Back in 1964, the automotive world witnessed the birth of a true classic, the Plymouth Barracuda. Side by side with the iconic Ford Mustang, it emerged as one of the pioneer pony cars on dealership floors. As the years rolled on, just like its more celebrated rival, the Barracuda transformed into a full-fledged muscle car.
Fast forward to the 1970 model year, and we encounter the third-generation 'Cuda, the ultimate incarnation of this legendary nameplate. Riding on the cutting-edge E-body platform, shared with the first-generation Dodge Challenger, the 1970 'Cuda arrived with a bolder design and a plethora of mighty big-block V8 options.
Under the hood, the options were truly exhilarating, featuring not only the four- and six-barrel versions of the 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB engine but also the mighty 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI.
Fast forward to the 1970 model year, and we encounter the third-generation 'Cuda, the ultimate incarnation of this legendary nameplate. Riding on the cutting-edge E-body platform, shared with the first-generation Dodge Challenger, the 1970 'Cuda arrived with a bolder design and a plethora of mighty big-block V8 options.
Under the hood, the options were truly exhilarating, featuring not only the four- and six-barrel versions of the 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB engine but also the mighty 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI.
Surprisingly, the HEMI engine didn't enjoy much popularity, with only 666 cars sold in 1970 and 114 examples in 1971.
Consequently, the HEMI 'Cuda stands as the rarest and most valuable version of the third-generation Mopar. Enthusiasts around the world often argue that it's the ultimate E-body ever constructed—an assertion that's hard to dispute. Nevertheless, for this Mopar aficionado, the AAR 'Cuda holds its own unique allure.
While the AAR may not boast the sheer power of the 426 HEMI-equipped behemoth, generating "only" 290 horsepower from its 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) six-barrel engine and lacking the iconic Shaker hood, it has plenty of distinct qualities to celebrate.
Firstly, it's a one-year wonder. Much like the HEMI 'Cuda, the AAR had a brief stint in showrooms, being produced for just a few months during the 1970 model year.
Consequently, the HEMI 'Cuda stands as the rarest and most valuable version of the third-generation Mopar. Enthusiasts around the world often argue that it's the ultimate E-body ever constructed—an assertion that's hard to dispute. Nevertheless, for this Mopar aficionado, the AAR 'Cuda holds its own unique allure.
While the AAR may not boast the sheer power of the 426 HEMI-equipped behemoth, generating "only" 290 horsepower from its 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) six-barrel engine and lacking the iconic Shaker hood, it has plenty of distinct qualities to celebrate.
Firstly, it's a one-year wonder. Much like the HEMI 'Cuda, the AAR had a brief stint in showrooms, being produced for just a few months during the 1970 model year.
Its sole purpose was to homologate the Barracuda for SCCA Trans Am racing, and production ceased once Plymouth withdrew from the series.
What sets the AAR apart is its exclusivity among other 'Cudas. Sporting a unique 340 V8 engine with three two-barrel carbs, a distinctive stripe package, and a lightweight fiberglass hood, it's a rare breed.
What sets the AAR apart is its exclusivity among other 'Cudas. Sporting a unique 340 V8 engine with three two-barrel carbs, a distinctive stripe package, and a lightweight fiberglass hood, it's a rare breed.
Furthermore, its specially tuned suspension makes the AAR a nimble and agile contender, ideal for conquering twisty tracks. In fact, it might just leave a HEMI 'Cuda in its rearview mirror when the road gets curvy.
Last but not least, the AAR 'Cuda is a genuine collector's gem. Although it's not as scarce as the HEMI variant, production halted after a mere 2,724 units were built. This represents less than 6% of the total Barracuda production for the 1970 model year.
So, why the sudden admiration for the AAR 'Cuda, you might wonder? Well, for one, this remarkable E-body deserves all the attention it can get. Secondly, the YouTube channel "Dead Dodge Garage" recently got their hands on a Burnt Orange AAR 'Cuda and captured a captivating 10-minute showcase.
Last but not least, the AAR 'Cuda is a genuine collector's gem. Although it's not as scarce as the HEMI variant, production halted after a mere 2,724 units were built. This represents less than 6% of the total Barracuda production for the 1970 model year.
So, why the sudden admiration for the AAR 'Cuda, you might wonder? Well, for one, this remarkable E-body deserves all the attention it can get. Secondly, the YouTube channel "Dead Dodge Garage" recently got their hands on a Burnt Orange AAR 'Cuda and captured a captivating 10-minute showcase.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness this small-block V8 marvel in action; simply hit play and turn up the volume for an unforgettable experience.
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