FYI: An abandoned 1968 Plymouth Barracuda Fastback, discovered in Rosemount, Minnesota, sparks excitement and intrigue among classic car enthusiasts, but disappointments arise upon closer inspection.
In a quiet corner of Rosemount, Minnesota, a dusty relic waited to tell its story. It was a 1968 Plymouth Barracuda Fastback, advertised as a “muscle car gem” complete with a legendary “392 HEMI” engine. Such an alluring description sent a car enthusiast racing towards the sale, hopeful of acquiring a rare classic that could be the equivalent of a Picasso hidden in plain sight.
Plymouth’s Legacy
The Plymouth brand, established in 1928 by Walter Chrysler, has its roots entrenched in producing innovative and beloved automobiles. Once headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan, the brand has been inactive for years. Yet, its vehicles continue to haunt and thrill collectors and enthusiasts alike, especially when a hidden gem like this Barracuda emerges.
Hemi Dream or Disappointment?
Listed for an enticing $14,500, the Barracuda carried the allure of a golden ticket for muscle car aficionados. The lure was so strong that sellers from across continents showed keen interest in the vehicle, showing its reach had travelled far beyond Minnesota’s borders. But the drama began unfolding soon after the potential buyer arrived.
Under the hood, the “Hemi” was indeed present but not as advertised. Instead of the 392 cubic-inch engine, it boasted a 354 cubic inches engine—a far cry from the crown jewel described. Locked up for years, the engine was a challenging project with a seized bell housing and a non-turning mechanism. Enthusiastic hopes slowly dimmed as reality laid its heavy hand on the prospective buyer.
Exploring the 354 HEMI
Upon expert inspection using a borescope, the engine’s internal components, although rusty, appeared salvageable, offering a silver lining amid the disappointment. Interior components like bucket seats and console shifters retained more life than expected. However, with tires turned to dust and a tangled web of legal issues due to incomplete documentation, the challenges of restoring this beauty multiplied.
Despite the hiccups, the buyer contemplated resurrecting the car’s potential through restoration of its body and drivetrain. However, the reality of its condition—a project not worth the hefty price tag—became glaringly apparent.
The 354 HEMI engine, renowned for its power, presented specifications that were enticing on paper. It had a displacement of 353.1 cubic inches and boasted horsepower ranging from 340 to 355 horsepower; yet, the real challenge lay in reviving those dormant capabilities.
Final Thoughts
Fascination with the 1968 Plymouth Barracuda Fastback underscores the mystique of classic muscle cars while revealing the potential pitfalls for collectors. The experience of encountering this automotive icon emphasizes the importance of due diligence. Checking engine numbers, arming oneself with the right tools, and setting realistic expectations are essential steps in pursuing such treasures.
Ultimately, the Barracuda found its next home, relisted at a revised price of $10,000, although whether it was truly sold remains a mystery. For enthusiasts, this serves as an important lesson in managing expectations when hunting for barn finds.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
