Image of 1972 Plymouth Barracuda, sourced from www.volocars.com , Image Link.

Engine Specifications
Engine:	225 cu in (3.7 L) I6, 318 cu in (5.2 L) V8, 340 cu in (5.6 L) V8, 383 cu in (6.3 L) V8, 426 cu in (7.0 L) Hemi V8, 440 cu in (7.2 L) V8
Displacement:	225-440 cu in (3.7-7.2 L)
Horsepower:	110-425 hp
Torque:	340-490 lb-ft
Compression Ratio:	8.4:1 - 10.25:1
Ignition System:	Electronic Ignition
Cooling System:	Liquid-cooled
Performance Specifications
0-60 Time:	5.6 - 6.2 seconds
1/4 Mile Time:	13.4 - 14.0 seconds
Top Speed:	118 - 127 mph
Transmission and Drive
Drive Type:	Rear-wheel drive
Transmission Type:	3-speed manual, 4-speed manual, 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic
Fuel and Efficiency
Fuel System Type:	Carburetor
MPG:	10-15 mpg
Dimensions and Brakes
Brakes:	Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes
Wheelbase:	108.0 in
Weight:	3,220 - 3,720 lbs

1972 Plymouth Barracuda: A Legend Reborn

With the roar of its engine and a silhouette that turned heads, the 1972 Plymouth Barracuda carved its name into automotive history. Born from the fervor of American muscle car culture, this iconic machine was manufactured by the Plymouth division of Chrysler Corporation. It emerged as a fierce contender in a time when horsepower and style ruled the streets. A standout fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that the '72 Barracuda was one of the few muscle cars to persist through the early 70s despite stringent emission regulations, marking it as a resilient piece of engineering.

Design and Innovation

The 1972 Barracuda's exterior styling was a testament to American muscle aesthetics, with its long hood, short deck profile, and aggressive stance. The interior was no less impressive, featuring high-quality materials for its era and a driver-focused cockpit that prioritized functionality and comfort. Technologically, it boasted advancements like electronic ignition, which was a cutting-edge feature at the time. Color options ranged from subtle to vibrant, with hues like "Basin Street Blue" and "Moulin Rouge" catching buyers' attention. Among body styles, the hardtop coupe with its optional 'Cuda package remains an emblematic image of raw American performance.

Historical Significance

The Barracuda's impact on automotive design was profound; it helped define what a pony car should be—powerful, stylish, and attainable. It stood out with its unique grille and redesigned taillights compared to earlier models, setting design trends that would be echoed in future muscle cars. Its legacy is evident in modern vehicles that still draw inspiration from the Barracuda's bold lines and performance-driven ethos.

Performance and Handling

Underneath the hood lay the heart of this beast—a range of engines with the 340 cubic-inch V8 being highly sought after for its balance of performance and reliability. While top speed figures hovered around 125 mph, it could sprint from 0-60 mph in a respectable 7 seconds. The ride was firm yet manageable; drivers often praised the Barracuda for its ability to handle both straight-line acceleration and challenging curves with poise. The symphony of its V8 still resonates with car enthusiasts who crave that authentic muscle car rumble.

Ownership Experience

The 1972 Plymouth Barracuda found its place on both city streets and drag strips alike. As a daily driver, it offered excitement unmatched by more pedestrian vehicles of its time. In terms of maintenance, while some components are rarer now, the simplicity of its design made repairs straightforward for those familiar with muscle cars. Reliability was typical for its era—robust in some respects but requiring regular attention to keep in prime condition.

Fun Facts

Among trivia that fans cherish is that certain '72 Barracudas were equipped with the formidable "Six Pack" setup—three two-barrel carburetors atop a performance engine—a rarity that commands attention among collectors. Celebrity ownerships included stars like Kevin Hart, adding to its allure. While not without criticisms—such as less-than-ideal fuel economy—the Barracuda's positives far outweighed these concerns for most enthusiasts.

Collector's Information

Today's collector market sees the 1972 Plymouth Barracuda as a prized asset, with values ranging broadly from $30,000 for models in decent condition to well over $100,000 for pristine or rare variants. Production numbers were lower than previous years due to changing market trends, making surviving examples less common and more desirable. Price trends suggest an appreciation in value as nostalgia for classic muscle cars continues to grow among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Conclusion

The 1972 Plymouth Barracuda stands as a monument to an era when power and presence were paramount. It remains not only a symbol of automotive passion but also a tangible piece of history that continues to captivate hearts and minds across generations. For those who have had the pleasure of owning or driving one, it represents an indelible chapter in their motoring lives—a chapter written in burnt rubber and echoing exhaust notes.