Plymouth’s third-generation Barracuda, introduced for the 1970 model year, would continue into 1974. Plymouth initially offered three trim levels for the Barracuda: the base Barracuda, the luxurious Barracuda Gran Coupe, and the high performance ‘Cuda. Midway through the 1970 model year, Plymouth added the Barracuda Coupe trim between the base and Gran Coupe. Of all the trim options, only the ‘Cuda offered the 440 Super Commando engine.
Plymouth carried the sporty ‘Cuda trim option into 1970 from its introduction in 1969. However, the all-new third-gen design featured a wider engine compartment capable of accepting Plymouth’s massive 440 Super Commando powerplant. While the oversized 440 V8 fit in the space, the increased power required modifications to the suspension and frame.
The 440 Super Commando engine option gained 40 horsepower over the ‘Cuda’s base 383 V8. Plymouth removed the 440 Super Commando from the 1971 ‘Cuda engine options, but savvy buyers could still special order it. By 1972, the 440 Super Commando was gone, and other Cuda engines were de-tuned thanks to government mandates and rising automobile insurance rates.
