Gauging whether a classic is desirable is sometimes challenging, but this 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda leaves no doubt. It has generated significant interest since hitting the market, but there could be some distance to go before it finds a new home. It presents well, with its engine bay housing the legendary 340/Six-Pack V8. It promises impressive performance that would satisfy all but the most hardened enthusiast. The ‘Cuda is listed here on eBay in Bee Spring, Kentucky. Bidding has raced to $56,900 but remains below the reserve.

Plymouth launched its Third Generation Barracuda range for the 1970 model year, sharing its E-Body platform with the Dodge Challenger. Both cars received near-universal praise for their styling, and the sporting ‘Cuda variants remain among the most desirable Mopar models. Dan Gurney’s All American Racers team campaigned the ‘Cuda in the cut-and-thrust Trans Am series, with the company producing the AAR ‘Cuda as a homologation version. This AAR presents exceptionally well for its age, although the seller doesn’t indicate whether it is a genuine survivor or has undergone restoration. Its factory Tor Red paint shines nicely, with the distinctive stripes and black hood looking crisp and clean. The hood is the correct fiberglass item, held in place by locking pins. The car retains its correct spoilers, side-exit exhaust, and rear window louvers. Its beauty is more than skin deep because the underside shots confirm it is rock-solid and rust-free. The chrome and glass show no problems, and the ‘Cuda rolls on a set of 15″ Rallye wheels.

Trans Am rules mandated a maximum engine capacity of 305ci, which is what Gurney’s team utilized under the hood of their racing ‘Cudas. However, roadgoing versions received the 340ci V8, topped by a Six-Pack induction system. This motor sends 290hp and 345 ft/lbs of torque to the 8¾” rear end via a four-speed manual transmission. Stopping power is provided by power-assisted front disc brakes. The AAR could cover the ¼-mile in 14.8 seconds, and while that figure is marginally slower than that produced by a Camaro Z28, it pips the Mustang Boss 302 at the post. The seller provides no information on whether this car’s drivetrain is original. However, the blurry shot of the engine block stamp suggests this classic is numbers-matching. There is no information on how the Plymouth runs or drives, but the car’s overall condition gives cause for quiet optimism.

One aspect of this ‘Cuda needing nothing is its interior. The seller states it received a recent retrim, making its spotless presentation unsurprising. The Black vinyl upholstered surfaces are pristine, the carpet is free from visible wear, and the dash is perfect. The ultra-cool pistol grip shifter pokes purposefully from a console featuring immaculate faux woodgrain trim. This interior is functional, missing such luxuries as air conditioning and power windows. However, the factory AM radio should relieve boredom if occupants tire of the glorious tune sung by the Six-Pack under the hood.

This 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda ticks the boxes for those seeking a relatively rare Mopar classic. Plymouth produced 2,724 examples of the AAR in a concentrated build scheduled between March 11th and April 17th, 1970. This one is a gem, helping to explain why it has already attracted thirty-three bids. We can speculate on a potential sale price, but recent results suggest that if this Plymouth is all it seems, it could threaten $80,000 before the hammer falls. Would you be interested in this ‘Cuda at that price, or will you sit back with me as an interested spectator as this auction draws to a close?