Plymouth Barracuda
ENGINE 4492cc/V8/OHV POWER 235bhp@5200rpm TORQUE 280lb ft@2800rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 118mph 0-60MPH 8.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-22mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed auto MoT June 2018 ODOMETER 31,000 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The car starts on the first turn of the key without any help from the manual choke and it idles well with a lovely V8 burble. The small block V8 isn’t the quickest, but pulls well and sounds fantastic, although there is a slight tapping noise coming from under the bonnet and some minor popping from the exhaust on the overrun. The automatic gearbox works well and moves through the gears smoothly. The steering has a little play but this would be a relatively easy fix. The brakes need a firm foot but provide adequate stopping power, with no juddering or pulling to either side, though the parking brake doesn’t engage. It’s great in a straight line and an excellent cruiser, but fares surprisingly well in the corners too, holding the road with little body roll.
BODYWORK CHECK
Having had a four-year, $40,000 restoration completed in 2010, the Viper Red paintwork is beautiful and all exterior trim is either new or polished. All panels are straight and there is no rust. The correct specification Plymouth Rally wheels are spotless and the BF Goodrich radial tyres – complete with cool raised white lettering – finish off the classic muscle car look, but there is no spare wheel. The underside looks solid and tidy with no evidence of any repaired damage or welding.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The seats have been recovered in Pearl White by New York interior specialist, Legendary Auto Interiors, and the headlining has been replaced. The rest of the interior trim – including the carpets and door cards – is in excellent condition and there are no cracks in the dashboard. The standard instruments work correctly, as do the three additional gauges for engine temperature, battery voltage and oil pressure. The stereo is a modern aftermarket unit, but the original in-dash unit is still fitted to the car.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine and engine bay have been well maintained and the area under the bonnet is extremely tidy. The engine itself benefits from some tasteful modifications, including an Edelbrock inlet manifold, cam covers and air cleaner and there’s no evidence of leaks or worn parts. In addition to a fourbarrel Edelbrock carburettor, the car also comes fitted with some interestingly-named parts, including Hooker performance headers and Purple Horny mufflers, which help to deliver that incredibly evocative V8 exhaust note.
THE CCW VIEW
The epitome of late Sixties American muscle, this beautiful Barracuda seriously delivers and at a competitive price. With a recent full restoration under its belt this appreciating classic is ready to be enjoyed as it is with little extra investment needed. Dale Vinten
PROS Impeccable bodywork V8 soundtrack CONS Steering and brakes slightly below par