[Picture of Barracuda]

HISTORY

"Glassback" derivative of the compact Valiant, launched in
early 1964 as a part of the Signet 200 series. It appeared
about two weeks before Ford's Mustang, which was probably a
coincidence, though most observers took it as Plymouth's direct
reply to the Dearborn ponycar, which it probably wasn't. The
Barracuda retained the Valiant's lower body but used a fastback
superstructure with a massive wraparound backlight and stubby
trunklid. It came equipped with the Signet's bucket seat
interior, plus a flip-down rear seatback and security panel
that opened up the trunk area for carrying long items
(the ads liked to show surfboards). Engine offerings were the
same as the Valiant's with the 225 Slant Six standard, or a
new 273 V-8 optional. Horsepower options ran from 180 to 235
in these years, and a "Rallye" suspension and four speed
gearbox were also listed. Facelifted along with the Valiant
for '66, but got its own distinct grille. A special Formula S
package was available beginning in 1965, and turned the Barracuda
into a very capable road machine.
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FOR:

Satisfying V-8 performance
Excellent six-cylinder mileage and durability
"Hatchback" practicality
Affordable
Right at home in today's traffic conditions
The 1965-66 Formula S models are recognized as Milestone cars

AGAINST:

Huge rear window lets interior cook on sunny days
Indifferent assembly quality
Can rust
Obviously Valiant based

SPECIFICATIONS

LENGTH (in) 188.2
WEIGHT (lbs) 2725-2865
WHEELBASE (in) 106.0
PRICE (new) $2325-2556

Source: New Complete Book of Collectable Cars, 1930-1990, by
Richard M. Langworth, and the auto editors of Consumer Guide, 1992

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