Plymouth Barracuda (1st generation)
The original pony car that beat the Mustang to market by two weeks.
- Power
- 145 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.0 s
- Top speed
- 95 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$28k
About the Plymouth Barracuda
Launched on 1 April 1964, the Plymouth Barracuda arrived just 16 days before the Ford Mustang, technically making it the first 'pony car'. Based on the compact Valiant A-body platform, it was distinguished by its massive 14.4-square-foot wraparound rear window—the largest single piece of glass ever fitted to a production car at the time. While the 225 cubic-inch 'Slant-6' engine provided reliable, frugal transportation, it lacked the sporting image of its V8 siblings. Today, these first-generation cars are appreciated for their unique fastback styling and practical folding rear seats, though they remain overshadowed by the later E-body muscle cars.
Plymouth Barracuda specs
The Plymouth Barracuda produces 145 bhp (108 kW) and 292 Nm (215 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.0 seconds and has a top speed of 95 mph (153 km/h).
| Make | Plymouth |
|---|---|
| Model | Barracuda |
| Generation | First generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 3.7 |
| Years | 1964–1966 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 23,443 built |
| Original price | About $2,500 when new |
| Engine | 3.7-litre 'Slant-6' inline-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,687 cc (3.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 145 bhp (108 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 292 Nm (215 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 14.0 s |
| Top speed | 95 mph (153 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,243 kg (2,740 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 117 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Plymouth Barracuda worth?
A typical Plymouth Barracuda is estimated to be worth $8,500 – $28,000 (about £6,300 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Plymouth Barracuda rarity in CarSpot
The Plymouth Barracuda is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 41 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Plymouth Barracuda fun facts
- The Barracuda was almost named the 'Plymouth Panda', a suggestion that was fortunately vetoed by designers.
- Its massive rear window was a collaboration between Chrysler and Pittsburgh Plate Glass (PPG).
- The 1964 model was the final year for Chrysler's famous push-button control for the TorqueFlite automatic transmission.
