1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda

Buzz

©2007 Publications International, Ltd. The 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda was the most powerful iteration of the redesigned Barracuda. Out of 17,242 'Cudas produced that year, only 652 hardtops and 14 convertibles were equipped with the Hemi engine. These models are now some of the most sought-after and valuable muscle cars among collectors. Check out more images of classic muscle cars.

While Dodge embraced bold styling elements for its new model, Plymouth opted for a more streamlined and understated design. The Barracuda, though sleek in appearance, packed a serious punch with the right engine. Among muscle cars, the 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda stood out as the fiercest of them all.

Muscle Car Image Gallery

The performance-oriented 'Cudas came with five powerful V-8 engine options, ranging from the agile 275-bhp 340 and the versatile 335-bhp 383, to the commanding 375-bhp four-barrel 440 and the ferocious 390-bhp 440+6. Topping the lineup was the relentless 425-bhp 426 Hemi.

Plymouth designed the suspension of the 440 and Hemi 'Cudas specifically to handle the intense power of their engines. These models lacked a rear stabilizer bar, but their rear leaf springs were asymmetrical—five on the right and six on the left—with carefully selected thicknesses to balance tire loads during hard launches. Wheel hop was minimal, but aggressive starts could still cause the tires (F70x14s on 440s, F60x15s on Hemis) to burn out in a cloud of smoke.

The Barracuda featured a wheelbase two inches shorter than the Challenger, despite sharing the same body dimensions. The standard 'Cuda hood had faux intakes, but the functional shaker scoop came standard with the Hemi and was a $97 upgrade for other models. For 1970, Mopar equipped the Hemi with hydraulic lifters, making it easier to maintain and, according to some testers, improving low-end power. While some praised the Hemi's handling, others found it overly front-heavy. Everyone agreed that opting for the 11.3-inch front disc brakes was a wise choice. But which 'Cuda was the fastest?

The 440+6, priced at $250, was a more affordable option compared to the $871 Hemi. Both engines came with a choice of a Hurst pistol-grip four-speed or Slap-Stik TorqueFlite transmission and a heavy-duty Dana axle. Each had its quirks, making even a trip to the grocery store an adventure: the six-barrel's front and rear carburetors engaged abruptly, while the Hemi's stiff throttle could unexpectedly open all eight barrels at once.

The 440+6 was simpler to tune compared to the Hemi and could keep pace with it up to around 70 mph. This performance might suffice for stoplight races, but in high-stakes situations, the race-proven 426 Hemi truly shined. This engine didn’t gain its legendary status by chance—it earned it through sheer performance.

Return to the Classic Muscle Cars Library.

For more fascinating details on muscle cars, explore:

Plymouth muscle cars ranged from imaginative to intimidating—often blending both traits in a single model. Discover profiles, photos, and specifications of these iconic vehicles.
Muscle cars came in a variety of forms and sizes. Explore features on over 100 muscle cars, complete with photos and detailed specifications for each.
Muscle cars forged a unique culture. Dive deeper into their history and mechanics by reading How Muscle Cars Work.

Browse these profiles of muscle cars, featuring photos and specifications for each model:

The 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator, with its bold stripes and spoiler, emerged from the shadow of the Mustang to carve its own legacy.
Make way for the legendary 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Hemi, one of the most formidable muscle cars ever built.
The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am seamlessly blended the agility of a sports car with the raw power of a muscle car.
The rare and ferocious 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 was defined by its all-aluminum, race-proven V-8 engine.

For more information on related cars, check out these articles:

The engine is the heart of a muscle car, giving it its bold character. To understand everything about car engines, explore How Car Engines Work.
Horsepower is the lifeblood of muscle cars—but what exactly is it? Find out in How Horsepower Works.
NASCAR race cars embody the essence of muscle car power. Discover what makes these high-performance machines tick in How NASCAR Race Cars Work.
Considering purchasing a 2007 muscle car or another vehicle? Check out Consumer Guide Automotive's New-Car Reviews, Prices, and Information.

The 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda

Specifications

Wheelbase, inches: 108.0

Weight, lbs: 3,900

Number built: 666

Base price: $5,400

Standard Engine

Type: ohv V-8

Displacement, cid: 426

Fuel system: 2 x 4bbl.

Compression ratio: 10.25:1

Horsepower @ rpm: 425 @ 5000