Plymouth Barracuda

vs

Plymouth AAR 'Cuda

USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1970

Plymouth Barracuda (1970)
Plymouth AAR 'Cuda (1970)
Specifications
Barracuda Hemi 'CudaAAR 'Cuda 340 Six Pack
Horsepower425 hp290 hp
Torque490 lb-ft340 lb-ft
Engine Size6,981 cc5,572 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec5.8 sec
Top Speed137 mph125 mph
¼ Mile13.1 sec14.0 sec
Weight3,600 lbs3,400 lbs
Wheelbase2,743 mm2,743 mm
Length4,699 mm4,871 mm
Units Produced6522,724
Original MSRP$4,390$3,563
Value (Excellent)$4,000,000$180,000
Collectibility10/109/10
Rarity10/109/10
The Verdict

The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1970 Plymouth AAR 'Cuda 340 Six Pack brings lighter weight, better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Plymouth heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.

Overview

Within the Plymouth stable, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda and 1970 Plymouth AAR 'Cuda 340 Six Pack represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Plymouth badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda holds a clear advantage in raw power with 425 hp compared to 290 hp, a 135-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Plymouth Barracuda uses a V8 OHV (Hemi) displacing 6,981 cc, while the Plymouth AAR 'Cuda relies on a V8 OHV (340 Six Pack) with 5,572 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 5.8 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 652 units built, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda is considerably scarcer than the Plymouth AAR 'Cuda's 2,724 examples. On the collector market, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda commands a significant premium over the 1970 Plymouth AAR 'Cuda 340 Six Pack, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.