Introduced for the 1970 model year, the third-generation Plymouth Barracuda gained full access to Chrysler's range-topping V8 engines. Sure, the 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI and 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB found their way into the previous model, too, but only in limited, special-edition vehicles. In 1970, both were option-list regulars with the 'Cuda trim.
But that didn't last long. With insurance rates for high-performance cars going through the roof and with new emissions regulations underway, automakers began phasing out their high-compression big-block mills. Chrysler was among the first to do so and shelved both the 426 HEMI and 440 Six-Pack in late 1971.
The Barracuda also lost the four-barrel 440, and after two years of providing top-notch performance, it returned in 1972 with only a couple of small-block V8 mills in addition to the entry-level slant-six. Options included a 318-cubic-inch (5.2-liter) unit with 150 horsepower and a 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) V8 with 240 horses.
Even though these ratings were in net horsepower, a system Chrysler had adopted in 1972, it was still a notable drop compared to the 425-horsepower HEMI and 390-horsepower 440 Six-Barrel (gross figures).
As a result, there's a massive gap between the desirability and market values of the 1970-1971 and 1972-1974 Barracudas. While the former are highly sought after and fetch six- or even seven-figure sums, the latter rarely exceed the $50,000 mark in restored condition.
That's good news if you want an affordable Mopar classic and you can live without big-block power, but these rigs are also solid restomod projects. The 1972 example you see here proves that you can keep things classy while opting for enhanced aftermarket oomph.
While most restomods stand out by wearing custom paint and riding on modern wheels, this 1972 'Cuda is as stock as they get on the outside, and it's wrapped in a period-correct B5 Blue. The interior also looks authentic from every angle. But don't let that fool you; this Mopar is more potent than the average post-1971 Barracuda. That's because it rocks a modern 392-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) HEMI.
That's right, I'm talking about the Gen III powerplant that you can also find in production Dodge and Jeep models like the Charger, Challenger, Durango, Grand Cherokee, and Wrangler. Granted, it's not the most potent Mopar crate engine out there, but it provides more oomph than a classic 426 HEMI.
The unit is rated at 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet (644 Nm) of torque before upgrades. The 392 lump mates to a manual gearbox (with a pistol-grip shifter), so this classic also comes with three pedals and row-your-own fun.
But is it an authentic 'Cuda or just a re-dressed Barracuda? Well, the VIN suggests this hardtop actually left the assembly line as a range-topping 'Cuda. It featured a 340 V8 and a four-speed manual before the swap, so it's one of 4,163 units built like this in 1972. It's somewhat rare but not scarce enough to give diehard enthusiasts a heart attack. It's the kind of unassuming sleeper I'd take over a Malaise-era Mopar any day of the week.
Ask Ciprian about cars and he'll reveal an obsession with classics and an annoyance with modern design cues. Read his articles and you'll understand why his ideal SUV is the 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. Full profile
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