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As
1970 rolled around, another redesign was in order for the Barracuda.
The performance version was badged and advertised as the 'Cuda.
This year's new design looked quite a bit different from the
previous models. One of the reasons was that it was now built
on a new, slightly shorter, wider, and sportier version of Chrysler's
existing B platform, the E-body. This new generation eliminated
the fastback, but kept the two-door coupe and convertible versions.
It also had a Dodge near-twin known as the Challenger; however,
not one body panel interchanged between the two cars and the
Challenger had a slightly longer wheelbase. Both were aggressively
and cleanly styled, although they were clearly influenced by
the first-generation Chevrolet Camaro. After the switch to the
E platform, which featured a larger engine bay than the previous
A-body, Chrysler's famous 426 in³ (7.0 L) Hemi would now
be available from the factory in the Barracuda. The HemiCuda
had about a factory rating of 6 MPG, and was sold without warranty.
Race
car drivers Swede Savage and Dan Gurney drove identical factory-sponsored
Barracudas in the 1970 Trans-Am Series, although with no success.
With the 440-6 and 426 Hemi, the performance from these production
Barracudas ended up being legendary. The 1/4 mile times for
these were 13.7 s @ 103 mph and 13.4 s @ 108 mph - both among
the fastest times of the day. These engines were very easy to
slightly modify and drop into the 12s, but either way - stock
or modified - one could virtually have a 5-passenger race car.
Barracudas also came with decal sets, hood modifications, and
some unusual colors ("Go Mango", "Plum Crazy",
and "Panther Pink").
The
Barracuda was changed slightly for 1971, with a new grille and
taillights. This would be the only year that the Barracuda would
have four headlights, and also the only year of the optional
fender "gills". The 1971 Barracuda engine options
would remain the same as that of the 1970 model, except for
the fact that a 4-barrel carbureted 440 engine was not available;
all 440-powered Barracudas had a six-barrel carburetor setup
instead. The 426 Hemi option would remain, and the Hemi-powered
1971 Barracuda convertible is now considered one of the rarest
and most desirable collectible automobiles.
In
1970 and 1971, two options were available that are now highly
sought-after by collectors. They are the shaker hood and the
Spicer Dana 60 rearend. The shaker hood was available on 340ci
Six-Pack, 383ci, 440ci and Six-Pack, and 426ci Hemi-equipped
'Cudas. The heavy Dana 60, with a 9 3/4 inch ring gear and considered
nearly indestructible, was standard on manual transmission 440
Six-Pack and 426 Hemi equipped 'Cudas, and was optional on those
with the automatic transmission.
After
another grille and taillight redesign in 1972, the Barracuda
would keep its overall look the same through 1974, with dual
headlights and four circular taillights. But like other pony
cars of the time, these years showed a major decrease in the
Barracuda's power due to stricter emission laws. The largest
available engine in 1972 was the 340 4bbl; a 360 was available
in 1974. New safety regulations would also force the vehicle
to have large front and rear bumper guards in 1973 and 1974.
The Barracuda hung on through 1974, after which it was discontinued
in the midst of the 1973 oil crisis. Production ended ten years
(to the day) after it had begun. Although today they are sought-after
collector cars, the third generation was a marketplace failure
and never successfully competed with rival offerings from Ford
and General Motors. The rarity of specific models and combinations
today is primarily the result of low original-buyer interest
and production. |
