Is there such a thing as a car becoming “new” a second time? At least one person seems to think so.
The Pick of the Day is a newly restored 1966 Plymouth Barracuda listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Hampstead, New Hampshire. (Click the link to view the listing)
“Be the first owner of the rebirth of this 1966 Barracuda,” the listing states. “The car is considered to be in show car condition. All aspects of this build were done with precision and quality in mind. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to be the first owner of this rotisserie restoration.”
The Barracuda model was first launched in 1964 on the Chrysler A-body platform as a two-door fastback with a unique wrap-around rear window. Engineering was derived from its compact Valiant sibling, and the car even initially wore scripted Valiant emblems on the rear quarters. Its marketing target at the time was the Ford Mustang which was set to enter the landscape around the same time — marking the start of what later became known as the famous pony car segment. The 1966 model year brought new sheetmetal up front along with revised taillamps.
This show-stopping Barracuda was the recipient of a four-year restoration that was carried out by two shops – one in Maine and another in New Hampshire. The body was stripped, sandblasted, and refinished in its vivid orange with white striping. A lowered stance and a set of Cragar 15-inch wheels provide the groundwork, and a set of BFGoodrich tires put the power to the pavement.
Beyond the aesthetics, the magic of this Barracuda happens under the hood. There were three available factory engines in the first-generation Barracuda including two slant-sixes and a 273cid V8. This Barracuda packs a little more punch under the hood, courtesy of an upgraded 340cid V8 fed by a Holley six-barrel carburetor. The sound must be menacing, since the equipment list also includes ceramic-coated exhaust manifolds, dual outlets, and Flowmaster mufflers.
“The inspiration for this build was to create a period correct car with looks, features, and power that Plymouth should have built to be the first fastback car,” the listing states. “This car runs and drives just like the muscle car it was supposed to be.”
The seller is asking $59,000 or best offer for this refreshed and performance-upgraded Barracuda. Now, if only it came with plastic on the seats and new car smell baked in.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
Gorgeous barracuda… fantastic little compilation video of the restoration. My uncle had a white with black pinstriped 65 with factory line locks. Always enjoyed the look of these and this one is quite stunning.
Outstanding sample of the 1st gen cuda.