Imagine stumbling upon a hidden treasure trove of automotive history, tucked away in a humble Missouri barn. But here's where it gets controversial—these aren't just any cars; they're rare, battered relics from the golden era of muscle cars, sparking debates about whether they're worth saving or better left to rust.
A few weeks ago, I shared the story of a massive barn (https://www.autoevolution.com/news/big-barn-opens-up-to-reveal-stash-of-rare-1970-plymouth-cudas-1971-challenger-266108.html) that housed a collection of 1970 Plymouth Cudas and a 1971 Dodge Challenger, meticulously documented by Ryan Brutt of YouTube's Auto Archaeology. Little did we know, the owner had a second barn—a veritable time capsule of even more rare Mopars. Ryan’s latest video takes us on a journey through this automotive graveyard, where history and potential collide.
The barn is a treasure trove of Cudas and Challengers, though time and neglect have taken their toll. These cars, rescued primarily from junkyards, are far from showroom condition, but their rarity is undeniable. The video opens with a 1970 Plymouth Cuda convertible—not a Hemi, but still a rare gem thanks to its soft top. Plymouth produced nearly 49,000 Barracudas in 1970, yet only 2,501 were convertibles. This particular Cuda is one of just 548 high-performance models, equipped with a 383-cubic-inch (6.3-liter) V8 and a four-speed manual transmission—a combination found in only 68 units.
And this is the part most people miss—despite its rough condition, this Cuda’s rarity makes it a fascinating paradox. Is it worth restoring after nearly 50 years of neglect, or should it remain a barn-find relic? The owner rescued it from the crusher in 1978, but its future remains uncertain.
Next up is an AAR Cuda, a model developed to homologate the car for the SCCA Trans-Am series. With only 2,724 units produced in 1970, this example is one of 1,604 automatics, finished in the eye-catching Sassy Grass green. Though incomplete and in poor shape, its exclusivity makes it a desirable find.
The third Cuda in the barn packs even more punch: a 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) Six-Barrel V8, rated at 390 horsepower. Plymouth built just 1,784 of these, with only 919 featuring the four-speed manual gearbox. Originally painted in DY3 Yellow Gold, this Cuda is a sleeper, save for its Shaker hood. Like its barnmates, it’s incomplete and rough, but its potential is undeniable.
The final gem is a 1970 Dodge Challenger Six-Pack, one of 2,035 produced. This Plum Crazy beauty, with a white vinyl top and interior, is among the most sought-after color combinations. While its transmission type remains a mystery, its rarity and condition suggest it could be a prime candidate for restoration—assuming it hasn’t already found a new owner.
But here’s the burning question: Should these cars be restored to their former glory, or preserved as time capsules of their era? Let’s debate it in the comments. And if you enjoyed this deep dive into automotive history, follow us (https://profile.google.com/cp/Cg0vZy8xMXkxcXk1ODR4) for more stories that bring the past roaring back to life.
