In the heat of the 1960s’ Super Stock wars, manufacturers like Chrysler emerged with bigger and bolder weapons. In 1968, they produced around 100 factory-built race cars, plucked straight from the assembly line and transformed by Hurst into formidable contenders. These machines, roughly 50 Dodge Darts and 50 Plymouth Barracudas, boasted mighty Hemi engines and were built with one purpose: to dominate the drag strip.
A Storied Past
This particular 1968 Plymouth Barracuda is one of those original, legendary race cars. Its VIN, marked with the BO29 code, signifies its special pedigree. The car has been with its current owner since 1977, racing actively until 1987. After its retirement from competitive racing, it went into storage, only to be occasionally brought out for car shows. Notably, it now packs a replacement 426 Hemi engine under the hood.
Stripped for Speed
These race cars were meticulously crafted for lightweight performance, aiming to stay below the 3,000-pound mark. To achieve this, features like window roll-up mechanisms were eliminated, and certain parts were even acid-dipped to shed excess weight. Additionally, lightweight van seats, fiberglass front fenders, and a fiberglass hood further shaved off pounds.
But the story doesn’t end there. This Barracuda boasts a remarkable racing history, including a 1974 NHRA national record with a staggering 10.17 E.T. and a crowning achievement: winning the NHRA SS/AA class championship at Indy in 1983. The car’s rich history is meticulously documented and included in ‘Public Documents,’ serving as a treasure trove for racing enthusiasts.
Under the Hood
While the current 426 Hemi engine isn’t the original one used for competition, it serves its purpose perfectly for nostalgic purposes. It features a cross-ram intake with dual Holley carburetors and Hooker headers. This ferocious powerplant is paired with a tough 727 TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission, featuring a high-performance torque converter and a Hurst Auto Stick II shifter for ultimate control.
The relentless drive to the rear wheels is delivered through a Dana 60 rear axle with a spool and aggressive 5.57 gears, along with M&W axle shafts. For enhanced handling and stability, the car is equipped with an S&W back-half chassis, a four-link suspension, and wheelie bars. Additionally, it boasts a racing front suspension, front disc brakes, a roll cage, and a Harwood fuel cell.
Rounding out the package are Cragar wheels with skinny front tires and Firestone slicks in the rear, ensuring optimal grip on the track.
A Spartan Interior
Stepping inside the car, the focus is purely on racing functionality. Traditional seats are replaced with racing seats, and the rear passenger area is entirely removed. The driver is presented with a cluster of vintage gauges, including a prominently mounted cable-driven tachometer on the dashboard. The car’s overall condition appears exceptional, with no reported body damage or significant interior wear.
Summary
This 1968 Plymouth Barracuda BO29 Super Stock Race Car is a true survivor, one of only 50 ever built. It boasts a remarkable racing history spanning the late 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle.
Source: hemmings.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
