Car: Plymouth “R-Code” 426 Hemi ‘Cuda Coupe
Year: 1970
What makes it special: Plymouth’s Barracuda model began very humble, and was a sportier version of their Valiant model. In 1970, Plymouth stepped up its game became one of the most attractive and desirable muscle cars ever built. The ’70 model had the new “E-Body” platform which was shorter and wider to further distance itself from the economy-minded, family styled Valiant. For engines, the ’70 Barracuda, Barracuda Gran Coupe and ‘Cuda line had six and eight-cylinder versions ranging from a new 198 cu in slant-six, to the mighty 426 Hemi.
What made it famous: The famed 426 2 4-barrel powerplant took on a very mean, nasty look when seen peering through the famed “Shaker Hood.” Hemi-equipped ‘Cudas received upgraded suspension and structural reinforcements to help transfer its power to the pavement. Another cool feature of Mopar muscle of this era were the “High-Impact” colors you could check off the order sheet, (like the Sublime you see pictured.) They also sported the best go-faster stripes like the “Hockey-Stick” on its hind quarter, which boasted the 426 Hemi in the stick’s “blade.”
Why I would want one: I can’t think of ANY car guy of gal who would ever say no to wanting a 1970 426 Hemi ‘Cuda, in either coupe or convertible version.
Fun fact: Plymouth advertised these car as part of their ‘Rapid Transit System” for 1970.
