The Plymouth Barracuda is undoubtedly one of the best-looking cars to come out of Detroit, during the “muscle car” era. The E-body Mopar especially looked breathtaking in its convertible form, which was only available during the 1970 and 1971 model years. The Barracuda E-body itself only lasted for five years on the market, yet one of the best-known nameplates from the iconic former Plymouth brand.
One great example of these cars will be crossing the Mecum Glendale auction block this month.
This 1971 Plymouth Cuda convertible, is a well-documented and maintained example of the iconic muscle car. Sold brand new from West Side Motors in Newark, New Jersey, the Cuda still has its original sheet metal and number-matching engine. Documented with its original broadcast sheet and window sticker, the car is 1 of just 87 Cuda convertibles powered by the 6.3-liter (383 cubic-inch) Super Commando big-block V8.
The 383 features a 4-barrel carburetor and made 300 horsepower and 410 ft.-lb. of torque when it left the factory. The 383 is mated to a 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission and 8.75-inch differential.
While the original base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of a 1971 Plymouth Barracuda convertible was just over $3,400, this particular car was pretty well-optioned. This example features power steering, power brakes with front discs, and even factory air conditioning.
Painted in the beautiful Rallye Red (E5) exterior color, the Cuda convertible features a black power convertible top and eye-popping black “383” billboard stripes. Also enhancing the exterior appeal of the car is a rear-deck “Go Wing”, dual body-color exterior mirrors, and the standard Cuda touches like hood pins, sport hood, 1971 gill front fenders, and rocker moldings. There is also a set of Magnum 500 wheels and white-lettered Goodyear F70-14 Polyglas tires.
Inside, the Cuda features an all-black interior with bucket seats and a center console with a T-handle shifter. Other interior highlights include an AM/FM radio with a cassette player, a three-spoke steering wheel, and tinted glass. The combination of red and black are absolutely stunning to this day.
Mecum estimates that the car will go for $185,000 to $195,000 when the auction ends. The Cuda will cross the auction block on Saturday, March 19th. To see more pictures or to place a bid, you can check out the car’s dedicated page on the Mecum website.
1971 Plymouth Cuda Convertible Image Gallery:
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