Written by independent automotive journalist Roger C. Johnson

Decked out in Vitamin C Orange and sporting a power plant painted HEMI Orange, this 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda (Lot #1341) made a striking appearance on the Scottsdale auction block in January.

Let’s face it. The 1970 Plymouth HEMI ’Cuda is the ultimate muscle car. We know the ’71 often commands higher prices because of its lower production numbers, and it is the last year the Street HEMI was offered. But the 1970 model was the first of its kind for Chrysler, and would go on to write history with its clean design ‒ not to mention its ability to accept the ultimate muscle car power plant. Chrysler gave its performance models from 1970-74 – typically a 340, 360, 383, 440 and HEMI – the model designation Barracuda Sport. A car with the BS designation in the VIN became commonly referred to simply as a ’Cuda, which was already the accepted term on the street for any hot Barracuda back then.

The first E-body Barracuda was created from the onset to accommodate any and all engines the corporation offered. That was really their way of saying they wanted a Street HEMI-powered pony car on road right that minute. It didn’t hurt the cause that the car’s lines were absolutely striking. Virgil Exner himself referred to the design style as “Italian simplicity.” It proves that clean, smooth pen strokes never age and they don’t go out of fashion. That’s why this car is as beautiful now as it was in 1970.

The new E-body Barracuda still carried the same 108-inch wheelbase as the A-body versions but was lower and wider than those cars. It also weighed more, but that was handily offset with seriously increased horsepower and torque available when the right boxes were checked on the order form.

The Street HEMI’s outstanding performance potential was recognized immediately by the magazines of the day. Word spread quickly, and a reputation was established just as fast. With the HEMI ’Cuda’s unveiling to the press, the reaction was very much like what happened just recently when the Dodge Hellcat hit the scene. It’s also interesting to note that in today’s Stock Appearing drag racing events these Street HEMI-powered Mopars are running just as fast, or faster, than that brand-new Hellcat with its modern tires and wheels.

This wonderfully restored 1970 Plymouth HEMI ’Cuda (Lot #1341) has its original engine and 4-speed transmission. Its third owner assigned the verification chores to Mopar savant Galen Govier, who authenticated and documented the vehicle.

Decked out in Vitamin C Orange and sporting a power plant painted HEMI Orange, this particular combination adds even more exclusivity to an already outstanding collectable. A nicely contrasting black vinyl roof and black interior set off the combination perfectly. Even though the fabulous-looking Shaker Hood scoop could be had with other high-performance E-bodies, the argent silver version on the HEMI cars is the ideal crown for the regal yet notorious King-Kong engine. From any point of view, especially from the driver’s seat, that scoop lets everyone know something very special is going on right beneath it.

It is often said that when it comes to Street HEMI-powered Mopars, there are only two kinds of people in the entire world: those who have one and those who want one. If that’s the case, the new owner must be thrilled with this wonderful HEMI-powered, pistol-gripped Barracuda. From the moment he gets in and starts it up, he must realize one thing instantly. When compared to this high-profile Vitamin C Orange HEMI ’Cuda, all other cars are nothing more than apples.

– Written by independent automotive journalist Roger C. Johnson

For the sale price of this vehicle, click HERE.