A Hidden Hoard of Mopar Legends Unearthed in a Missouri Barn! Prepare to be amazed as a second barn, following a recent discovery of rare 1970 Plymouth Cudas and a 1971 Dodge Challenger, has revealed even more automotive treasures from the golden era of Mopar. Documented by Ryan Brutt of "Auto Archaeology" on YouTube, this latest find is a veritable treasure trove of performance icons, though many are in less-than-perfect condition, having been rescued from junkyards.
The Crown Jewel: A Rare 1970 Plymouth Cuda Convertible
The star of this particular barn is a 1970 Plymouth Cuda convertible. While it might not boast the ultra-rare Hemi engine, the convertible top itself makes it an exceptionally rare find. In 1970, Plymouth produced nearly 49,000 Barracudas, but a mere 2,501 were ordered as convertibles. This particular Cuda is a high-performance model, meaning it's one of only 548 such units ever built. Digging deeper into its specifications, it was equipped with the potent 383-cubic-inch (6.3-liter) big-block V8, a choice made by only 209 buyers. Even more exclusive is its four-speed manual transmission, a combination found in just 68 Cudas. Sadly, this magnificent machine met an unfortunate end, wrecked and parked in 1978. Its owner bravely rescued it from the jaws of a crusher, but after nearly 50 years off the road, its restoration is a daunting prospect. Yet, its sheer rarity makes it far too precious to be left to decay.
The AAR Cuda: A Homologation Special
Next up is another Cuda, not quite as rare as the convertible but highly desirable due to its AAR specifications. The AAR Cuda was a special breed, created to homologate the pony car for the demanding SCCA Trans-Am racing series. It distinguished itself with a unique exterior and a groundbreaking six-barrel version of the 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) small-block V8 engine. Plymouth only sold 2,724 of these AAR Cudas in 1970, and the nameplate was discontinued thereafter. This particular AAR Cuda is an automatic transmission model, one of 1,604 built, and it's finished in the eye-catching Sassy Grass green, a true high-impact color. Unfortunately, it's incomplete and in poor condition.
The Mighty 440 Six-Barrel Cuda
Adding to the excitement, a third Cuda in the barn features the even more sought-after 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) Six-Barrel V8. This powerhouse, rated at a formidable 390 horsepower, is another rare gem. Plymouth sold 1,784 of these powerful Cudas, and this specific car is one of only 919 equipped with the desirable four-speed manual gearbox. Originally painted in DY3 Yellow Gold, its owner notes that it's a relatively plain model, save for the iconic Shaker hood. Like its barn mates, it's incomplete and in rough shape.
A Dodge Challenger Six-Pack Joins the Fray
Rounding out the quartet of Mopar muscle is a 1970 Dodge Challenger that also left the factory with the potent six-barrel 440-cubic-inch V8. Dodge referred to these as Six-Packs, and they produced 2,035 units. Of these, 1,640 were two-door hardtops, with a mere 99 being convertibles and 296 being SE models. While transmission details for this specific Challenger are not provided, it's either one of the 793 automatic cars or one of the 847 four-speed manual models. It boasts a highly desirable color combination: a Plum Crazy exterior paired with a white vinyl top and interior. Our host mentions that this Challenger was sold shortly after his visit to the barn, and there's hope it's destined for a meticulous restoration.
But here's where it gets controversial... While these cars are undeniably rare and historically significant, their current state raises a question: is it better to preserve them as they are, a testament to their past, or to undertake extensive and costly restorations that could alter their original character? And this is the part most people miss... Given the sheer number of barn finds emerging, are we reaching a saturation point where the romanticism of discovery is overshadowed by the daunting reality of preservation and restoration?
What are your thoughts on these incredible barn finds? Do you believe these cars should be restored to their former glory, or is their current, weathered state part of their unique charm? Share your opinions in the comments below!
