The 1971 Plymouth Barracuda Custom Convertible stands as a pinnacle of the E-body era, now reimagined through a comprehensive two-year rotisserie build. Executed by Dave Rae of DB Restorations and DT Classic Auto, this project blends the legendary aggression of the early seventies with modern mechanical sophistication. Crossing the block at Glendale 2026, the vehicle represents a meticulous fusion of high-impact aesthetics and contemporary engineering. It serves as a definitive example of how a classic silhouette can be elevated into a high-performance pro-touring machine without losing its original muscle car identity.
High Impact TorRed Visuals and Pro Touring Stance
The exterior is finished in its original factory TorRed paint, which has been expertly cut and buffed to a mirror finish. Iconic Hemi billboard graphics stretch across the rear quarters, while an original shaker hood with Ring Brothers hinges dominates the front profile. This Barracuda sits on YearOne custom-built 17-inch cast aluminum Rallye wheels wrapped in Continental Extreme Contact tires, providing a modern contact patch. Functional details like the factory rear adjustable spoiler and tinted glass complement the aggressive stance provided by the lowered Viking coilover suspension.
Bespoke Cabin Craftsmanship and Digital Integration
The interior is a study in custom luxury, featuring a cabin reworked by Burton Custom Interiors with black cloth inserts and red contrast stitching. A Lecarra steering wheel and the original center console maintain the period feel, while Dakota Digital gauges in the Rallye dash provide modern accuracy. Convenience is significantly upgraded through a Nu-Relics power windows kit, Classic Auto Air conditioning, and a RetroSound Bluetooth system. These modifications create a driver-centric environment that offers modern comfort while respecting the classic layout that made the 1971 model a showroom favorite.
Gen 3 Hemi Power and Precision Six Speed Gearbox
Motivation comes from a new 392 CI Gen 3 Hemi crate engine from Roseville Moparts, featuring aluminum cylinder heads and a 10.9:1 compression ratio. While UK or European output figures are not available, North American factory benchmarks suggest high-performance capability delivered through a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission. The powertrain is supported by custom long-tube headers and a 2 1/2-inch exhaust with electronic cutouts for an adjustable acoustic signature. Power is managed by a Moser Engineering 8 3/4 rear end with 3.55 gears and an Auburn Sure Grip limited-slip differential.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 392 CI Gen 3 Hemi V-8 |
| Transmission | Tremec 6-Speed Manual |
| Chassis/Platform | Plymouth E-Body (Pro-Touring Modified) |
| Suspension & Braking | Hardware Detail |
| Front Suspension | RMS AlterKtion / Viking Coilovers |
| Rear Suspension | RMS 4-Link / Viking Coilovers |
| Brakes | Wilwood 4-Wheel Disc / 4-Piston Calipers |
E-Body Rarity Meets Modern Pro-Touring Demand
The 1971 model year is particularly desirable as it was the only year featuring the quad-headlamp front end and fender gills. In the current market, authentic convertibles are exceptionally rare, often commanding significant premiums over their hardtop counterparts. This custom build targets a specific segment of collectors who value turn-key reliability and modern handling over stock original components. While a numbers-matching Hemi convertible might reach several million dollars, high-end pro-touring builds like this offer a more usable alternative that competes directly with modern performance cars.
Reliable Modern Engineering for the Classic Enthusiast
Ownership of this custom Barracuda is defined by the peace of mind provided by modern crate engine reliability and a reinforced chassis. The addition of Hotchkis subframe connectors and an RMS AlterKtion front end transforms the flexible E-body into a rigid, predictable platform for spirited use. Components like the Icebox Performance radiator and Wilwood braking system ensure the car can handle modern traffic and thermal loads without issue. This build represents a strategic investment in a vehicle that is as capable on a cross-country tour as it is on the local show circuit.
A Seamless Blend of Mopar Tradition and Modern Grunt
This 1971 Plymouth Barracuda Custom Convertible is more than just a restoration; it is a mechanical evolution of a legendary American muscle icon. With its potent Gen 3 Hemi, precise six-speed gearbox, and stunning TorRed finish, it stands as a premier offering for the Glendale 2026 auction.
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Source: mecum.com
