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Highlights:
- Powered by original 318ci V8 and automatic transmission
- Factory code correct LL1- Surf Turquoise
- Optioned with Power steering, power convertible top, bucket seats & console
- Recently serviced and ready to enjoy
- Represents 1 of only 2,044 Barracuda V8 Convertibles made in 1968
Description:
A very special Barracuda Convertible presenting one of only 2,044 built in 1968 with a V8 engine! This example comes equipped with power steering, power folding top, bucket seats with console, 318ci V8, automatic transmission, and more! Cosmetically restored to include new paint and interior upholstery, and in excellent mechanical condition! A great cruiser, and one not easily found on the market today!
The new Pony car era was in full swing in 1964 with the much anticipated Ford Mustang coming to the market with heavy advertising. With no secret to all manufacturers that their new sport-compact package was receiving huge praise, and potential for massive sales, many went to the drawing board for a quick solution to provide easy competition to showroom buyers. At Plymouth, the compact Valiant was the closest sport model with potential to lure young buyers. Much like Ford used the Falcon platform, the Plymouth Valiant chassis made way to the sporty Barracuda, which included a very stylish fastback with two 6 cylinders engine options, and one 273ci V8 making 180 horsepower. The new Barracuda sold well, but Plymouth knew additional power options and body styles would be needed to compete in a now very competitive sport compact market. A second generation Barracuda debuted in 1967 with a new hardtop and convertible added to the lineup. Larger engines, more available options, and distinctive body styles helped better identify the popular pony car. The 273ci was dropped in 1968 with the introduction of the 318ci V8 and larger displacement engines. These second generation examples carried the success of the Barracuda through 1969 cementing its future in history as one of Plymouth's most popular muscle cars sought by collectors today!
We are very excited to offer this 1968 Plymouth Barracuda Convertible finished in correct code LL1- Surf Turquoise over reupholstered White bucket seat interior (originally H6X- Black), with correct Y2- White convertible soft top. Powered by its original 318ci-2bbl V8 engine and console-shifted automatic transmission, this special-ordered Barracuda features bucket seats, fender-mounted turn signals, solid state AM radio, day/night rearview mirror, power folding top, power steering, dual outside mirrors, interior courtesy lights with glove box & trunk lamps. Additional improvements added special front & rear spoilers, body side stripe, 14”/15” staggered rallye wheels, updated Panasonic AM/FM/CD player with Pioneer speakers, and carpeted floor mats.
This splendid example was built at the Hamtramck, Michigan plant and represents one of only 2,044 Barracuda V8 convertibles produced in 1968 making them quite rare to find on the market today! Showcasing a modest, frame up restoration focused on the cosmetics, it received a repaint in base coat/clear coat fashion, along with new interior upholstery and door panels. The balance of the car remains very original. The engine has been brilliantly maintained by past owners and continues to run and drive like showroom new! It starts with the flick of the key, doesn't smoke, idles perfectly, and provides instant power through a smooth shifting transmission! It has been part of the Evergreen Historic Automobile collection since June 2008, and upon arrival to the St. Louis Car Museum received a comprehensive inspection to ensure it would be immediately ready to enjoy for the next lucky owner. This included a full rebuild of the original carburetor, new air filter, new spark plugs, new engine oil & filter, new rear leaf springs bushings with mounts, new battery, and replacement of the transmission mount.
It is excellent road going specimen with all features and options in full working order, with the original radio being bypassed for the benefit of the more modern unit mounted underneath the dash as to not harm the dash board of its factory appearance. To enhance the overall stance, the front wheels/tires measure 215/60R14 with the rears at 235/60R15. The trunk retains the original mat, spare tire cover, spare, and all tire changing tools. We feel this is a wonderful opportunity to enter the collector car scene with a special Plymouth not often scene at car shows, and a unique way to turn the heads of other Mopar collectors! Inspections are certainly welcome and we encourage interested parties to call with questions or offers! Act quickly Barracuda fans, as this one will not likely last long! Thanks for looking!
