Changes for the last of this generation of Barracudas were cosmetically minor. The side light markers were rectangular instead of round, the grill was updated and the taillights were changed. The real news was under the hood. The engineers a Plymouth found a way to stuff a 440ci big block between the fenders. Plymouth also officially introduced the ‘Cuda in 1969. The ‘Cuda was a car for the straight line racer and it was available with a 340ci, 383ci or the 440ci engines. The Formula “S” returned for the last time and it remained the sports car and was available with the 340ci and the 383ci. Unlike the ‘Cuda, the Formula “S” was available in the convertible.
The ‘Cuda package consisted of a four speed transmission, dual exhausts with chrome tips and the firmer Rallye suspension. Appearance upgrades included simulated hood scoops, a black grill, black accent stripes on the hood and lower body. Black stickers that announced the presence of a “Cuda 340” or “Cuda 383” were placed on the hood.
The 1969 Plymouth Barracuda was marketed as a gentleman’s sports car. However, a better description would have been a caveman’s club. The car, especially when matched with the new 440ci big block, was a brut. It offered amazing performance in the straight line but none of the culture comforts a gentleman would demand. Air conditioning, power breaks, disk brakes and even a manual transmission was not available because of space restrictions under the hood. Driving the car was a workout to say the least. The 440 Cuda could go from 0-60 in 5.6 seconds and a ¼ mile took 13.89 seconds. The car was fast.
The 340 was no slacker either. It could make it to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds and finish the ¼ mile in around 14 seconds.
