Even McLaren loves American muscle automobiles. Case-in-point is that this 1973 Plymouth Barracuda, constructed via a collaboration between eBay and McLaren’s F1 workforce. It appears incredible in Hemi Orange, however truly, that is not Hemi Orange. Since it is a McLaren factor, the basic muscle automobile wears a Papaya physique wrap, matching McLaren’s historic racing shade.
Does that imply there’s additionally a high-revving McLaren twin-turbocharged V-8 below the hood? Not remotely. The construct was largely dealt with by eBay, with enter from the McLaren crew on what upgrades to plug in. As such, the muscle automobile’s unique suspension and brakes are lengthy gone, changed right here with Mopar coilovers and Wilwood discs in any respect 4 corners. That required new brake traces, proportioning valves, and tandem grasp cylinders, amongst different issues. It is secure to imagine this Barracuda stops a lot better than it did within the Nineteen Seventies.
eBay
As for the engine, that seems to be a 340 cubic-inch V-8. We do not know if it is the unique engine—the press launch would not specify—however a 340 was supplied in 1973, making 240 horsepower in inventory trim. We’re advised the engine has full-length headers linked to an upgraded exhaust system. There’s an undisclosed automated transmission sending energy to the rear wheels. Talking of wheels, this Barracuda will get American Racing 15-inch Torq Thrust wheels for a correct muscle automobile look. Thanks, McLaren, for not dropping some 20s on this trip.
Different upgrades embody a wide range of alternative lights entrance and rear, a brand new steering wheel, some racing seats, and new carpeting. Being an eBay collaboration, the whole lot was sourced via the web public sale home, together with the automobile. And it was all completed simply in time for Lando Norris to drive it into Texas for the USA Grand Prix. What, you thought he was going to roll in with a brand new W1?
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eBay
“We’re excited to have been working with eBay to deliver this modified car to life forward of the USA Grand Prix this weekend, and we stay up for sharing the expertise with our followers on the bottom in Austin and internationally as we return to the US,” mentioned McLaren Racing Co-Chief Industrial Officer Matt Dennington.
For those who occur to be in Austin for the large race, you possibly can see the automobile on show at McLaren’s storage.