1968 Plymouth Barracuda

1968 Plymouth Barracuda Formula S Fastback Tribute At a time when the country was embattled with major issues and turmoil, 1968 turned out to be an outstanding year in the automotive world with several destined to be legends being born from U.S. factories. This is when manufacturers went all out with the production of muscle cars and pony cars with ongoing efforts to push the limits. Among these giants, there were the more pedestrian versions that served more as commuter and family cars, which retained design cues from the memorable monsters.  For consignment, a 1968 Plymouth Barracuda Formula S fastback tribute showing 81,643 miles, but the true miles are unknown. Born with a 318, but now housing a 340ci V8, the engine and other upgrades pay homage to the legendary Mopar performance version of the Barracuda, the Formula S.  Exterior Bathed in newer two stage Sable White, our fastback is also adorned with contrasting dark red rocker stripes. Though the face of the Barracuda was changed over the years, the second generation still presents a distinctive front with wide set headlights housed in individual grille sections surrounded by metal and plastic bezels. The hood inserts are for appearance only and don't vent to the engine and using such ornamental items was common on cars of the era while the hood mounted turn indicators are functional. The Barracuda script emblem is on the fender over the iconic Formula S plate and 14-inch body matched steel wheels and dog dish hubcaps are wrapped in 205/70R14 tires with a mid2024 date code. We cast our net rearward and catch the sharply sloping rear window, an objectively beautiful design when viewing the profile of the car. The tail is encircled by polished trim that continues around the small tail lights augmented by the band of red that connects them, perfectly coordinated with the side racing stripes. Imperfections include paint that is not perfectly smooth on the hood and other horizontal surfaces, paint runs under the tail light section and rear valance, and uneven filler surrounding the exhaust cutouts.  Interior Simple red door cards include a vinyl panel under the dark red metal header and bottom section, contrasting the outer white. Inside, the red vinyl bucket seats look like they left the Hamtramck, Michigan plant yesterday, tall and wearing headrests and the back bench matches the condition. A wood rimmed three spoke steering wheel offers itself to the driver leading to an instrument cluster that shows some age with slight discoloration but benefits from a central tachometer flanked by the 150 mph speedometer and condition gauges. The center dash area contains the A/C panel and AM radio. On the open floor and stunning red loop carpet, you'll find a tall Hurst shifter rising from the transmission tunnel. Barracuda embroidered red carpet mats add a nice touch and help protect the base carpet while the red headliner is high and tight. The trunk floor is clean and protected by a vinyl plaid mat.  Drivetrain Tucked in the engine bay is a 340ci V8 with a 4-barrel carburetor, red valve covers, and a brake power booster. It's backed by an A833 4-speed manual transmission that routes power to the 8 ¾ rear with 3.55 gears and SureGrip. The engine also features a newer water pump, fuel pump, and sending unit, as well as the usual tune up items.  Undercarriage We've got clean conditions underneath with minimal surface rust and a dry environment. The dual exhaust travels through Xlerator mufflers on their way to square tips that fit the valance. As noted, power assisted brakes are onboard with front disc and rear drums and suspension consists of torsion bar up front and leaf springs in the back.  Drive-Ability A decent greenhouse welcomes occupants into the red room that is the cabin and the 340 comes to life with a prime of the carb and a turn of the key. Factory Formula S Barracuda's were rated at 275 horsepower and we don't have a dyno, but can attest