Plymouth’s decision to base its Third Generation Barracuda on the new E-Body platform was wise because it gave the new model a more muscular and purposeful appearance than its predecessors. It is also a look that has aged well, helping to explain why these classics remain popular today. This 1970 Barracuda Gran Coupe is an unmolested survivor that wears its original paint. Its rust issues are minor, which could allow the new owner to enjoy this beauty during the remaining summer months before tackling them as the weather turns cool again. It needs a new home, so the seller has listed it for sale here on eBay in Ontario, New York. Bidding has raced beyond the reserve to sit at $23,000.
This Barracuda makes a positive first impression, and there’s plenty to appreciate with this classic. The seller states that most of its Code F4 Lime Green Metallic paint is original, with the car only receiving some minor touch-ups throughout its life. It shines well for its age, and although the photo quality isn’t great, there are only a few flaws and faults. The White vinyl top looks okay, although confirming the state of the paint and top would require an in-person inspection. The panels are straight, and the only visible external rust is a small spot in one lower corner of the driver’s door. The underside shots reveal floors and frame rails that are rock-solid, with nothing beyond some surface corrosion. The news isn’t quite as positive with the trunk pan. Moisture found its way under the trunk mat, allowing holes to develop in the pan. Patching may be a viable option, but it will take an inspection to confirm that. The trim and Rally wheels are in excellent condition for a survivor-grade car, and the glass looks crystal clear.
Buyers faced a wide selection of engines to power their new 1970 Barracuda, with this car’s original owner selecting the venerable 318ci V8. They also opted for a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power steering. With 230hp at the driver’s disposal, it allowed the Gran Coupe to cover the ¼ mile in 16.5 seconds. Interestingly, that figure reveals how efficient the TorqueFlite is compared to the automatic transmission options offered by other manufacturers during that era. Equipped with the four-speed manual, this Plymouth would cover the same journey in 16.3 seconds, demonstrating that an automatic choice didn’t significantly compromise vehicle performance. The seller indicates that this beast is numbers-matching and has recently emerged from more than twenty years in storage. It runs and drives well, and they have used the car locally. The new owner would probably elect to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before undertaking long journeys, but this YouTube video reveals that the V8 runs perfectly.
The Barracuda’s interior is trimmed in Green vinyl, featuring the comfort of bucket seats, a roof console, and air conditioning. The factory radio has made way for an aftermarket radio cassette, but I can’t spot any further additions. The upholstered surfaces and carpet have seen better days, but the seller provides a starting point for the buyer wishing to whip the interior into shape. Included are a complete set of Legendary seat covers, a carpet set, and a headliner. With those items installed and the remaining trim treated to a deep clean, the interior should present pretty nicely.
Considering what this 1970 Barracuda Gran Coupe offers potential buyers, it is easy to understand why the bidding has been intense. Its originality will appeal to purists, while the straightforward nature of its rust issues would make it a prime candidate for a Mopar enthusiast seeking a first or DIY project build. The included new interior trim will give the new owner a great start in returning it to its former glory. If you were to buy this classic, would you treat it to a total restoration? Or would the prospect of installing the upholstery, fixing the rust, and leaving it largely untouched as a genuine survivor be impossible to resist?
This is what they used to call a secretary sports car. Along with the Mustang Grande, Camaro Type-LT, and Firebird Espirit.
The Gran Coupe had standard leather upholstery.
To my eye, the doors appear to have a different finish than the rest of the body. So, may not qualify purely as a survivor. Engine compartment looks original down to electronic ignition module, but for cheesy red heater hose. Bidders appear excited though. Up to $26K already.
If you are putting on new seat covers I would also replace the foams at the same time. Also needs new headliner and rear seat repairs. Given the rust through. I’d really like at where that vinyl roof ends at the trunk too. A significant amount of work to be done, and that’s not considering likely drive train maintenance, fuel system, brake system, etc.
No electronic ignition was available until 1972, and that was std on 340 cars only. 1973 was the first year for electronic ignition on all Mopars
Actually my 72 Plymouth Scamp 318 came with electronic ignition. My sister had a 72 Duster that still had points so it must have been an option that year.
Clean i would pull the motor drop in a 383 or 440.and cruise it.save original in garage.
Great place to start! But I’m really curious what’s lurking under the vinyl top. Especially at the bottom at the back. Cool color combo though! Looks like it would make a great driver.
While in high school in 1970, my auto shop teacher bought a brand new one the same color with a 440. If you were walking over the annex separating the history building from the science building, and he happened to be driving underneath, your feet would tingle from the vibration. By the time I could afford to buy a new vehicle, high performance was a thing of the past.
Well besides the trunk floor, and peaking under that vinyl top, I’d forgo the green interior and get it done in white, then I’d pull the 318, store it, and put a nice 340 or 383 in it, with the a/c it’s gonna be nice,
Looks like today’s Challenger basically cloned these vintage Barracuda’s.
These should have sold much better….harking to the theory, most/many
have bad taste in cars, clothes & women. lol