UPDATE 11/17/2023: We recently featured this 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda with a rare bench seat, and while the bidding was spirited, it appears it failed to sell. This is not unusual for classics within this price range, but the seller has decided to take another swing at finding it a new home. We can’t determine where the bidding reached at the auction’s conclusion, but we know it sat at $75,100 when this article initially went live in September. It appears there have been no changes in its details or circumstances since the previous auction, but it is now listed here on eBay. Bidding sits at $44,550, and given the level it reached previously, it is unsurprising that it remains short of the reserve.
09/20/2023: The third and final generation of the Plymouth Barracuda was in production between 1970 and 1974, but an uncommon one-year-only offering for 1970 was the AAR ‘Cuda, Plymouth’s entry into the Sports Car Club of America’s Trans Am racing circuit. The company had to build at least 2,500 street versions for the car to qualify for race status, so the fortunate few who got one of these were treated to a blacked-out fiberglass hood, unique stripe down the side, side-exit exhaust, and a 340 with three 2-Barrel carburetors on top. These don’t come up for sale as often as many other E-Bodies, so if you’ve been waiting for a nice example, this 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda here on eBay might be the right one for you. The car is in Cary, North Carolina.
This one’s said to have been sold new in Virginia, then moved nearby to West Virginia, where somebody was restoring it in 1989-90. Next was an owner in Nevada who did more work on the car between 1990 and 1993, followed by the seller who purchased the Plymouth in 1993. While it’s not stated exactly what all has been done to get the sheet metal into the beautiful condition we’re seeing it in now, the seller does say that the car has never undergone an entire ground-up restoration but emphasizes that the body has no dents or scratches, and the paint is in excellent shape.
Looking at the inside, one of the things I found unusual was the seating arrangement up front since I was expecting at least buckets and perhaps a console, so I was surprised to see this one has a bench seat. Those in the know have placed AAR ‘Cuda production numbers at 2,724, with some 1,614 of them made with the 727 TorqueFlite, but I’m speculating a considerably larger amount of these were equipped with a floor shifter rather than a column selector. The seller states the interior is in fine condition all the way around, with the upholstery and carpeting like new, plus a dash that’s said to be in great shape. However, the odometer is no longer registering miles.
The ‘Cuda is listed as numbers-matching, so that’s the original 340 Six Barrel under the hood. The owner has done a lot of the minor maintenance on himself but enlisted the help of a few local mechanics to keep the engine properly tuned, with some recent attention given to the fuel components, including a new gas tank and rebuilding the three carburetors. The seller also says one of his regular mechanics is a Mopar fan and gave his confirmation that the car is worth what they’re looking to sell for, so I’m curious if any of our readers may have any ideas where the dollar amount might be set to make the reserve disappear and the car eligible to exchange hands?
That is by far the best potography i’ve seen. What beautiful pictures, they make that car pop!
Photography*
Assuming you’re referring to the photos of the car by the old barn, I don’t agree. By journalistic standards, the lighting is dim and inconsistent, the front end is partially obscured by brush, in the rear 3/4 shot the front wheels are turned the wrong direction, and cars belong on pavement and should be photographed there, not in the back yard. It would have looked far better staged on a stone or dirt driveway leading up to the barn door.
Beautiful car, nonetheless.
It’s just the way I preferred to do it.
Dirt driveway screams harsh environment for a vehicle, especially a classic, check owners manual for more information.
To CCFisher, I bet you’re real fun at parties.
Thanks, I’m a professional photographer whose done a lot of cars and trucks.
Nice pictures! And nice you didn’t chose to respond to the Monday Morning Quarterback.
You’ve done this very well..don’t listen to these know it all wannabes.
I like the pics. To me they look like an “every day” kind of setting which makes it easier to envision owning it.
Thanks Rolo. I’ve shot for many car magazines. We’re just waiting for the minimum bid and we’re almost there.
I didn’t see a power steering pump, but I saw the brake booster. A neat cat, indeed.
Thanks. I’m trying to decide whether to post it again on Ebay or try here instead. Any thoughts anyone?
A53 code is the Trans Am pkg. Adds a ton of goodies. 3.55 gear ⚙️ or 3.91
Very cool w the column shift and bench.
It’s different for sure, being a T/A with column shift & bench seat. Personally, I would much rather have the Floor-speed & buckets.
You’ve done this very well..don’t listen to these know it all wannabes.
Good looking car. Interesting the bench seat column shifter configuration.
Super nice car! Never knew there was an automatic version before. Over the past 50 years, I’ve known 3 guys who owned the 70 AAR and seen one at an auto show. All had the 4 speed.
I knew a guy in college whose dad worked for Chrysler who managed to get one of these. He allegedly was quite successful on Woodward Avenue back in the day. In my opinion the most desirable Barracuda of all time, and this one’s very pretty despite the bench seat and column shift.
Probably looking for 6 figures.
More than I’ve got! 🤣
It’s a AAR 125k if not 60k cause it’s still a cuda
I’m looking for a lot less than 125k and just using the money to pay my massive medical bills.
God Bless you and keep you well…
Get well soon
How much do you really want for the car?
If my memory serves me right. There were more TA’s than AAR’s. This AAR is beautiful looking. I seen a TA with a bench seat with the buddy seat (arm rest). It’s rare enough with this set up. Either the reserve is $80,000 or looking for the magic number of $100,000!! I am pretty sure this AAR will bring a trophy home at a car show all the time. Unless your up against other AAR and TA’s!😄 Good luck to the next owner! 🐻🇺🇸
Commonly quoted production numbers for T/A is 2399; 2724 for AAR.
There were more AAR’s built than TA’s……2724 AAR’s, 2399 TA’s…….
What size is the engine?
Read the article.
This is the Sea Capn’s car,,ARRRRR,,matey,,seriously( oh why start now?) evrything today is big block this, and hemi that for these, when in reality, we rarely, if ever saw those. Maybe at Union Grove, but they made poor everyday vehicles. THIS, was much more like it. No snarling beast under the hood, or neck jerking power shifts, had the Cuda/Challenger style, and a PLAUSIBLE motor. I believe these, like all “6 paks”, run on the center carb, until you mash the gas, and its Niagara Falls down the intake. Hang on, ma. Automatic for the ladies, or folks that can’t shift, not many of the NON-monster motor cars, could keep up to this. Naturally, in keeping with the times, the owner wants to cash in on the crazy, short lasting riches these seem to go for today. Newsflash, it’s not a Jag or a Rolls/Lambo, it’s a freakin’ tin can Plymouth,,,sigh, air conditioners to the Eskimoes,,,nice car.
🤑😂🤑😂🤑😂
Like the Union Grove mention … after prom nite in ’71 in Chicago we all went to Great Lakes for the races … great memories …
Sunday, Sunday, Sunday,,,,,,
Definitely great memories. I used to take 83 out of Mt Pros all the way up. Way out in the sticks back then. Watched some great races! Made some great friends during that time, most of whom are no longer with us, but many of their cars are!
I have a special soft spot for all the early Trans Am cars of all makes, but especially the ‘Cudas. Probably the best looking pony car package ever, and supercool touches like fast steering, side exhaust, pistol grips, AND the brilliant 340 motor. My personal dream list in order:
1. AAR Cuda
2. Boss 302 Cougar Eliminator
3. Challenger T/A
4. 67-69 Z/28 (especially 69 RS)
5. 70-73 Z/28 (especially RS)
6. Boss 302 Mustang
7. Pontiac Trans Am (only because they became so common)
8. Donahue Javelin (Not sure I’ve ever seen one in person)
I think that’s all of them.
I had the good fortune of owning #s 1, 4, and 5 when they were new. (and my bro owned an AAR then too), and some other interesting iron. If only…
Many memories without any pictures, except in my mind. These were fun cars in fun times. This car would look and (if healthy) drive nicely anywhere.
That’s a good list. I agree.
My Dad has a Plum Crazy 70 Cuda’ with the high end 340 that he ordered and purchased new. It also has the bench seat (looks exactly like this one too) and this AAR is the first Cuda’ I’ve seen in a long time with the bench seat as well. My Dad was never a bucket seat guy so I would guess that was one of those things you could uncheck the box on. I keep calling it Dad’s Cuda’, but recent circumstances have now made it mine. Love the car, but would rather have him here with me to enjoy it.
I grew up in the early 70’s and the bench seat was a must, if you took your girlfriends to the drive-in movies. Just my speculation. Cool car, bench seat, what else could you ask for, except a van, which I had.
A pillow for the drive line tunnel helps the GF, if no bench seat.
Hasn’t this sold before? Sale fall through?
The only place it’s listed is on Ebay motors and I’m just waiting for the number that will trigger the auction. It’s already close.
That bench seat sure does detract from the purpose of being able to take a corner fast..
Ken, as owner of a pretty high end AAR myself, from the pics it appears a very nice #2 car. While a bunch of very minor things need correcting, all the important stuff like the car solenoid, spare with canister and jack are there. While it doesnt have many optons, you have the rallye dash. I would value this at $90K – $100K with the bench seat. GLWTA.
I concur. Something just doesn’t seem right with this auction. Why is 4 speed being listed when it obviously is a torqueflite car? Web search also indicated a sale 10 months ago in NC. Due your due diligence before even sending a deposit.
I agree. It’s only been listed on Ebay Motors so search wherever you like.
Mike Stephens: Why did you not mention that This car was Sold on Barn Finds less than 10 months ago.
Nov 8, 2022 • Classifieds •
BF Classified: 1970 Plymouth AAR Barracuda
SOLD
Asking Price: $130,000
Wasn’t sold 10 months ago.
Hey Ken, why aren’t we auctioning it right here on Barn Finds? We could get you more than eBay.
I wasn’t sure and I need the money to pay my massive medical bills :(
Not mine it didn’t.
I wish! That was a classified.
That’s strange cause only listed this on Ebay Motors
glwts
? glwts
Good Luck With This Sale
Thanks, we’re very close to the number we’d like. BTW I have shots I took of the car at Pinks in LA and on the oval track in LA. I’ve just never learned how to post pictures on this site. If can explain to me how I’ll do it for people who want to see it ‘on the road’
Many are watching your sale.
Now at $79,000
We’re only looking for $85,000 to trigger the sale. I’ve never listed a car for sale before and not really sure any time I’ve sold one. It’s always been an owner to owner deal. Also I’d love to be able to post photos of cars I’ve built but never learned how to do that on this site. I wish someone could explain it to me. THanks T
OK me (the idiot on this site) has a question. Any time in the past that I’ve sold a vehicle, someone has just given me the money and that’s been the deal. I have never learned how to post a photo on this site and I sure would like to know. I know I’m pretty dumb with this but could someone who knows, explain to me; step-by-step how to do it? Thanks you so much
Ken the dummy
There should be an upload box right near were you post your comments.
I just don’t get it. Why would a sexy beast sports car have a bench seat and column shifter? Like I’ve said,a sports car should look and feel like a sports car. Especially cars like this
It’s not a sports car though. It’s a pony/muscle car.
Wise and true statement…
A bench seat you can get laid by your woman more comfortably than buckets 🪣 i would think and you can put your drinks and food on the seat when there were drive in movies 🍿 at the time so better off lol 😝
Ken,
You have a beautiful ride for sale. You’re going to get your$$$$$$ no doubt as I would value this car at $90,000.00 – $110,000.00 I wish you the best my friend!
Just a thought, ten years ago this was a $40,000 car.
Pix are amateur at best for being used to sell a car. People watch too much meecum this car has no business being suggested in the 90 to 110 grand range. its an automatic and on column. stop letting grave yard cars and the auctions rot what little brain you have left.
Favorite car this year :-)
I like your name as I am red pill unplugged.
Several Cudas at the club last night. 440 six pack and a panther pink 340. Believe it or not, those cars not even the nicest. Lots of built rods over generations, some just back from the drags. Older average age group with some cash. Most are very nice, local PD station just a couple blocks away, look the other way for the most part. “No burnouts” the rule, AKA don’t get caught.
Like going back in time – cheers to positive car people.
Will an AAR be able to live in a garage with Ford Falcons?
As long as the Falcons know their place.
I park the Falcons close to the big door so we can drive them out in case the Zombies invade.
I am surprised this AAR has not gone to a new home.
How much faster would a console and floor shifter make it?
It’s not about how fast you go but how cool you look getting there.
My driver’s ed teacher had a Cuda, probably a 1970 with the bench seat and column auto. Also an extra brake pedal on the passenger side. Wasn’t particularly fast, so I’m guessing it was a 318.
T. Mann, Ebay listing says current bid at 50,100 not 79,000.
Crazy Dave, dialog on this car started on September 20th.
Bidding went to $79,000.
It never made “reserve” and has been relisted.
Now it is at $50,100..
Six days left for you to bid.
My uncle had an AAR he traded in his Superbird Roadrunner on. Plum purple, four speed with console and pistol grip shifter. I well recall riding in it as a kid of 13. His hobby was drag racing, and he took off the three deuce setup and replaced with a single four barrel. Said his ETs improved.
The 426 Hemi also ran better with the single carb, stock. I think the 3 duces were just a sales pitch. Setting up the three carbs were also difficult. Instead of operating them on Vac, many added mechanical linkage on the front and rear carbs.
I did the same thing with the 440-6 4spd in my 70 Charger (many years ago) plus new manifold. Felt stronger all the way around and little to no bog or hesitation on the pedal stomp. I don’t think the power difference was significant, just how the engine responded to the way the fuel was delivered? I never took it to the track but did enjoy many stoplight encounters.
Unfortunately that is true. Despite looking and sounding awesome the 6 pack setup wasn’t as fast or consistent as a properly tuned single 850 cfm 4 barrel. Most recently the Engine Masters show hosted by David Frieberger and Steve Dulcich spent one show doing comparative dyno tests of the 6pack against 5 or 6 single 4 barrel intake equipped engines.
Both of you are wrong on 340/6 engines horsepower. Chrysler under-rated them quite a bit, one reason if truth be told the 340 was making as much hp as a 383 low deck big block and that would have killed roadrunner sales. Insurance was another reason. There was a dyno test done on a 340/4 and a 340/6 in recent years. Both engines were built to factory spec. The hp numbers were 320 and 356. Motor Trend did the test.
Good Luck With This Sale
Ffed, I agree with your comment. In stock form they were much the same motor, except the carbonation, which gave the extra HP. The 340/6 motor has a lot more potential, by the off- set valves and adjustable rockers in the head, to increase the valve size and the extra meat on the block at the mains, to be drilled out to be a 4 bolt main block. Same exhaust manifolds. Putting the 6 Pac intake on the 4 bbl motor, I’m sure would be the same HP as the 340/6 one.