Lot 241: 1972 Plymouth 'Cuda 340

1969 was the year that Plymouth finally got serious about performance. It boosted the output of its engines and also added power assisted steering. Plymouth also introduced a cosmetic package built around the Formula S option, which they called the 'Cuda. As 1970 rolled around, another redesign was in order for the Barracuda. The performance version, advertised as the 'Cuda and sporting appropriate badges, was built on a new, slightly shorter, wider version of Chrysler's existing B-platform, the E-body. This new generation eliminated the fastback body style, but kept the two door coupe and convertible versions. It also had a Dodge near-twin known as the Challenger; however, no sheet metal interchanged between the two cars, and the Challenger had a slightly longer wheelbase. Both were aggressively and cleanly styled, although they were clearly influenced by the first-generation Chevrolet Camaro. Race car drivers Swede Savage and Dan Gurney drove identical factory-sponsored AAR (All American Racers) 'Cudas in the 1970 Trans-Am Series with great promise, including securing three pole positions. The AAR 'Cudas were equipped with the 5.6 litre, 340 cu in 'six pack', the latter term denoting the fitment of three two-barrel carburettors. This 1972 example is a genuine 'S' code, 340 car from a total run of 7,828. It was the subject of a complete restoration in America in December 2006, during which the engine was overhauled and new pistons, camshafts and followers were fitted, as well as new shock absorbers, exhaust system and windscreen, and the original transmission was rebuilt. The dashboard remains the original item along with the door panels and head liner. The Barracuda is today among the most valuable of muscle cars sought by collectors and this particular car, with matching engine and chassis numbers, is supplied in very good condition with a V5 registration document and a MoT certificate valid until April 2008.