Unfortunately, we are here to discuss the third generation of the car, also known as the E-Body Barracuda, which was produced between 1970 and 1974. When you spotted this vehicle on the road, you immediately knew it was not just another car, but rather a symbol of power and performance. It truly brought joy to the act of driving.
Furthermore, its appearance was remarkable, a feast for the eyes. Essentially, it was a shorter and more compact version of the E-Body Challenger, and it swiftly shed its predecessor’s reputation as an “economy car.” It discarded that label effortlessly.
As expected, performance was never a question, and aside from the Hemi units, the ‘Cuda (high-performance variations were marketed as such) also offered a couple of impressive 440 ci options. These included a Four-Barrel Super Commando with 375 horsepower and a Six Barrel with triple 2-barrel carburetors and 390 horsepower. Today, we will focus on the latter.
More specifically, let’s delve into this 1971 ‘Cuda, which recently sold for $111,000. This particular model featured a variety of modifications that enhanced both its visual appeal and performance. Originally painted in Curious Yellow, it complemented the black vinyl roof, black billboard stripes, and the Shaker hood with pins. Additional dark accents included the rear wing and rear window louvers.
The wheels on this ‘Cuda are 15 inches in diameter and equipped with Cooper Cobra Radial G/T tires. The front tires measure 215/70, while the rear tires measure 235/70.
Inside the car, you’ll find black front bucket seats, a matching dashboard, door panels, and rear bench. The ‘Cuda branding is also present on the floor mats. Woodgrain accents can be found on the dash and center console, and the car is equipped with a Custom Autosound stereo. The wood-rimmed steering wheel complements the Rallye instrumentation.
Now, let’s move on to the engine, as I know that’s what you’re most interested in. Under the hood, you’ll find a replacement 440 ci V8 engine. It has been bored over by .010″, and features replacement pistons, valves, and rods. The ‘906’ heads and cast-iron manifold complete the setup. Assuming it still produces around 390 horsepower, all that power is transferred to the rear wheels through a replacement TorqueFlite three-speed automatic gearbox, paired with an SMR 2800-rpm-stall torque converter.
Last but not least, this ‘Cuda is equipped with a TTi dual exhaust system, featuring 2.5″ mandrel-bent tubing and Dynomax mufflers. The sound it produces is truly impressive.
The only question that remains is whether this car is truly worth its $111,000 price tag. Well, clearly it is worth that much to the person who purchased it. Personally, I’m not overly enthusiastic about its specifications, but I’m not disappointed either. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate it an 8 in terms of third-gen ‘Cudas.
According to the Source autoevolution.com