Plymouth Barracuda problems

Common Plymouth Barracuda problems

The Plymouth Barracuda, a classic American muscle car, has been praised for its power and style, but it has also been criticized for several common problems.

One of the most frequently reported issues is related to the convertible top. In a review of a 1971 Plymouth Barracuda 'Cuda 340, the owner mentioned that the convertible top lines and fittings constantly broke and leaked. He replaced them with copper lines, but the problem persisted. This issue seems to be specific to convertible models, as it was not mentioned in reviews of hardtop versions.

Another common problem is related to the front-end suspension. In the same review, the owner noted that the front end bushings and ball joints were shot by 70,000 miles, which is a relatively short lifespan for these components. This issue was also mentioned in a discussion on the ForABodiesOnly forum, where a member pointed out that the bottom of both front fenders and under the hood on top of the fenders are common areas of rust on 67-68 Barracudas.

The interior of the Barracuda has also been criticized for feeling loose and cheaply made. In the same review, the owner mentioned that the doors sagged, window cranks were stiff and noisy, windows rattled and leaked, and the frame/unibody flexed a lot over typical city road bumps and dips. The interior also felt loose and like it was going to crack and fall apart.

The body and chassis of the Barracuda have also been criticized for being flexy, rattly, and having poor ride quality. In the same review, the owner mentioned that the rear valence panel exhausts direct the spent gas up and toward the middle of the rear, so exhaust fumes and stink somehow get sucked into the car, even with the top up. He also mentioned that the car was inferior to most other muscle cars of the day in terms of chassis rigidity and ride quality.

Finally, the engine of the Barracuda has been criticized for being prone to rust and corrosion. In a review of a 1967 Plymouth Barracuda, the owner mentioned that the car required a new top and had some rust in several places, including on the rear quarters. He also mentioned that the engine under the hood was a six-cylinder, which was not the preferred option for many buyers.

In summary, the Plymouth Barracuda has been criticized for several common problems, including issues with the convertible top, front-end suspension, interior, body and chassis, and engine. These issues are not necessarily deal-breakers, but they are important factors to consider when buying or restoring a Barracuda.

What year is the most sought after Barracuda?

The 1971 Hemi 'Cuda convertible is now considered one of the most valuable collectible muscle cars. Only thirteen were built, seven of which were sold domestically.

Why are cudas so expensive?

Factors outside of the legendary elephant 426 Hemi that typically drive up the price of classic Mopar E-bodies like 'Cudas and Challengers are rare body styles, like convertibles; eye-catching Hi Impact colours like Plum Crazy purple or Sublime green; or long options list of way-cool accessories.

What is the difference between a Plymouth Cuda and Barracuda?

Barracuda and 'Cuda were the basic same car. It was a matter of options that made a car a Cuda rather than a Barracuda. There was even a Cuda model in 1969 (contrary to popular belief) 1971 was the last year for the big blocks. There were no Hemis or 440's or even 383's after 1971.

How much is a Plymouth Barracuda worth?

Q: What was the lowest recorded sale price for a Plymouth Barracuda? A: The lowest recorded sale price was $3,995 for a 1966 Plymouth Barracuda on Jan 18 2023. Q: What is the average sale price of a Plymouth Barracuda? A: The average price of a Plymouth Barracuda is $112,861.