Plymouth Barracuda

vs

Plymouth Laser RS Turbo

USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1990

Plymouth Barracuda (1970)
Plymouth Laser RS Turbo (1990)
Specifications
Barracuda Hemi 'CudaLaser RS Turbo 2.0 Turbo AWD
Horsepower425 hp190 hp
Torque490 lb-ft220 lb-ft
Engine Size6,981 cc1,997 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec6.5 sec
Top Speed137 mph140 mph
¼ Mile13.1 sec14.9 sec
Weight3,600 lbs3,100 lbs
Wheelbase2,743 mm2,510 mm
Length4,699 mm4,460 mm
Units Produced652—
Original MSRP$4,390$18,636
Value (Excellent)$4,000,000$18,000
Collectibility10/105/10
Rarity10/106/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda offers more power, quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility, while the 1990 Plymouth Laser RS Turbo 2.0 Turbo AWD counters with higher top speed, lighter weight, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Plymouth stable, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda and 1990 Plymouth Laser RS Turbo 2.0 Turbo AWD 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 190 hp, a 235-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 Laser RS Turbo relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged with 1,997 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. The Plymouth Laser RS Turbo carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 500 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda commands a significant premium over the 1990 Plymouth Laser RS Turbo 2.0 Turbo AWD, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi 'Cuda rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.