History and Evolution of the Classic Plymouth Barracuda

The Plymouth Barracuda, an iconic American muscle car, was originally produced from 1964 to 1974. Recently, Dodge announced plans to launch a new version of the Barracuda in the first half of 2018. Over the years, the Barracuda has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows, cementing its status in pop culture. Its distinctive design and powerful engines made it a favorite among car enthusiasts. From its early days as a compact muscle car to its modern reinterpretation, the Barracuda remains a legendary symbol of American performance cars.

First Generation (1964-1966)
Debuting in 1964, the Plymouth Barracuda is considered one of the earliest muscle cars still in operation. It featured a slant 6-cylinder engine with 170 cubic inches, generating 145 hp, and a 226-cubic-inch option producing 170 hp. Its innovative design included the large bubble back window, setting it apart in the 1960s.

The initial models established the Barracuda as a sporty compact muscle car with notable engine choices. Its bold styling and performance made it a standout, laying the groundwork for future generations.

Second Generation (1967-1970)
Introduced in 1967, this version offered convertible, notchback, and fastback options. It featured a refreshed design and new powertrains, appealing to a broader audience. The 1968 model year was particularly influential, revolutionizing American muscle cars with aggressive styling and impressive performance.

Many late 60s and early 70s Barracudas were modified for drag racing, with added hood vents to manage engine heat. Dodge's Hemi engines and upgrades, including the replacement of the 273 V8 with a 318, boosted their performance significantly.

The third era, from 1970 to 1974, marked the introduction of the E-body chassis, with both hardtop and convertible styles. The 340-cubic-inch engine was its most popular power source, setting benchmarks for muscle car performance during this period. Later models saw the engine upgrade to 360 cubic inches. The upcoming Dodge Barracuda is rumored to feature a 2.4-liter turbocharged V6 producing 270–330 hp, with a high-performance twin-turbo 3.0 V6 expected to deliver around 400 hp.