We have seen a recent influx of No Reserve classics at Barn Finds, and this 1974 Plymouth ‘Cuda continues that trend. Adding to its appeal are the one-year-only paint shade and its numbers-matching drivetrain. Its needs are minor, and wouldn’t prevent the new owner from experiencing immediate motoring pleasure. The Plymouth is listed here on eBay in New Baltimore, Michigan. Twenty-four bids have pushed the price to $29,100, and with 141 people watching the auction, the price should climb before the hammer falls. Whatever the final figure, this ‘Cuda is only days away from finding a new home.

Plymouth introduced its Third Generation Barracuda range in 1970, and I still rate Chrysler’s E-Body offerings from this era as some of the best-looking cars to roll off an American production line. They look inherently muscular and purposeful, even in their most basic form. The first owner ordered this ‘Cuda in 1974, choosing to cloak the exterior in Burnished Red. This shade was previously offered in 1971 but was a one-year-only color for the 1974 Barracuda range. The seller confirms that this beauty underwent a professional repaint, but not when it occurred. It isn’t a trailer queen, with the seller admitting that an up-close inspection will reveal minor chips. However, the exterior shines like a new penny, and the panels are as straight as an arrow. There is no evidence of rust anywhere, with the car’s steel claimed to be completely original. The White stripes provide a striking contrast, perfectly complimenting the interior trim. Some trim pieces are new, the rest look excellent, and the glass is crystal clear.

By 1974, American production cars were suffering at the hands of tightening emission regulations. However, it was still possible to buy vehicles offering respectable performance. This ‘Cuda is an example of that thinking. Its numbers-matching 360ci V8 sends 245hp and 320 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission. Power-assisted steering and brakes ensure an effortless driving experience. This beauty should storm the ¼-mile in 15.5 seconds, and while that figure appears modest by modern standards, it was significantly faster than the ET delivered by an auto-equipped Camaro Z28. Potential buyers should consider this ‘Cuda a turnkey proposition. The seller doesn’t identify any mechanical maladies or shortcomings, raising the possibility that the winning bidder could fly in and build a relationship with their new toy as they drive it home.

The interior brings us to the few shortcomings of this ‘Cuda. There is a hole in the dash where the radio should be, and the seller admits they have done nothing to address it. They feel that the honor should fall to the winning bidder, leaving them to choose between locating a factory unit or an aftermarket upgrade. The seller indicates that there are a couple of small pad cracks, and most people would probably elect to spend $660 on a replacement to achieve perfection. Otherwise, it appears to need very little. The White vinyl trim has avoided stains and yellowing, and the Black carpet is spotless. There are no issues with the dash and no functional shortcomings beyond the inoperative blower motor.  This classic spent its life in a warm location, making the first owner’s decision to opt for air conditioning unsurprising. If the buyer addresses those issues, this baby will be good to go.

Some cars blend into the background, while others possess the “wow” factor. This 1974 Plymouth ‘Cuda falls into the second category and is a classic that needs little. If the winning bidder addresses its interior shortcomings, that could be the final piece of the puzzle that ensures it will garner nothing but positive comments. I would typically quote a potential sale price at this point, but I feel the time is right for you to have your say. So, what do you think someone will be prepared to pay to take this Plymouth home?