbl or 318 and 225. It was not considered a performance vehicle. Just like the Mercury cougar they call it a secretary’s car with smaller engine’s. Good luck to the next owner. 🇺🇸🐻🇺🇸
Excuse me. $98,988.. wow..
I’ll send it this afternoon, working till 2
bh27g1b245791
You seem knowledgeable about barracudas, I have a 71 barracuda convertable shriners in clementine Yellow or butterscotch w/ white top only a few were produced ,do you know anything about them ? I would appreciate any feedback, Thank you
Jon.. what is the vin number on your ride? 🐻🇺🇸
Jon . Just give me the first half of the vin. 71 Barracuda is rare since it’s the only year using 4 headlamps. Thanks.. Stephen
I always think something fishy (pun intended) is going on when I see 74 bids and only 12 bidders. One of them has a 1 feedback and easily has 3/4s of the bids.
I bet this would be a lot rarer if it had the SLANT 6 – with full gages, a/c, cruise ctrl, & p/w!
Thanks Joe, but 318 all original, in 1976 I had high rise, holley 4 bbl,headers ,50s on the back 60s on the front. sweet ride for a 16 year old
Well I didn’t look at where it’s at yet, but if it stays under 60, that’s quite a nice automobile to drive around in, beautiful color combo, great options, 383, maybe not a purist choice, but same money as a E350 Benz, or 3 series BMW, your gonna have a lot more fun in this
Went to $69,600 reserve not met.