Early 1960s American fastbacks are interesting cars and while not everybody finds the shape of a Rambler Marlin appealing, the early Plymouth Barracuda fastback seems to draw more fans. It’s probably true that the proportions on the ‘Cuda work just a bit better (although the rare ‘67 AMC Marlin fixed the styling of the first two years). However you feel about them, the ‘66 Barracuda’s massive piece of rear glass and sculpted lines are considered a classic and here is one that looks to be at least largely complete (from the outside) on CraigsList near Daytona Beach.
The ad says the car has a 318 cubic-inch V8 in it, which would imply that it’s non-original; the ‘66 engine options topped out at the lower-displacement version of the engine, the 273. With the aftermarket hood scoop, that makes a bit of sense, though one has to wonder why not swap a 340 in? Either way, there isn’t much detail about the car from the ad.
What is apparent, however, is that important starting points like the rear glass, tail lights, trim pieces, and trim pieces all look relatively intact and/or saveable. It’s not clear about the condition of the interior or whether it runs, but the asking price of $4,900 isn’t outlandish if it drives under its own power and has some manner of usable seats. So if you had the scratch, how would you build it?
A road going tribute to Hemi Under Glass!
Duplicate the original colour scheme but fit a new-gen Hemi and a more modern transaxle from Porsche or Audi. Fit more road friendly suspension and above all attempt to resist the temptation to put it on its rear wheels at every green light as you wouldn’t want to risk losing your licence so you couldn’t drive it!