However, despite not achieving the same level of sales as the segment leader, the Barracuda continued to be produced for a full ten years. Towards the end of the decade, it transformed into a fully-fledged muscle car, similar to the Mustang. The third-generation version is perhaps the most iconic and sought-after, thanks to its sporty appearance and the availability of various powerful V8 engines.
While both the 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB and 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI engines were offered in the second-generation Barracuda, they were only available in limited-edition models. It wasn’t until the 1970 model year that these engines became regular options. However, due to the high insurance rates for high-performance cars at the time, these big-block engines were not sold in large numbers. Only 3,804 units of the 440 and 426 ‘Cudas were sold in 1970 and 1971, which accounted for less than 6% of the total production during those years. As a result, these cars are now extremely rare, highly desirable, and quite expensive. The HEMI version, in particular, is worth millions of dollars today.
However, these high-performance ‘Cudas also contributed to the decreased desirability of the 1972-1974 versions. Without the big-block V8 engines, the post-1971 Barracudas do not receive as much attention, and many of them have ended up in junkyards. Nevertheless, this 1972 example proves that any third-generation Barracuda can still shine, regardless of what lies beneath the hood.
This particular hardtop is a notable departure from the typical post-1971 Barracudas that are often seen. Not only is it not found in a scrapyard, but it is also a rust-free example that looks stunning from any angle. Although it may not be in perfect condition, it is a rare find in this state.
Having had only three owners, this Mopar has undergone a few touch-ups over the years but remains largely original. It is a numbers-matching vehicle, with the correct factory codes for the engine, transmission, and rear axle.
Under the hood, this Barracuda originally came with a four-barrel 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) V8 engine. With 240 net horsepower and 290 pound-feet (393 Nm) of torque, it was the most powerful engine option available in 1972. It is important to note that this green hardtop is a Barracuda model and not a top-of-the-line ‘Cuda version.
There were 18,490 examples of this model sold in the US that year, with 12,218 units equipped with the 340 V8 engine. The Barracuda trim narrows it down to 6,354 cars, and the automatic transmission further reduces the number to just 2,039 units like this one. While it may not be extremely rare in terms of production numbers, it is certainly scarce considering the low survival rate of 1972 Barracudas.
In fact, this Mopar could potentially be a one-of-a-kind vehicle, likely due to its unique triple-green color combination. With a green interior and an Amber Sherwood Poly exterior, this Barracuda stands out from the crowd. Overall, it is a stunning example that deserves all the attention it can get. Be sure to check it out in the video below.
According to the Source autoevolution.com