1973 Plymouth Barracuda Rocks Numbers-Matching 340 V8, Rare Factory Black Shade 

The story of the Plymouth Barracuda started in relationship with the inexpensive Ford Mustang and its creation of the affordable pony car market – the Chrysler Corporation responded swiftly in 1964 with a Plymouth Valian-based two-door hardtop fastback model using the Chrysler A-body but with a distinctive wraparound rear glass. The second generation arrived in 1967, and although it was heavily redesigned, it was still an offshoot of the Valiant.

But then, in 1970, the times changed, and Chrysler dropped the Valiant DNA altogether. Instead, the third generation became a regular coupe and convertible built on the newly minted E-body platform shared with the recently launched Dodge Challenger. Nobody can mistake one for the other despite their connection, as the 'Cuda had a signature styling compared to its Dodge cousin.

Obviously the most desirable among the three iterations, the new generation was only produced until 1974 with a wide variety of engines – including two slant-six mills and big V8s, one of them being of the Hemi variety. This 1973 Plymouth Barracuda offered by the classic car dealership has an odometer readout of 70,913 miles, which is believed to be the car's actual, non-verified mileage.

The solid body rocks an original-color TX9 black paint – the shade is pristine because it has been repainted, though. It looks stunning, especially with the contrasting yellow-orange coachline and the new 15-inch Magnum 500 alloy wheels featuring massive 235/60 and 255/60 tires. This Mopar is also subtle because it has the original code A6X9 black interior – though it's a little dustier than the exterior.

However, the real treat comes with popping the hood up – inside the engine bay resides a blue-and-orange 'four-barrel' H-code 340-inch V8 engine that has its numbers matching with the body. It's hooked to a 727 three-speed automatic transmission, and while the steering is manual, there are powered front disc brakes at the very least. More so, the dual exhaust has aftermarket manifolds and mufflers to make it throatier.

Aside from the numbers-matching 340 V8 and the rare factory black H-Code paintjob, this Cuda also has bucket seats, a slapstick shifter, and a partial build sheet with the fender tag in place. Of course, the Plymouth Barracudas don't sell cheap – and this one doesn't stray from the rather high asking price, as the dealership wants no less than $59,500 to send it rumbling and bumbling towards your driveway. So, do you think it's worth it or not? After all, for that kind of cash, you can always pony up the bill of a brand-new 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse with 500 ponies under the hood and a starting MSRP of $58,935.