The classic Mopar world is full of custom builds. Occasionally, one emerges that truly stands out from the crowd. This particular 1970 Plymouth Barracuda 440+6 Gran Coupe is much more than a simple restoration project. Its history shows a careful and considered path of modification over time. The deep purple exterior hints at the serious performance underneath the sheet metal. This is a machine that demands both attention and respect on the street. It represents a professional reinterpretation of a true muscle legend.
The Deep Purple Exterior Refinish
The Gran Coupe wears an eye-catching purple finish today. More than $50,000 was invested in the body and paint work alone. The refinishing process was extensive and meticulous in its execution. This included stripping the body completely to the metal. They also polished the original chrome and bright trim pieces. Minor details were handled professionally during the work. This included sealing the factory antenna hole in the fender. The trunk pan and lower rear valance were also replaced.
The car features aggressive black “hockey-stick” graphics. These graphics prominently display the 440 callouts on the flanks. A satin-silver grille provides sharp contrast up front. The Rallye dual-scoop hood is period correct and looks aggressive. Fender-mounted turn-signal monitors are a nice classic touch. The car also features Gran Coupe badging and a sleek rear wing.
Performance-Focused Chassis Upgrades
Underneath the classic skin, significant chassis work was performed. A Firm Feel steering box was installed for better road control. Crucially, welded-in frame-rail connectors strengthen the entire chassis structure. Torque boxes were also added to greatly improve the car’s handling. These modifications make the Gran Coupe feel incredibly solid. Air shocks and stainless-steel brake lines were also recently fitted.
The car rides on staggered Rallye 15″ wheels. These wheels feature stylish chrome trim rings. BFGoodrich Radial T/A white-letter tires complete the aggressive look. They measure 245/60 in front and 275/60 in the rear. Furthermore, the rear wheels were professionally widened to 10″. Power-assisted front disc brakes handle most of the stopping duties.
Custom Interior and Comfort Amenities
The cabin carries the exterior’s performance theme inside. The front bucket seats feature custom black and purple vinyl covers. A black vinyl rear bench seat is also present in the car. The Gran Coupe provides modern comfort with a Vintage Air climate control system. Center and overhead consoles enhance the classic driving experience. A rebuilt Slap Stik shifter controls the powerful transmission.
The interior includes black carpeting and original woodgrain trim. Three-point front seat belts offer enhanced safety. The luxury-focused Gran Coupe trim level is apparent today. It includes a “roof-mounted consolette” above the driver. This consolette features warning lights for various systems. A Bluetooth-capable Custom Autosound AM/FM radio is installed, however it works intermittently.
Gauges and Driver Information
Rallye-style instrumentation keeps the driver completely informed. The gauge cluster features a 150-mph speedometer. There is also an 8k-rpm tachometer included for the V8 engine. Gauges monitor fuel level and coolant temperature accurately. Additionally, oil pressure and alternator status are displayed. The speedometer and odometer were recently replaced with new units.
AutoMeter gauges were also mounted beneath the dashboard. These auxiliary units monitor key engine parameters. Specifically, they track oil pressure, water temperature, and voltage data. True vehicle mileage remains unknown due to the gauge swap history. This reflects a commitment to monitoring performance data constantly.
The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Drivetrain Specs
The soul of this Barracuda is the muscular 440ci V8. The engine was reportedly manufactured back in 1976. It was professionally installed in the car during 2010. Consequently, the performance upgrades are extensive and purposeful in nature. The V8 is crowned with a powerful trio of Holley two-barrel carburetors. These “Six-Pack” carburetors were recently overhauled and professionally tuned by a specialist.
Internal performance parts include Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads. An aftermarket camshaft and roller rocker arms were added later. Furthermore, the engine utilizes a double-roller timing chain setup. Ignition is handled by a reliable electronic system. An Edelbrock intake manifold is also professionally fitted. An aluminum radiator provides superior engine cooling capability.
The 440 V8 funnels its power through a robust TorqueFlite 727 automatic transmission. This reliable three-speed unit was recently rebuilt professionally. It was upgraded with a high-stall torque converter for better launch. The power then hits an 8¾” Sure-Grip rear end. This rear end features aggressive 3.91:1 ring-and-pinion gears.
TTi exhaust headers manage the initial flow from the engine. These headers feed into a dual exhaust system for sound. Finally, Pypes mufflers provide the essential classic muscle car sound. The exhaust exits through rectangular dual outlets. This entire setup creates a powerful and highly cohesive drivetrain package.
Summary of the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda
This stunningly modified 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Gran Coupe is a very serious machine. It blends classic Mopar style with modern performance engineering effectively. The striking purple paint and custom interior make a bold statement. The carefully built 440+6 V8 ensures a truly thrilling driving experience every time. From the welded chassis stiffening to the upgraded cooling system, no detail was overlooked here. This vehicle represents a well-documented and comprehensive restomod build.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
