An idea automotive from the peak of the muscle automotive period has reappeared after many years in hiding, and it is headed to public sale.
The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Speedy Transit is considered one of 4 present vehicles constructed for the Speedy Transit System Caravan, which toured auto reveals and automotive dealerships in 1970 and 1971 selling Plymouth’s muscle vehicles. Saved for over 50 years, it is scheduled to be auctioned off by Mecum in Indianapolis in Might.
Launched as a part of Plymouth’s interval Speedy Transit System advert marketing campaign, the Speedy Transit System Caravan included a Duster, Street Runner, drag-racing star Don Prudhomme’s Plymouth humorous automotive, and this Barracuda, which was personalized for the tour.
A paint scheme designed by Scorching Wheels artist Harry Bradley is laid over bodywork modified by Chuck Miller, a Detroit-based customized automotive builder who received the distinguished Rider Award in 1968, and had constructed a life-size model of the then-famous Crimson Baron scorching rod mannequin package earlier than being introduced in to customise the Plymouth.
Working in metal, Miller made a brand new nostril from 4 an identical angled items welded right into a single insert, per the public sale itemizing, in addition to a rolled entrance pan with cut up spoilers and low-mounted driving lights. Aspect pipes, metal mud flaps, a faux parachute, customized taillights, and wheelie bars have been additionally added, together with wider tires and Cragar wheels.
An early-build instance, the Barracuda has a 440-cubic inch V-8 believed to be the engine it left the manufacturing facility with. This extra highly effective engine, which inhales by means of a Shaker hood scoop, would have rated ‘Cuda nomenclature again within the day. Plymouth started utilizing the ‘Cuda title to indicate efficiency variations of the Barracuda when this era was launched in 1969.
Following the conclusion of its promotional duties, the personalized ‘Cuda fell off the radar. In keeping with YouTube channel Auto Archaeology, the automotive went into storage in 1976, and remained hidden till earlier this 12 months. It is in good situation for such a relic, displaying simply 967 miles on the odometer and nonetheless carrying its unique paint, in keeping with the public sale itemizing.
Barracudas are among the most fascinating muscle vehicles at the moment. One other 1970 instance claimed to be the primary Hemi Barracuda was supplied on the market earlier this 12 months with a $2.2 million asking worth. So this well-known one-off may convey critical cash when it crosses the public sale block.
