The Plymouth Barracuda III, specifically the variant equipped with the 6.3-liter (383.05 cubic inch) V8 engine producing 335 horsepower, represents a pivotal moment in the muscle car era. Produced solely for the 1970 model year, this iteration of the Barracuda marked a significant departure from its earlier, more compact predecessors. It was built on the new-for-1970 E-body platform, shared with the Dodge Challenger, and aimed to compete directly with the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. This particular engine and transmission combination occupied a sweet spot in the Barracuda lineup, offering substantial performance without the higher price tag of the even more potent 426 Hemi or 440 Magnum options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Plymouth |
| Model | Barracuda |
| Generation | Barracuda III |
| Type (Engine) | 6.3 V8 (335 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1970 |
| End of production | 1970 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 335 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 576 Nm @ 3400 rpm / 424.84 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B |
| Engine displacement | 6277 cm3 / 383.05 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 108 mm / 4.25 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.7 mm / 3.37 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l / 4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 167 l / 5.9 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l / 19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal |
| Length | 4742 mm / 186.69 in. |
| Width | 1902 mm / 74.88 in. |
| Height | 1293 mm / 50.91 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2743 mm / 107.99 in. |
| Front track | 1516 mm / 59.69 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1542 mm / 60.71 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Drum, 279.4×76.2 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 279.4×63.5 mm |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 14; 7J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Barracuda variant was the Chrysler B engine, specifically the 383 cubic inch (6.3-liter) V8. Designated with the ‘B’ engine code, it featured a cast iron block and cylinder heads. The 335 horsepower output was achieved through a four-barrel carburetor, likely a Carter Thermo-Quad, and a relatively conservative 9.5:1 compression ratio. The engine utilized an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, sending power rearward. The standard transmission for this configuration was a three-speed manual, though a Torqueflite A727 automatic transmission was a popular option. The automatic, while slightly diminishing acceleration, offered a more relaxed driving experience, appealing to a broader range of buyers.
Driving Characteristics
The 1970 Barracuda III 383 offered a compelling blend of performance and usability. While not as brutally fast as the Hemi or 440 models, the 335 hp V8 provided ample power for spirited driving and comfortable highway cruising. The three-speed manual transmission offered precise control, while the optional automatic provided smooth shifts. The rear-wheel-drive configuration and relatively lightweight construction (compared to the larger-engined variants) contributed to a balanced feel. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the low 6-second range, making it a formidable performer for its time. The 383’s torque curve was broad, providing strong pull throughout the rev range, making it a versatile engine for both city and highway driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Barracuda III offered a range of trim levels, with the 383-equipped models generally falling into the mid-range. Standard features included a vinyl interior, basic instrumentation, and a comfortable driving position. Optional extras were plentiful, including upgraded upholstery (cloth or leather), a console, bucket seats, a rally instrument cluster, and various exterior trim packages. The ‘Cuda’ package, while often associated with the higher-performance engines, could also be ordered with the 383, adding a sporty aesthetic with hood pins, a blacked-out grille, and distinctive striping. Air conditioning, power steering, and power brakes were also available as options, enhancing the car’s comfort and convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The Barracuda III utilized a robust chassis featuring independent torsion bar suspension in the front and a leaf spring suspension in the rear. A transverse stabilizer bar was standard on both axles, helping to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by drum brakes on all four wheels, though disc brakes were not available even as an option. While adequate for the car’s weight and performance, the drum brakes were a point of criticism compared to the disc brakes offered on some competitors. Steering was accomplished via a cone worm and recirculating ball system, providing reasonably precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1970 Barracuda III 383 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and strong performance. Compared to the more expensive Hemi and 440 models, the 383 offered a more affordable entry point into the Barracuda lineup without sacrificing too much performance. Against competitors like the Mustang and Camaro, the Barracuda 383 held its own, offering a unique blend of style and power. Fuel economy, however, was predictably poor, averaging around 15 mpg in real-world driving. Reliability was generally good, though the carburetor required periodic adjustment and maintenance.
Legacy
Today, the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda III 383 is a highly sought-after classic muscle car. While not as valuable as the Hemi or 440 versions, it represents a more attainable entry point into the E-body market. The 383 engine is known for its durability and relative ease of maintenance, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples command respectable prices, and the car remains a popular choice for restoration projects. The 1970 Barracuda III, in all its variants, cemented Plymouth’s reputation as a builder of powerful and stylish muscle cars, leaving a lasting legacy in automotive history.
